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Reminder

Arch Street will be closed in both directions beginning Friday, June 2 at 1 pm and all of Saturday, June 3. Please follow posted detour signs when traveling to the National Aviary. Alternate Routes

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Join Our Team

Join Our Team!

The National Aviary is a dynamic place to work, where you can use your unique talents to help us fulfill our mission to inspire respect for nature through an appreciation of birds. We offer a variety of employment, internship, and volunteer positions in numerous departments.

If you see a position that matches your skillset, please fill out the application below, and return it along with your resume to the hiring manager listed in the job description.

Download Our Application

Employment Opportunities

  • Aviculturist

    Reports to: Curator of Animal Husbandry and Wellness

    Status: Non-Exempt, Full-time

    Department: Animal Collections

    Date: April 2023

    Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Jessy McAtee at Jessica.McAtee@aviary.org.

    SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:

    The Aviculturist assists the Senior Aviculturists with husbandry, training, enrichment, and visitor engagement pertaining to the birds and mammals at the National Aviary. The Aviculturist acts as the primary point of contact in the absence of the Senior Aviculturist. The Animal Collections department is composed of five sections that the swing keeper may work in based on departmental needs.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

    • Ability to be trained and retain skills in multiple sections with flexibility to move between regions as assigned.
    • Supports the Senior Aviculturist in the husbandry of the animals in the assigned area, including cleaning, enriching, training and other initiatives as determined by the Senior Aviculturist or management.
    • Cleans animal habitats as needed to maintain cleanliness standards, following standard operating procedures.
    • Observes animals daily and immediately reports any issues.
    • Ensures acceptable daily appearance of all habitat components prior to opening and over the course of the operational day.
    • Maintains an understanding of the principles that underlie animal welfare in the zoological field and supports the National Aviary’s Animal Welfare Program.
    • Maintains an understanding of the welfare indicators for the species and individual animals under their care.
    • Assists in the modification and maintenance of habitats, including identifying and implementing solutions to housing problems with supervisory approval.
    • Identifies and communicates minor problems in air-handling, lighting, and filtrations systems.
    • Provides approved enrichment to all animals in a given area on the proper schedule and completes necessary record-keeping related to enrichment.
    • Conducts daily feeding presentations and encounters for visitors as assigned.
    • Develops a proficient understanding of and employs the principles of basic operant conditioning.
    • Works with Curator of Behavioral Management and Education to train animals in habitats.
    • Trains and oversees assistant aviculturists, interns, and volunteers.
    • Prepares food for the animals and monitors daily diet consumption for a variety of species with supervisory approval.
    • Performs welfare assessments as assigned.
    • Notates daily observations in record-keeping database.
    • Prepares and administers medical treatments as prescribed by the Veterinarian.
    • Adheres to all National Aviary protocols and procedures.
    • Interacts with visitors utilizing National Aviary Visitor Engagement protocol.

    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

    OTHER DUTIES:

    Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for their job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

     SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

    • The Aviculturist has no formal supervisory responsibilities.
    • The Aviculturist may direct the day-to-day work of the Assistant Aviculturist, volunteers, and interns in the absence of the Senior Aviculturist.

    SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

    • Ability to be a good team player and maintain a positive attitude.
    • Strong written and oral communication skills
    • Able to work effectively as part of a team and in performance of individual tasks
    • Self-motivated and able to learn the different aspects of animal husbandry, care, and behavior
    • Considerable knowledge of the species’ natural history, breeding and husbandry requirements of animals that are maintained in the collection
    • Ability to properly handle and restrain a variety of species
    • Strong presentation skills, as well as the ability to interact and communicate with a variety of audiences in a professional and engaging manner
    • Ability to communicate effectively and interact positively with the public, supervisors, and peers.
    • Good decision-making skills
    • Ability to assess and prioritize multiple tasks and demands

    EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

    • Undergraduate degree in biology, animal care, conservation or related field required.
    • 2 or more years paid aviculture experience or relevant zoo work required

     OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

    • Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
    • Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record Check
    • Valid Driver’s License and ability to pass Department of Motor Vehicles preferred.

     PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

    While performing the duties of this job, the employee constantly positions self to complete cleaning and maintenance of habitats, including under, over, and around obstacles. The employee occasionally ascends and descends ladders. The employee regularly transports crates and supplies up to 50 pounds. The employee regularly uses utensils and tools including knives, scissors, hoses, falconry equipment. The employee occasionally operates hand and power equipment.

     WORK ENVIRONMENT:

    Work environments will include chilled or humid environments, public areas where the noise level may be loud, outdoors where work may need to be done in inclement weather conditions, including extremes of temperature and precipitation, and climate-controlled office spaces. The employee is regularly exposed to various disinfecting agents and common allergens such as latex, nuts, and seafood.

    POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK.

    This is a full-time position.  The candidate must be able to work on weekdays, weekends, and holidays and occasionally in the evening as job duties demand.

  • General Maintenance Mechanic

    Reports to: Manager of Buildings and Grounds

    Status: Non-Exempt, Part-time

    Department: Buildings and Grounds

    Date: April 2023

    Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Gary Tuscan at Gary.Tuscan@aviary.org

    SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:

    The General Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for performing general and preventative maintenance services and related repairs to the National Aviary buildings, structures, machinery and equipment.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

    • Performs assigned general maintenance duties required to maintain and repair Aviary buildings, structures, machinery and equipment, involving skills in carpentry, plumbing, painting, and electrical or mechanical trades.
    • Reviews assigned all work order requests, prioritizes and makes sure that jobs specified are completed timely and satisfactorily.
    • Maintains records of hours/materials expended for projects.
    • Assists Manager of Maintenance in routine inspections of facility.
    • Maintains a tool management plan to control and track inventory of tools and equipment and to ensure that all tools / equipment are in proper working condition, and stored properly.
    • Makes emergency repairs within area of knowledge, responsibility and training.
    • Maintains and troubleshoots phone and data systems.
    • Inspects machinery in operations to ensure proper functioning.
    • Performs high reach work as necessary, including work performed on a ladder or aerial lift.
    • Assists with other departments as needed to support operations.
    • Available to assist on site in the event of a facility critical emergency situation.
    • Assists with snow removal in times of inclement weather.
    • Adheres to all National Aviary protocols and procedures.
    • Interacts with visitors utilizing National Aviary Visitor Engagement protocol.
    • Adheres to and models National Aviary safety policies.

    Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

    OTHER DUTIES:

    Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for their job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

     SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

    • The General Maintenance Mechanic has no supervisory responsibilities.

    SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

    • Working knowledge of two or more trades and mechanical aptitude as required
    • Knowledge and ability to operate tools of the trade
    • Ability to follow written, visual, and verbal instructions
    • Good communication skills
    • Knowledge of safe work principles and practices

    EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

    • High school diploma or GED
    • Minimum of 5 years of experience in one or more of the building trades, or combination of two years vocational school training and three years trade experience.

    OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

    • Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
    • Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record Check
    • Valid Driver’s License and ability to pass Department of Motor Vehicles check

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

    While performing the duties of this job, the employee constantly positions self to complete maintenance projects, including under and around equipment and furniture. The employee frequently moves equipment weighing up to 50 pounds across the facility. The employee regularly ascends and descends ladders. The employee regularly operates hand and power equipment.

    WORK ENVIRONMENT:

    Work environments will include climate-controlled office spaces, public areas where the noise level may be loud, and outdoors where work may need to be done in inclement weather conditions, including extremes of temperature and precipitation.

    POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK.

    This is a Part-time position.

  • Manager of Philanthropy

    Reports to: Director of Philanthropy

    Status: Exempt, Full-time

    Department: Philanthropy

    Date: February 22, 2023

    Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Laurie Nicholl at Laurie.Nicholl@aviary.org

    DESCRIPTION:

    Help connect the philanthropic community to wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship through this rewarding opportunity at the National Aviary. The Manager of Philanthropy leads efforts to engage and grow corporate, small business, and community organization partnerships through outright gifts, event sponsorships, onsite and digital marketing sponsorships, naming opportunities, and related donations. This key management position contributes to achieving the National Aviary’s annual operating, capital, and programmatic needs and goals, and the overall success of the organization. In addition to working directly with the Director of Philanthropy and the Philanthropy team, this position also works closely with the Senior Director of External Operations and Development, Events Manager, and Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications. The team supports the National Aviary’s important conservation efforts by connecting people to our work saving birds and protecting their habitats. Learn more about the one and only National Aviary and its remarkable work in avian care, conservation, and education at aviary.org.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

    • Managing and expanding philanthropic giving from corporations, small businesses, community organizations, and philanthropic events.
    • Achieves annual fundraising goals for the position and contributes to the annual contributed revenue goal for the National Aviary through a proactive plan, while supporting the Strategic Plan of the institution.
    • Identifies emerging business leadership and industry trends with emphasis on developing a high-value exchange for the purpose of creating strong alliances and soliciting major gifts.
    • Generates a greater sense of support and engagement from existing and new donors.
    • Conducts sponsor and donor visits regularly and often, and makes direct solicitations and closes gifts.
    • Leverages all sources of corporate funding including, but not limited to, PA EITC contributions, employee volunteer opportunities, matching gifts, etc.
    • Secures sponsors for onsite and digital marketing, naming, and other partnership opportunities.
    • Manages and leads cause/cause-related marketing campaigns.
    • Conducts formal presentations both on- and off-site with prospective donors, including tours of the organization and presentations focused on matters relevant to partners.
    • Working closely with Marketing, writes proposals, and negotiates contracts and agreements with prospective partners to ensure long-standing relationships.
    • Works with the Director of Philanthropy, Events Manager, and events team to develop strategy, sponsorship support, and a high-level approach for each philanthropic event.
    • Secures sponsors for Night in the Tropics, Hike-A-Thon, and other fundraising events. Creates and executes stewardship plan for event sponsors.
    • Provides project management leadership, working with a cross-departmental team to set clear expectations and milestones for each event, ensuring all components are successfully executed.
    • Works closely with Marketing and Communications team to ensure sponsor benefits are fulfilled. Provides thorough analysis of each event, incorporating cross-departmental feedback.

    VALUES:

    Share in our mission to inspire respect for nature through an appreciation of birds. The National Aviary values partnerships with the philanthropic community as an avenue to fulfill this mission. When you are part of the National Aviary team, you will be immersed in a work culture of collaboration, inclusivity, respect, and continual growth.

    LOCATION:

    The National Aviary is located in Pittsburgh, a city rich in culture and history, with accessible museums, theaters, and sporting events. We are situated in Pittsburgh’s oldest park, Allegheny Commons, a beautiful green space. Ranked as one of the most livable U.S. cities, Pittsburgh is known for its friendly neighborhoods and affordable cost of living.

    SKILLS AND QUALIFACTIONS:

    • Proven track record of maintaining relationships with donors and determining the optimal scenario for successful partnership and gift solicitation
    • Strong leadership, team management, and project management skills with experience in managing simultaneous projects in a fast-paced environment
    • Ability to exercise initiative and sound judgment and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, donors, and the public
    • Ability to organize and complete projects in a timely manner, using initiative and proper professional judgment; ability to work independently and as a team
    • Strong presentation skills, as well as the ability to interact and communicate with a variety of audiences in a professional and engaging manner
    • Ability to create, write, and edit philanthropic materials, including proposals, reports, stewardship materials, and program summaries
    • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and donor software
    • Bachelor’s degree in related field; master’s degree a plus; or equivalent professional experience related to this job
    • Minimum of 5 years of fundraising experience
    • Knowledge of avian, wildlife, and environmental issues a plus

    OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

    • Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
    • Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record Check
    • Valid Driver’s License and ability to pass Department of Motor Vehicles check

    WORK ENIVORMENT:

    Work environments will include climate-controlled office spaces and public areas where the noise level may be loud. This role routinely uses standard office equipment, such as computers, phones, copiers, and filing cabinets. This is a full-time position. Evening and weekend work is required as job duties require.

    BENEFITS:

    • On the job training and mentorship
    • Skilled and dedicated support team
    • 15 paid days off and 11 paid holidays
    • Generous medical, dental, and vision insurance, and flexible spending account
    • Disability and life insurance
    • 403(b) retirement options
    • Aviary family membership and discounts

Internships

The National Aviary will be accepting applications for 2023 internships during the following periods:
Summer: February 7 through March 7, 2023
Fall: June 7 through July 7, 2023

Seasonal onsite and remote internships are available in a variety of departments. Interns at the National Aviary can develop marketable skills, make important connections, and learn firsthand about the rewarding career opportunities available in zoos.

Search Internships

Volunteering with the National Aviary

The National Aviary is accepting volunteer applications for select positions which provide opportunities for volunteers to responsibly engage with Aviary visitors in free-flight habitats while following safety guidelines set forth by the CDC.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities here.

Become a volunteer to meet new people and engage in lifelong learning!

Already a volunteer? Login here.

The National Aviary is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

In The News

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National Aviary summer season includes ‘Superheroes of the Sky’ | Herald-Standard

New daily activities included with admission allow guests to get close with a league of Avian Superheroes!

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New daily activities included with admission allow guests to get close with a league of Avian Superheroes!

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New Peer-Reviewed Paper from Project Principalis Published in Ecology and Evolution Suggests Ivory-billed Woodpeckers Survive in Louisiana | National Aviary News

Project Principalis has released new evidence in Ecology and Evolution supporting the persistence of Ivory-billed Woodpeckers in Louisiana.

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The National Aviary’s Wetlands Renovation Win Prix Lumière Award | Association de vitrerie et fenestration du Québec

The National Aviary's Wetlands project won the Prix Lumière last night for the Institutional Commercial Project Category.

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Top Pick: Up Close and Personal With Swooping Birds at the National Aviary

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