Biologist - Birds

SC AQUARIUM•Charleston, SC

About The Position

The primary focus for the Biologist position is the management of birds and other assigned animals and their related exhibits and holding spaces. This position demonstrates exceptional animal care to support public education goals. Duties include all aspects of daily care, including feeding, cleaning, animal training and enrichment, and related record keeping. This position will also manage the selection, acquisition, and transport of animals, interact with Aquarium visitors, provide proper life support maintenance and improvements, and provide oversight of ambassador animal care.

Requirements

Hands-on experience with raptors and good knowledge of raptor captive care guidelines
Safe handling and restraint of a variety of bird species (from small passerines to large raptors or waterfowl)
Knowledge of Southeastern U.S. bird biology and habitats - natural history and species-specific behavior
Principles of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training - ability to implement structured training plans that support welfare and husbandry goals.
Ability to recognize, treat, and prevent animal disease
Previous experience exhibiting birds and other animals in zoological display
Ability to properly acquire, transport, and handle specimens
Familiarity with AZA policies, husbandry manuals, and animal exchanges
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to work with others in a team environment
Knowledge and skill of minor plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work
Proficient in all MS Office Products including: Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook
Bachelor’s degree in biology, a closely related field, and/or equivalent experience
Two years paid professional experience in the care and management of birds preferred, preferably at an AZA-accredited facility or acceptable equivalent.
Valid Driver’s License

Responsibilities

Primarily responsible for the bird collection to AZA standards
Assist with other animals such as reptiles, mammals, amphibians, and fishes
Select, locate, and acquire desired specimens
Evaluate and provide all aspects of excellent animal health and welfare for assigned animals
Develop and distribute a proper nutritional diet
Implement and advance behavioral conditioning and enrichment for all assigned animals in alignment with the established behavioral husbandry program.
Work closely with curator and veterinary staff to administer medications, quarantine, and handle animals during veterinary procedures
Work closely with the other aquarium staff on enrichment, ambassador animal management, and conditioning for all assigned animals
Monitor and evaluate ambassador animal use - collaborate with the curator to support and advance the Ambassador Animal Program
Design, construct, and maintain animal enclosures and exhibit aesthetics, including periodic renovations
Demonstrate a high level of organization and daily backup area cleanliness
Interact with Aquarium guests in daily and special programs, providing education and conservation information
Order supplies and maintain equipment
Maintain accurate animal and enclosure records to support the daily use and advanced development of animal information software, TRACKS
Regularly review all related written policies and procedures
Maintain regulatory compliance for all assigned animals
Train fellow staff members, volunteers, and interns on animal handling techniques
Provide coverage for other Animal Care positions as required
Be flexible with work schedule, being able to work weekends, holidays, and evenings
Work unsupervised and make decisions consistent with the team philosophy
Supervise volunteers and interns, providing mentorship and support for the Aquarium’s internship program
Adhere to all South Carolina Aquarium policies and procedures
Assist aquarium staff and visitors as needed in a pleasant, professional, and courteous manner
Perform off site interactions with the public, such as PR appearances and animal programs
Participate in field collection/research as necessary
Support the mission by participating in Aquarium sponsored programs and events on a regular basis, such as daily education programs, membership programs and fundraising activities.
Assist in the continual development of exhibits and educational programs that align with Aquarium goals
Other responsibilities as assigned (including meeting attendance, committee service, social media content development)
Participation on the Ride Out Team may be required with short notice