Avian Husbandry Internship

Summary:
The intern will be tasked with basic seabird and waterfowl care and husbandry techniques. Intern will assist in the daily care and maintenance of the Center’s Alaskan seabird collection and exhibit. This position also participates in daily educational talks and/or tours. The intern is required to work a flexible schedule to accommodate variable hours, including early mornings, evenings and weekends as needed. 

Education / Experience: 
Previous customer service job preferred. Applicants with a background in biology, animal husbandry, or wildlife rehabilitation preferred.

Essential Duties:
Under the guidance of Avian staff, the intern will be trained and expected to perform the following duties:

1.    Perform daily animal diet preparations and routine cleaning of seabird exhibits, waterfowl enclosures and work areas.
2.    Record daily observations and note the health and condition of the exhibit birds – noting changes in behavior and appearance throughout the breeding season.
3.    Work in outdoor exhibit and aviary spaces with moderate to strenuous physical activity, lifting up to 50 lbs.
4.    Lead daily Keeper chats and tours.
5.    Maintain computer records and data.
6.    Assist in habitat maintenance and breeding season preparations.
7.    Assist the avian staff in current research projects and data collection.
8.    Interacting daily with interpretation, husbandry and research personnel.
9.    Performs other duties relating to the Center’s goals and mission statement as required.

Other Skills and Abilities:
Ability to speak effectively and to be comfortable meeting new people when interfacing with existing and potential new donors.  Ability to work independently with excellent organizational and time management skills.  Experience with Google Suite and Zims360 preferred.

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 essential functions. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas. Applicants should be able to work outside in the sun, wind, rain, or a combination of all three.
Ability to see and hear; stand and walk; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; and sit. Ability to lift and move 50 pounds.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Internship Dates: May 1st, 2025 - September 1st, 2025

Open Until Filled

Unpaid Internship / Housing Provided

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

A background check will be conducted on any potential intern.