Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Bird Care Specialist (Avian, Part-Time)
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Jacksonville, Florida, United States, 32290
Join to apply for the
Bird Care Specialist (Avian, Part-Time)
role at
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens
5 days ago – be among the first 25 applicants
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens provided pay range This range is provided by Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range $17.00/hr - $21.00/hr
Application deadline: Monday, 19 January 2026
and/or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. We reserve the right to close
the posting early
if a well-qualified candidate pool has been established.
Early submission is encouraged.
Please ensure that your application highlights your experience and qualifications as they relate to the responsibilities of this role.
Avian Enthusiast Wanted! Are you ready to take your passion for birds to new heights? We are seeking an exceptional individual with solid observational and record‑keeping skills, an outstanding safety record, and the ability to engage seamlessly with both guests and fellow team members.
Bird Care Specialist (Part-Time)
to join our dedicated animal care team up to
29.5 hours per week . This role is essential in supporting our strategic plan by exceeding modern animal care regulations and ensuring the highest standards of animal wellbeing in the assigned areas. In this role, you will gain hands‑on experience with rare and diverse species and have opportunities in specialized animal care.
You will play a pivotal role in the well‑being of a diverse array of birds, including African Spoonbills, Black‑faced Ibises, Crested Screamers, and Yellow‑billed Storks, to name just a few. Your responsibilities will encompass animal care, habitat maintenance, and creating memorable interactions for the public with our incredible feathered residents.
Imagine working with the regal Indian Blue Peafowl, the vibrant Scarlet Ibis, the majestic Whooping Crane, and the charming Laughing Kookaburra. Your role will involve not only ensuring the welfare of these remarkable creatures but also sharing your enthusiasm and knowledge with our visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for avian diversity.
If you’re prepared to spread your wings and contribute to the well‑being of an extensive and captivating avian community, apply now! Soar with us to meet our mission of “Connecting our community to wildlife and wild places.”
What You'll Do
Animal Care: Monitor, inspect, feed, clean, and make minor repairs to animal enclosures. Observe/record. Maintain daily records.
Guest Interactions: Enhance guest experience through engaging and educational interactions.
Safety and Security: Comply with safety policies and protocols to prioritize human and animal safety.
What You Bring
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to perform the physical demands of the position for a 9.5‑hour shift, including working in Florida weather, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Engaging communication skills for guest interaction and team collaboration.
Willingness to work 3 days a week that includes a Saturday or Sunday, with flexibility for occasional operational needs and/or disaster recovery efforts.
Demonstrate a strong foundation in professional animal care, including:
Hands‑on experience in daily animal husbandry, including behavioral observation, enrichment implementation, animal record‑keeping, and participation in animal introductions.
Familiarity with biosecurity, quarantine, and avian safety practices.
Working knowledge of comparative biology and natural history across multiple taxa, including reptiles, amphibians, fishes, birds, mammals, and invertebrates.
Understanding of and adherence to biosecurity, quarantine, and disease‑prevention protocols within multi‑taxa collections (e.g., parasite management, chytrid fungi, ranavirus, inclusion body disease).
Working knowledge of safely handle and restrain a wide variety of species using approved tools, PPE, and protocols, including potentially dangerous or venomous animals when applicable to the role.
Experience by level:
Animal Care Specialist I: Six (6) months of full‑time equivalent (960 hours) experience in relevant paid or unpaid internships, coursework, or volunteer experience involving the care, husbandry, or management of wildlife in a professionally managed setting (such as a zoo, aquarium, sanctuary, or wildlife rehabilitation facility).
Animal Care Specialist II: Two (2) years of paid experience involving the care, husbandry, or management of wildlife in a professionally managed setting (such as a zoo, aquarium, sanctuary, or wildlife rehabilitation facility).
Senior Care Specialist: Five (5) years of paid experience involving the care, husbandry, or management of wildlife in a professionally managed setting (such as a zoo, aquarium, sanctuary, or wildlife rehabilitation facility).
Pre‑Employment Requirements: Candidates selected for this position must successfully complete all pre‑employment screenings prior to their start date. Compliance with these requirements is mandatory to ensure the safety of staff, animals, and visitors. These include:
Criminal background check.
5‑panel drug test.
Non‑DOT physical examination.
Proof of a current negative tuberculosis (TB) test.
Documentation of required vaccinations, including rabies vaccination or titer.
A Plus
Associate degree or coursework in related fields (e.g., biology, animal science, zoology) is encouraged as a foundation for growth.
Bachelor’s degree in a related life science and/or advanced degrees, certifications, or specialized training in mammal care or wildlife management.
Experience working in an AZA‑accredited or similar professional animal care institution.
Familiarity with institutional animal record systems (e.g., ZIMS or equivalent).
Experience supporting flight conditioning, enrichment, or ambassador bird handling under established protocols.
Experience assisting with avian husbandry, enclosure maintenance, and behavioral observation.
Ability to integrate conservation storytelling tied to field research or species survival plans.
Physical Requirements
Ability to remain standing for extended periods.
Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium.
Hand‑eye coordination and fine motor skills for grasping, turning, and manipulating objects of varying size and weight.
Ability to lift, carry, and move objects up to 50 pounds.
Ability to walk, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, and reach.
Visual acuity for reading, writing, and observing surroundings, and auditory acuity for communication.
Ability to operate motorized carts, trucks, and power tools.
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work in varying environmental conditions.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
WORK CONDITIONS
Exposure to various weather conditions, including extreme heat, sunlight, cold, rain, snow, and wind.
Regular work on weekends and holidays with irregular work hours sometimes required.
Exposure to hazards such as wildlife, waste, equipment, loud noises, chemicals, and heights.
Potential exposure to allergens (dust, animal dander, pollen, etc.), pathogens, and injuries from animals.
Periodic work in small, enclosed areas.
We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local employment regulations. EOE / DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
Seniority Level Entry level
Employment Type Part‑time
Job Function Health Care Provider
Industries Recreational Facilities
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens by 2x
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Bird Care Specialist (Avian, Part-Time)
role at
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens
5 days ago – be among the first 25 applicants
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens provided pay range This range is provided by Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range $17.00/hr - $21.00/hr
Application deadline: Monday, 19 January 2026
and/or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. We reserve the right to close
the posting early
if a well-qualified candidate pool has been established.
Early submission is encouraged.
Please ensure that your application highlights your experience and qualifications as they relate to the responsibilities of this role.
Avian Enthusiast Wanted! Are you ready to take your passion for birds to new heights? We are seeking an exceptional individual with solid observational and record‑keeping skills, an outstanding safety record, and the ability to engage seamlessly with both guests and fellow team members.
Bird Care Specialist (Part-Time)
to join our dedicated animal care team up to
29.5 hours per week . This role is essential in supporting our strategic plan by exceeding modern animal care regulations and ensuring the highest standards of animal wellbeing in the assigned areas. In this role, you will gain hands‑on experience with rare and diverse species and have opportunities in specialized animal care.
You will play a pivotal role in the well‑being of a diverse array of birds, including African Spoonbills, Black‑faced Ibises, Crested Screamers, and Yellow‑billed Storks, to name just a few. Your responsibilities will encompass animal care, habitat maintenance, and creating memorable interactions for the public with our incredible feathered residents.
Imagine working with the regal Indian Blue Peafowl, the vibrant Scarlet Ibis, the majestic Whooping Crane, and the charming Laughing Kookaburra. Your role will involve not only ensuring the welfare of these remarkable creatures but also sharing your enthusiasm and knowledge with our visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for avian diversity.
If you’re prepared to spread your wings and contribute to the well‑being of an extensive and captivating avian community, apply now! Soar with us to meet our mission of “Connecting our community to wildlife and wild places.”
What You'll Do
Animal Care: Monitor, inspect, feed, clean, and make minor repairs to animal enclosures. Observe/record. Maintain daily records.
Guest Interactions: Enhance guest experience through engaging and educational interactions.
Safety and Security: Comply with safety policies and protocols to prioritize human and animal safety.
What You Bring
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to perform the physical demands of the position for a 9.5‑hour shift, including working in Florida weather, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Engaging communication skills for guest interaction and team collaboration.
Willingness to work 3 days a week that includes a Saturday or Sunday, with flexibility for occasional operational needs and/or disaster recovery efforts.
Demonstrate a strong foundation in professional animal care, including:
Hands‑on experience in daily animal husbandry, including behavioral observation, enrichment implementation, animal record‑keeping, and participation in animal introductions.
Familiarity with biosecurity, quarantine, and avian safety practices.
Working knowledge of comparative biology and natural history across multiple taxa, including reptiles, amphibians, fishes, birds, mammals, and invertebrates.
Understanding of and adherence to biosecurity, quarantine, and disease‑prevention protocols within multi‑taxa collections (e.g., parasite management, chytrid fungi, ranavirus, inclusion body disease).
Working knowledge of safely handle and restrain a wide variety of species using approved tools, PPE, and protocols, including potentially dangerous or venomous animals when applicable to the role.
Experience by level:
Animal Care Specialist I: Six (6) months of full‑time equivalent (960 hours) experience in relevant paid or unpaid internships, coursework, or volunteer experience involving the care, husbandry, or management of wildlife in a professionally managed setting (such as a zoo, aquarium, sanctuary, or wildlife rehabilitation facility).
Animal Care Specialist II: Two (2) years of paid experience involving the care, husbandry, or management of wildlife in a professionally managed setting (such as a zoo, aquarium, sanctuary, or wildlife rehabilitation facility).
Senior Care Specialist: Five (5) years of paid experience involving the care, husbandry, or management of wildlife in a professionally managed setting (such as a zoo, aquarium, sanctuary, or wildlife rehabilitation facility).
Pre‑Employment Requirements: Candidates selected for this position must successfully complete all pre‑employment screenings prior to their start date. Compliance with these requirements is mandatory to ensure the safety of staff, animals, and visitors. These include:
Criminal background check.
5‑panel drug test.
Non‑DOT physical examination.
Proof of a current negative tuberculosis (TB) test.
Documentation of required vaccinations, including rabies vaccination or titer.
A Plus
Associate degree or coursework in related fields (e.g., biology, animal science, zoology) is encouraged as a foundation for growth.
Bachelor’s degree in a related life science and/or advanced degrees, certifications, or specialized training in mammal care or wildlife management.
Experience working in an AZA‑accredited or similar professional animal care institution.
Familiarity with institutional animal record systems (e.g., ZIMS or equivalent).
Experience supporting flight conditioning, enrichment, or ambassador bird handling under established protocols.
Experience assisting with avian husbandry, enclosure maintenance, and behavioral observation.
Ability to integrate conservation storytelling tied to field research or species survival plans.
Physical Requirements
Ability to remain standing for extended periods.
Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium.
Hand‑eye coordination and fine motor skills for grasping, turning, and manipulating objects of varying size and weight.
Ability to lift, carry, and move objects up to 50 pounds.
Ability to walk, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, and reach.
Visual acuity for reading, writing, and observing surroundings, and auditory acuity for communication.
Ability to operate motorized carts, trucks, and power tools.
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work in varying environmental conditions.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
WORK CONDITIONS
Exposure to various weather conditions, including extreme heat, sunlight, cold, rain, snow, and wind.
Regular work on weekends and holidays with irregular work hours sometimes required.
Exposure to hazards such as wildlife, waste, equipment, loud noises, chemicals, and heights.
Potential exposure to allergens (dust, animal dander, pollen, etc.), pathogens, and injuries from animals.
Periodic work in small, enclosed areas.
We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local employment regulations. EOE / DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
Seniority Level Entry level
Employment Type Part‑time
Job Function Health Care Provider
Industries Recreational Facilities
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens by 2x
#J-18808-Ljbffr