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 ApplicationEmployment Opportunities
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Crewmember (Part-time)
Reports to: Manager of Buildings & Grounds
Status: Non-exempt, part-time
Department: Buildings & Grounds
Date: July 2023
Please submit your resume, application, and cover letter to Kevin Fonner, kevin.fonner@aviary.org.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The Buildings and Grounds Crewmember is an important role in the Buildings and Grounds Department. The Crewmember is responsible for creating a clean, safe, disinfected and comfortable environment for the National Aviary’s Animal collection, visitors, and staff. The Crewmember directly affects the Visitor Experience and the working conditions of staff.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performs major cleaning and disinfecting of assigned areas; cleans and maintains buildings, furnishings, ground and property.
- Performs daily floor maintenance of all main hallways and visitor space areas.
- Cleans, sanitizes and disinfects restroom facilities and fixtures including sinks, urinals and toilets; washes windows, mirrors and walls; monitors and maintains adequate supplies in the restrooms
- Adheres to sanitization practices and schedules as directed
- Empties, sanitizes and deodorizes trash and recycling containers.
- Cleans and dusts furniture, air vents, doorframes, doors, walls, windows and window blinds, mirrors and baseboards.
- Identifies and reports building maintenance needs throughout the facilities
- Completes special cleaning details as requested.
- Assists with daytime events: moves and arranges furniture; opens and secures buildings; locks entrances, exits, doors and other mechanisms in Aviary buildings.
- When working evening events:
- Sets up and breaks down events, including moving equipment (tables, chairs, benches, trash/ recycling receptacles, pop tents, portable lamp posts, sound systems, and extension cords); opens and secures buildings; locks entrances, exits, doors and other mechanisms in Aviary facility.
- Adheres to event guidelines and follows direction from events staff during all events to ensure high visitor satisfaction.
- Performs frequent rounds of visitor spaces, discreetly tidying and pulling trash/ recycling as necessary.
- Works with Animal Programs in the cleaning and maintenance of off-exhibit holding.
- Performs landscaping duties, as needed, including maintenance of grounds, parking lot, sidewalks, and snow removal.
- Assists with other departments, including but not limited to special events, as needed to support operations
- Adheres to all National Aviary protocols and procedures
- Interacts with visitors utilizing National Aviary Visitor Engagement protocol
- Adheres to and models National Aviary and OSHA safety policies including, but not limited to disinfection procedures, Safety Data Sheet (SDS) compliance, Hazard Communication, PPE, Infection Control and others as identified.
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 Crewmember has no supervisory responsibilities
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Ability to follow written, visual, and verbal instructions
- Good communication skills
- Knowledge of janitorial procedures and techniques preferred
- Knowledge of safe work principles and practices
- Ability to learn the use of a variety of custodial equipment, supplies and materials
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- High school diploma or GED required
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in janitorial / maintenance / service industry preferred
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
- Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record Check
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee constantly positions self to complete cleaning projects, including under and around equipment and furniture. The employee frequently moves equipment weighing up to 50 pounds across the facility. The employee occasionally ascends and descends ladders. The employee occasionally operates hand and power equipment.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work environments will include climate-controlled facilities, 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.
The candidate must have a flexible schedule and be able to work on weekdays, weekends, holidays and evenings, as job duties demand.
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Director of Events and Corporate Partnerships
Reports to: Senior Director, Site Operations & Development
Status: Exempt, Full-time
Department: Buildings & Grounds
Date: August 2023
Please submit your resume, application, and cover letter to Conor McGarvey, Conor.McGarvey@aviary.org.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The National Aviary is seeking a dynamic and experienced special events and corporate partnerships professional to take its existing special events, facility rentals program to new heights. With the recent completion of “The Garden Room,” a dazzling new four seasons event space, the Director of Events and Corporate Partnerships will serve on the National Aviary’s senior leadership team and work closely with multiple departments to build an invigorated, revenue-driving year-round facility rentals program. This position will be the lead all National Aviary fundraising events, including the signature fundraiser, Night in the Tropics. This position will also cultivate corporations through the event rentals program to build new sponsorship opportunities and enhance corporate partnerships, working to develop and execute effective and timely strategies to boost special events and corporate partnerships at the National Aviary. The position also oversees all in-house donor events and ensures the highest level of customer service and donor relationship management.
The Director of Events and Corporate Partnerships will manage the events and facility rentals department, and will report to the Senior Director, Site Operations & Development. The Director of Events and Corporate Partnerships oversees the relationship with the National Aviary’s exclusive caterer, develops facility rental process and systems, and interfaces with clients as needed. This position has oversight of the National Aviary’s footprint on the Pittsburgh event rentals market, especially for corporate bookings. This position will work closely with the philanthropy department, ensuring the highest level of customer service for all in-house fundraising and donor events.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Directs the Events Department using sound business strategy, continually evaluating and improving strategies, goals, and results.
- Responsible for developing and implementing strategies meeting sale goals and fundraising goals to achieve revenue growth in facility rentals.
- Oversees strategies around all facility rentals opportunities, including:
- Managing and developing pricing structure and sales materials.
- Developing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for event rentals and corporate partnerships
- Determining media outlets to focus marketing budget.
- Facilitating regular targeted messages or other strategies that effectively garner business on an ongoing basis.
- Developing and continually refining key sales messages and positioning.
- Monitoring “review” web sites (the Knot, Wedding Wire, etc.) and using information to make improvements as well as share positive feedback.
- Ensuring daily coverage for inquiries and ensuring responses are made within 24 hours.
- Leads the planning of high profile National Aviary events, including Night in the Tropics and other fundraisers, including leadership of a multi-departmental team, event budget, sponsorships, vendors, permitting, rentals, layout, décor, staffing, entertainment, and other needs to meet or exceed revenue goals.
- Identifies and targets prospective corporate partners. Specifically, creates growth for corporate event rentals, and cultivates corporate rental clients to generate a prospect funnel for corporate sponsorships. Achieves growth in corporate rental and corporate sponsorship space, by identifying synergies between the two, cultivating key relationships, identifying opportunities for new partners, and deepening engagement for existing partners.
- Develops, maintains and strengthens existing corporate relationships, working with key stakeholders on the National Aviary’s senior leadership team.
- Works with Director of Philanthropy to meet the needs of the Aviary and corporate partners.
- Oversee planning for other Aviary events (i.e. Holiday Lights and Late Nights), high visibility events such as ground-breakings, ribbon cutting ceremonies, VIP event rentals, donor events, and other similar events.
- Oversees departmental requests for internal events and high profile meetings, including overseeing scheduling, set-up, fulfilling in-house catering needs, and ensuring consistent quality.
- Maintains and supervises Events Department staff to accomplish departmental goals and motivate, direct, and support the professional development of the team.
- Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the National Aviary’s policies and applicable laws.
- Leads Events department to achieve excellence in client service, as well as efficiencies in processes related to client correspondence and meetings, catering coordination, contracting, and other needs. Manages at a high level the relationship with the exclusive caterer to ensure mutual benefit to both parties (National Aviary and Caterer), as well as excellence in client satisfaction.
- When other events staff is not available, and/or for high profile clients, meets with potential clients, conducts site visits, and supervises events.
- Generates sales strategies for growth in event rentals, which may include tradeshows, networking events, and other marketing strategies, as appropriate.
- Completes general daily administrative duties as necessary.
- Ensures all clients have a positive experience through cultivation, follow-up, and overall professionalism.
- Develops and upholds organizational policies and practices to minimize organizational risk before, during and after events.
- Works closely with Buildings and Grounds Department to meet the needs of our clients and of the organization.
- Obtains necessary contracts and insurance documents with third parties.
- Available to events staff to help troubleshoot emergency event needs.
- Serves as a Responsible Party and Incident Commander as needed; adheres to all National Aviary policies and protocols.
- 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 Director of Events and Corporate Partnerships supervises the Events Department staff.
- While leading an event, the Director of Events and Corporate Partnerships supervises all event staff from setup to teardown including Buildings & Grounds, Animal Programs, security, etc.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, telephone skills, organization, and interpersonal skills
- Strong, demonstrated skills in sales as well as managing the sales process
- Ability to analyze and ensure that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are met
- Ability to assess and prioritize multiple tasks and demands while meeting deadlines
- Ability to exercise sound judgment in various situations
- Ability to maintain a calm and courteous demeanor under pressure
- Ability to manage, train, coach, and motivate employees
- Ability to interact and communicate with a variety of audiences in a professional, clear, and engaging manner to ensure organizational needs and event needs are met
- Expertise in relationship building and cultivation
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
- Strong leadership, team management and project management skills with experience in managing simultaneous projects in a fast-paced environment
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s Degree in related field
- Five or more years of related experience in a manager level position
- Supervisory experience preferred
- Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered
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 moves around the facility, including under and around equipment and furniture. The employee occasionally moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
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.
POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:
This is a full-time position. Candidate must be available to work a typical event management schedule on a weekly basis, including evenings and weekends.
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Events Coordinator (Seasonal)
Reports to: Events Manager
Status: Part-time, Seasonal
Department: Buildings and Grounds
Date: July 2023
Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Jena Stock, jena.stock@aviary.org.
DESCRIPTION:
The National Aviary is home to one of Pittsburgh’s best new events venues! The Seasonal Event Coordinator will get the opportunity to work on events ranging from weddings and showers, to Bar and Bat Mitzvah Celebrations and Corporate occasions. Be a part of a dedicated team that gives our guests a stress-free event. As a part-time Seasonal Event Coordinator, you can bring the guest’s vision to life while supporting the National Aviary’s work to save birds and protect their habitats. We support new team members with customized job training. The average day consists of supervising all aspects of hosting on-site private and special events such as site tours and seating charts, coordinate and communicates with Food & Beverage supplier and other vendors, and assists Events Manager as needed. Join an innovative team by providing event planning experience.
The National Aviary has an Events team dedicated to providing high-quality events working mainly in our newest event space, The Garden Room, which opened in 2020. You can learn how to create unique events in a nonprofit environment.
VALUES:
Share in our mission to inspire respect for nature through an appreciation of birds. The National Aviary values compassionate care for all birds as individuals. 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:
Located in Pittsburgh’s historic Northside neighborhood, the National Aviary offers a one-of-a-kind workplace with a few feathered friends! This fact-paced environment ensures that your work day will never be the same.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The primary responsibility of the Events Coordinator is to coordinate private and corporate facility rentals; coordinate all hosting logistics on the day of the events; assist in the planning of marketing and fundraising events and provide effective presentations to prospective clients. With guidance from the Events Manager, the Events Coordinator will have a proactive and ongoing sales strategy, and will optimize scheduling of events throughout the year. The Events Coordinator will evaluate vendors who best meet the National Aviary as well as our clients’ needs for quality and value and act as primary interface with these vendors.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Acts as night of coordinator supervising events including weddings, corporate events, and private parties occurring on weekends/evenings.
- Supervises all aspects of hosting on-site private and special events including, but not limited to: providing event layouts to National Aviary Staff prior to the event and overseeing set-up on day of; coordinating vendors & deliveries (floral, décor, other) and valet parking if appropriate; servicing clients’ and guests’ needs throughout their events; supervising staff on site during event to ensure customer service, safety, and cleanliness standards are consistently upheld.
- Coordinates and communicates with Food & Beverage provider
- Assists with set up and teardown, if necessary.
- Provides support and acts as back up to Events Manager.
- Closes and secures building at the event’s conclusion.
- Coordinates and maintains all documents related to special events including but not limited to, contracts and insurance documents with third parties and after event reporting.
- Maintains accurate records related to facility rentals and special events.
- Accurately and efficiently produces seating charts for events using All Seated software.
- Communicates with clients and internal stakeholders regarding seating charts in a timely fashion.
- When needed, handles inquiries regarding facility rentals by answering phone calls, immediately returning voicemails, emails and web based inquiries; inquiries including pricing, available space, date availability, bird encounters, catering, etc..
- When needed, meets with potential clients and conducts facility tours highlighting the National Aviary’s unique attributes as a private event venue.
- Performs general daily administrative duties and assists with other departmental requests.
- Assists in maintaining budget for facility rental expenses and for meeting department revenue goals.
- Serves as a Responsible Party; adheres to all National Aviary policies and protocols.
- Communicates with Incident Commander when necessary.
- 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:
- While leading an event, the Events Coordinator supervises all event staff from setup to teardown including buildings & grounds, animal programs, security, etc.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, telephone skills, organization, and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated skills in event coordination including event execution, vendor relations and emergency response management when applicable,
- Demonstrated skills in sales, as well as managing the sales process
- Ability to notice sales trends, analyze information, and make strategic marketing recommendations
- Ability to exercise sound judgment in various situations.
- Ability to maintain a calm and courteous demeanor under pressure
- Must be able to clearly convey information and respond to questions with professionalism and poise
- Ability to interact with visitors and colleagues in a highly professional, respectful and responsive manner
- Strong administrative skills including filing with accuracy, both electronic and paper files; and working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint)
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- Combination of education and experience will be considered
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 moves around the facility, including under and around equipment and furniture. The employee occasionally moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
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.
POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:
This is a part-time position. Evening and weekend hours will be required as job duties.
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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 Conor McGarvey at Conor.McGarvey@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.
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Guest Operations Associate (Part-time)
Reports to: Assistant Manager of Retail Services
Status: Non-Exempt, Part-time
Department: Guest Operations
Date: September 2023
Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Cindy Fisher at Cindy.Fisher@aviary.org.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The Guest Operations Associate assists with all front-of-house operations, which includes the Retail Shop and Admissions. This position is responsible for promoting walk-in membership sales and the sales of in-house encounters and programs, providing excellent customer service, maintaining accurate admissions and retail records, and safeguarding cash.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Hospitality and Guest Experience
- Greets guests and completes the check-in process by following established protocols focusing on excellent customer service.
- Enhances guest experience by promoting and selling memberships, brunch, all classes and education programs.
- Interacts with guests, asking if they are enjoying their visit, need any help finding a habitat, or have any questions in order to ensure a superior customer experience. Contacts appropriate department personnel, as needed, to properly respond to a guest.
- Utilizes the Point-of-Sale system efficiently for admission, merchandising, and scheduling. Accurately enters purchase orders following all protocols and policies.
- Maintains the cleanliness of all front-of-house operations.
- Assists in outside telephone call coordination, answering general guest questions and directing calls to appropriate individuals.
- Periodically serves as Shift Leader to maintain orderliness of educational areas, assist guests with wayfinding, respond to guest phone and email inquiries, and maintain gift shop merchandise so all products are stocked and neat.
- Stays up to date with the National Aviary messaging and is equipped to share interesting facts about our birds, changes, and updates with guests.
- Adheres to all National Aviary protocols and procedures.
- Interacts with visitors utilizing National Aviary Visitor Engagement protocol.
Membership and Program Promotion
- Greets guests and completes the check-in process. Promotes and sells memberships, encounters, and add-on programs.
- Utilizes the Point-of-Sale system efficiently for membership processing, admissions and timed entry, merchandising, and scheduling.
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 Guest Operation Associate has no supervisory responsibilities.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must be highly professional, respectful, and responsive when interacting with guests and colleagues.
- Well organized, with the ability to assess and prioritize multiple tasks and demands.
- Proficient in both written and oral communication skills, positive and professional appearance, and proficiency in public speaking.
- Must be able to clearly convey information and respond to questions in a professional manner
- Reliable and punctual
- Positive and professional appearance
- Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work.
- Ability to record detailed and accurate information necessary when booking events
- Must be able to operate the phone system and Point of Sale system
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- High school diploma or GED required
- Experience with Point-of-Sale system preferred.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
- Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record Check
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee constantly operates a computer and phone and regularly moves about the office to access fixtures, file cabinets, office equipment, etc. The employee occasionally will use a stepladder and other tools to access merchandise. The employee occasionally lifts boxes up to 25 pounds across the facility.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work environments will include climate-controlled office spaces, public areas where the noise level may be loud, and occasionally outdoors where work may need to be done in inclement weather conditions, including extremes of temperature and precipitation.
POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:
The candidate must have a flexible schedule and be able to work on weekdays, weekends, holidays, and occasionally in the evening as job duties demand.
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Husbandry Assistant (Part-time)
Reports to: Manager of Behavioral Husbandry and Training
Status: Non-Exempt, Part-time
Department: Animal Programs
Date: August 2023
Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Jenny Owens at Jenny.Owens@aviary.org.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The National Aviary Husbandry Assistant is part of a dynamic and energetic Animal Programs department performing all job assignments with a positive attitude that reflects the National Aviary’s mission to inspire a respect for nature through an appreciation of birds. The Husbandry Assistant performs daily husbandry tasks at a high level of care and efficiency. Daily task include cleaning habitats, feeding animals established diets, and providing enrichment.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Promotes and protects the welfare of the ambassador animal collection by practicing excellent animal husbandry and enrichment, following established standard operating procedures.
- Assists with habitat maintenance and improvements.
- Maintains awareness and understanding of the National Aviary’s animal collection and environment, and appreciates each animal’s natural history and personal story.
- Adheres to all National Aviary protocols and procedures.
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 Husbandry Assistant has no supervisory responsibilities.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Dependable and adaptable
- Ability to be a good team player and maintain a positive attitude.
- Ability to follow written and oral directions
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Good time management and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and as a team
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Undergraduate degree in Zoological Sciences, Environmental Education, or similar field or 2 years relevant professional experience in a zoo, nature center, museum, or other informal learning center preferred.
- Experience in animal husbandry preferred.
- Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
- Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record Check
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee constantly positions self to complete cleaning and maintenance of habitats and exhibits, including under and around obstacles. 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 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. 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 part-time position. The candidate must be able to work on weekdays, weekends, holidays, and occasionally in the evening as job duties demand.
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Manager of Maintenance Operations
Reports to: Senior Director, Site Operations & Development
Status: Exempt, Full-time
Department: Buildings & Grounds
Date: August 2023
Please submit your resume, application, and cover letter to Conor McGarvey, Conor.McGarvey@aviary.org.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The Manager of Maintenance Operations position is responsible for the daily management of the facility including, but not limited to the daily management of facilities staff, management of MEP systems, maintenance programs and work-order systems, pest control systems, and related projects. The Manager of Maintenance Operations has an understanding of facility maintenance standard procedures, knowledge of facility systems, and possesses excellent management skills.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Management of daily maintenance operations.
- Responsible for performing daily walkthroughs and overall management to ensure that facility operations are well maintained and operable.
- Works closely with the Director of Facility Development and Operations regarding management of all mechanical, electrical and controls systems. Ensures contracted services are completed as required for ongoing maintenance and repairs for the facility and exhibits, structures, machinery and equipment.
- Works closely with the Director of Facility Development and Operations to coordinate contracted services for ongoing maintenance and repairs for the facility and exhibits, structures, machinery and equipment.
- Manages work order systems and maintenance projects, including the CMMS (computerized maintenance management system) software, including preventative and corrective maintenance work orders, and equipment useful life information
- Schedules required inspections as mandated by local authorities or as required for maintaining equipment reliability.
- Works closely with Director of Facility Development and Operations to ensure overall safety for staff and visitors, and is available and on a rotational 24-hour call basis in the event of a fire, police, facility related, or other emergency.
- Responsible for overall grounds keeping. This includes landscaping, snow removal, maintenance of parking lot, driveway, walkways, etc.
- Establishes and manages process for trash removal and recycling.
- Maintains Buildings and Ground staff by recruiting, selecting, orienting, and training employees.
- Accomplishes Buildings and Grounds departmental goals by communicating job expectations; planning, monitoring, and appraising job performance; and coaching, counseling, and disciplining employees. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the National Aviary’s policies and applicable laws.
- Responsible for overall pest control. Works closely with the Directors of Animal Collections and Director of Veterinary Medicine to ensure that all cleaning products, insecticides and rodenticide meet avian safety requirements
- Provides support and acts as back-up to Manager of Buildings & Grounds for event turnover, support and other tasks, as necessary
- Provides support and acts as back-up to Director of Facility Development and Operations
- Collaborates with the Director of Facility Development and Operations in the creation and management of the annual department operating and capital budgets.
- Ensures timely and accurate completion of all safety related and general work requests according to compliance, code and safety inspections.
- Assists the General Maintenance Mechanic with special projects, as needed.
- Assists other departments as needed to support operations.
- Serves as an Incident Commander and Responsible Party; adheres to all National Aviary policies and protocols
- Adheres to, models and contributes to development of National Aviary safety policies & trainings.
- 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 Manager of Maintenance Operations supervises maintenance staff and grounds staff.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Working knowledge of: project management, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, maintenance procedures and techniques, and safe work principles and practices
- Ability to manage, train, coach, and motivate employees.
- Skill in assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks and demands
- Ability to organize and complete projects in a timely manner, using initiative and proper professional judgment; ability to work independently and as a team
- Skill in identifying and recommending solutions to problems
- Strong oral and proficient written communication skills
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with co-workers
- Proficiency and experience with Microsoft Office products
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- High School diploma or GED required; bachelor’s degree preferred
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in building systems, facility operations, maintenance or construction required.
- Minimum of 2 years of management experience.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Satisfactory Federal District Criminal Court Check, National Criminal Database Check and State-Wide Unified Courts Criminal Check
- Valid Driver’s License and ability to pass Department of Motor Vehicles check
- Valid ID for I-9
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly 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 and will be required to operate aerial lift equipment. The employee occasionally utilizes 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 full-time position. The candidate must have a flexible schedule and be able to work on holidays, weekdays and weekends and occasionally in the evening as job duties demand. This position requires on-call responsibilities related to fire, police, or mechanical emergencies.
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Veterinary Care Assistant (Part-time)
Reports to: Manager of Veterinary Department & Assistant Manager of Veterinary Department
Status: Non-Exempt, Part-time
Department: Veterinary Hospital
Date: June 2023
Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Pilar Fish at Pilar.Fish@aviary.org.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The Veterinary Care Assistant provides husbandry, diets, and enrichment for animals under veterinary care, and assists with hospital procedures and maintenance.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Supports the National Aviary’s mission to inspire a respect for nature through an appreciation of birds and its goals of providing high quality visitor experiences, educational programs, and conservation messaging.
- Adheres to all National Aviary protocols and procedures.
- Maintains a strong understanding of the principles that underlie animal welfare in the zoological field and supports the National Aviary’s Animal Welfare Program.
- Maintains understanding of the welfare indicators for the species and individual animals under their care.
- Assists with preparing welfare assessments for animals under veterinary care.
- Responsible for performing daily husbandry to animals under veterinary care, including hospitalized patients and residents in the Special Care Program.
- Follows established protocols for maintaining clean and safe habitats, including perches, substrates, pools, heaters, humidifiers, and air purifiers.
- Provides diets for animals to maintain optimal nutrition, including assembling individualized diets and adding supplements following standard operating procedures.
- Provides approved enrichment to animals following National Aviary protocols.
- Capable of handling birds in a safe manner, including a variety of bird species.
- Continually learns and increases proficiency in patient assessments, including evaluating behavior, appetite, activity, and engagement. Assists with hospitalized patient recovery evaluations and reports improvements or concerns to supervisors.
- Actively participates in skill training sessions conducted by veterinarians and veterinary managers.
- Maintains animal habitat sanitation and cleanliness, included but not limited to cleaning habitats, washing dishes, and doing laundry.
- Maintains hospital rooms with a high level of sanitation and cleanliness, included but not limited to cleaning foot baths, floors, and sinks.
- Actively gives supervisors progress reports on animal care and hospital projects.
- Assists with stocking medical supplies in hospital areas, such as instruments, treatment supplies, and equipment.
- Assists veterinary team with administering treatments in food items, orally, topically, and with bandage changes.
- Assists veterinary team with setting up and completing medical procedures, such as examinations and diagnostic tests. Assists with primary, emergency, preventative, and geriatric health care practices.
- Assists veterinary team with the National Aviary Teaching Hospital by participating in pre-veterinary student educational programs in animal care practices.
- Participates in veterinary team meetings to discuss and plan animal care, veterinary department projects, and aviary activities.
- Maintains a high level of professional work behavior and conduct. Promotes team-work and positive communication.
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 Veterinary Care Assistant has no supervisory responsibilities.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Knowledgeable and experienced in animal husbandry and nutrition practices.
- Has a general knowledge of avian behavior and natural biology.
- Experienced in maintaining high level sanitation practices with animal care.
- Familiarity with veterinary health care including primary and preventative health care practices.
- Competency in handling animals for general care.
- Strong organizational skills and work habits.
- Adaptable to change within a hospital setting.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Competency in following protocols with accuracy.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum requirement of 1 year of zoo, wildlife, or other animal care experience is preferred.
- Degree in biology, animal behavior, or a field associated with animal care is preferred.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
- Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record Check
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee must possess the manual dexterity required to perform the job duties. The employee may be required to stand for long periods of time. The employee constantly positions self in 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 sharps, knives, scissors, and hoses. 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. The employee is may be exposed to biohazards such as radiographs, chemicals, and infectious agents.
POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:
The candidate must be able to work on weekdays, weekends, and holidays and occasionally in the evening as job duties demand.
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Veterinary Care Assistant (Full-time)
Reports to: Assistant Manager of Veterinary Department & Assistant Manager of Veterinary Department
Status: Non-Exempt, Full-time
Department: Veterinary Hospital
Date: September 2023
Please submit your cover letter, application, and resume to Jess Lindberg, jess.lindberg@aviary.org.
SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:
The Veterinary Care Assistant provides husbandry, diets, and enrichment for animals under veterinary care, and assists with hospital procedures and maintenance.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Supports the National Aviary’s mission to inspire a respect for nature through an appreciation of birds and its goals of providing high quality visitor experiences, educational programs, and conservation messaging.
Adheres to all National Aviary protocols and procedures.
Maintains a strong understanding of the principles that underlie animal welfare in the zoological field and supports the National Aviary’s Animal Welfare Program.
Maintains understanding of the welfare indicators for the species and individual animals under their care.
Assists with preparing welfare assessments for animals under veterinary care.
Responsible for performing daily husbandry to animals under veterinary care, including hospitalized patients and residents in the Special Care Program.
Follows established protocols for maintaining clean and safe habitats, including perches, substrates, pools, heaters, humidifiers, and air purifiers.
Provides diets for animals to maintain optimal nutrition, including assembling individualized diets and adding supplements following standard operating procedures.
Provides approved enrichment to animals following National Aviary protocols.
Capable of handling birds in a safe manner, including a variety of bird species.
Continually learns and increases proficiency in patient assessments, including evaluating behavior, appetite, activity, and engagement. Assists with hospitalized patient recovery evaluations and reports improvements or concerns to supervisors.
Actively participates in skill training sessions conducted by veterinarians and veterinary managers.
Maintains animal habitat sanitation and cleanliness, included but not limited to cleaning habitats, washing dishes, and doing laundry.
Maintains hospital rooms with a high level of sanitation and cleanliness, included but not limited to cleaning foot baths, floors, and sinks.
Actively gives supervisors progress reports on animal care and hospital projects.
Assists with stocking medical supplies in hospital areas, such as instruments, treatment supplies, and equipment.
Assists veterinary team with administering treatments in food items, orally, topically, and with bandage changes.
Assists veterinary team with setting up and completing medical procedures, such as examinations and diagnostic tests. Assists with primary, emergency, preventative, and geriatric health care practices.
Assists veterinary team with the National Aviary Teaching Hospital by participating in pre-veterinary student educational programs in animal care practices.
Participates in veterinary team meetings to discuss and plan animal care, veterinary department projects, and aviary activities.
Maintains a high level of professional work behavior and conduct. Promotes team-work and positive communication.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 Veterinary Care Assistant has no supervisory responsibilities.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledgeable and experienced in animal husbandry and nutrition practices.
Has a general knowledge of avian behavior and natural biology.
Experienced in maintaining high level sanitation practices with animal care.
Familiarity with veterinary health care including primary and preventative health care practices.
Competency in handling animals for general care.
Strong organizational skills and work habits.
Adaptable to change within a hospital setting.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Competency in following protocols with accuracy.EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
Minimum requirement of 1 year of zoo, wildlife, or other animal care experience is preferred.
Degree in biology, animal behavior, or a field associated with animal care is preferred.OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse History Certification
Satisfactory FBI Criminal Record CheckPHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee must possess the manual dexterity required to perform the job duties. The employee may be required to stand for long periods of time. The employee constantly positions self in 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 sharps, knives, scissors, and hoses. 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. The employee is may be exposed to biohazards such as radiographs, chemicals, and infectious agents.
POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:
The candidate must be able to work on weekdays, weekends, and holidays and occasionally in the evening as job duties demand.
Internships
The National Aviary will be accepting applications for 2023 internships during the following periods:
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 InternshipsVolunteering 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.
Learn more about volunteer opportunities here.
Become a volunteer to meet new people and engage in lifelong learning!
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The National Aviary is an Equal Opportunity Employer.