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Alaska SeaLife Center

Aviculturist 1

Alaska SeaLife Center, Seward, Alaska, United States, 99664

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Alaska SeaLife Center provided pay range This range is provided by Alaska SeaLife Center. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range $18.50/hr - $20.00/hr

Summary This position is responsible for the handling, training, and welfare of the avian collection under the supervision of the Avian Curator at the Alaska SeaLife Center. The role supports the Center’s mission by contributing to data collection and research initiatives aligned with institutional priorities. This will include participation in implementing best practices for animal welfare, enrichment, behavioral observations, and public interpretation within a zoological and research-based environment. Opportunities for cross-training with other husbandry and life sciences departments may be included as operational needs require.

Education/Training Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, Biology, Zoology, or related field preferred.

One to two years captive avian experience. Experience with aquatic avian species preferred. AZA experience preferred.

Open water SCUBA certification or the commitment to become certified required.

Avian Animal Care and Wellbeing:

Under the guidance of division supervisors and the Avian Curator, this position supports the management, care, exhibition, and study of the resident avian collection including seabirds and waterfowl. This position may participate in the daily husbandry care and maintenance of rehabilitation and transient (short term) animals as needed.

Compliance and Documentation:

Ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements, including USDA- APHIS and AZA accreditation standards.

Public Engagement and Education:

Support the Center’s public education programs by providing input on animal care practices and accuracy in species science and natural history. Serve as an ambassador for ASLC’s mission in conservation and animal welfare, interacting with visitors and partner organizations. Be a supportive role between animal care staff and the learning and engagement teams to ensure accurate information and help to enhance the guest experience.

Team-based collaboration:

Works collaboratively to fulfill the goals of the Life Sciences department between, animal care, and veterinarian teams.

Research:

Participate in research activities conducted under IACUC oversight, adhering strictly to ethical, regulatory, and procedural requirements. Collect and manage biological, behavioral, and environmental data with accuracy and attention to detail.

Enrichment:

Assists the Avian Curator in the design and implementation of animal enrichment programs and habitat improvements to ensure optimal animal welfare for both minds, bodies, and social dynamics appropriate for the marine mammal collection. Assist in documenting and quantifying enrichment data and summarizing information, as well as creating novel devices with approval from Avian Curator.

Assist in daily animal diet preparations, water quality testing, and routine cleaning of animal exhibits, holding pools, food preparation facilities and work areas.

Learn and use principles of operant conditioning to maintain and train behaviors associated with research and husbandry goals.

Assists with mentorship and leadership of interns, volunteers, and seasonal staff including supervision and training.

Under direction of the Avian Curator, assist research staff in facilitation of research projects and the collection of data samples, etc.

Becomes familiar with routine for animal care, food preparation, and cleaning, including proper maintenance and sterilization of areas and equipment.

Maintains written and computer-based records. Demonstrates excellent communication skills including the ability to relay information concisely and accurately, direct tasks, give and receive feedback, and teach area routine skills effectively.

Able to lead day-to-day routines safely and effectively. Serves as Avian shift lead as needed.

Unloads periodic deliveries of frozen food and maintains freezer space and food storage areas.

Participates in ASLC dive team operations including the underwater maintenance and cleaning of the habitats.

Cross trains with other husbandry staff for efficient use of staff resources as needed.

Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs.

Performs other related duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.

Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, goodwill, cooperation, and providing high standards of service

Other Skills and Abilities

Skills in written and verbal communication.

Experience giving public presentations and/or working with various age groups in an educational setting.

Ability to understand and interpret research in progress and marine science topics, follow instructions, and work independently.

Ability to be organized, self-motivated, and possess a strong desire to see the completion of projects.

Exceptional time management/organizational skills; Experience with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to perform moderate to strenuous physical activity. Ability to swim, see and hear; walk while carrying objects in both hands; twist, bend, kneel, stand, and crouch for extended periods of time; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; climb stairs and ladders; and sit for periods of time. Must be able to lift and move 50lbs, run short distances if required, and have a good sense of balance.

Ability to work around small and large groups of people. Ability to work safely with and around large, wild animals. Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed.

Full Time with Benefits

Start Date: ASAP

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and letter of recommendations.

Seniority level Entry level

Employment type Full-time

Job function Other

Industries Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos

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