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.

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Employment Opportunities

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  • Crewmember (Full-time)

    Reports to: Manager of Buildings & Grounds

    Department: Buildings & Grounds

    Status: Non-exempt, Full-time

    Date: June, 2025

    Interested applicants should send their resume, cover letter, and application to Kevin Fonner, [email protected]

    SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:

    The Buildings & Grounds Crewmember is an important role in the Buildings & Grounds Department. The Crewmember is responsible for creating a clean, safe, disinfected and comfortable environment for the National Aviary’s animal residents, 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 cleaning procedures and techniques preferred
    • Ability to learn the use of a variety of custodial equipment, supplies and materials

    EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

    • High school diploma or GED required
    • Some experience in cleaning / maintenance / service industry preferred

    OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

    • Satisfactory Pennsylvania State Police
    • Criminal Record Check 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.

  • Guest Operations Associate (Seasonal)

    Reports to: Assistant Manager of Retail Services

    Department: Guest Operations

    Status: Non-exempt, Part-time

    Date: July, 2025

    Interested applicants should send their resume, cover letter, and application to Cindy Fisher, [email protected].

    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.
    • 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.
    • 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.  

  • Husbandry Assistant (Part-time)

    Reports to: Manager of Behavioral Husbandry and Training

    Department: Animal Programs

    Status: Non-exempt, Part-time (3 days, 24 hours/week)

    Date: September, 2025

    Interested applicants should send their resume, cover letter, and application to Jenny Walsh, [email protected].

    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.

  • Veterinary Technician (Full-time)

    Reports to: Manager of Veterinary Department and Assistant Manager of Veterinary Department

    Department: Veterinary Hospital 

    Status: Non-exempt, Full-time

    Date: October, 2025

    Interested applicants should send their resume, cover letter, and application to Jess Lindberg, [email protected]

    SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE:

    The Veterinary Technician provides medical care to the patients, assists with emergencies and preventative medicine plans, maintains hospital sanitation, maintains inventory system, and assists in training veterinary interns.

    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
    • Interacts with visitors utilizing the Aviary Visitor Engagement protocol. Initiates visitor engagement opportunities. Participates in visitor experiences and hospital tours.
    • 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.
    • Completes formal welfare assessments regularly.
    • Responsible for proficiently getting birds out of their habitats and holding the birds in a safe and effective manner for examinations, tests, and treatments. Must be able to handle a variety of bird species from the 150+ different species at the National Aviary.
    • Continually learns and increases proficiency in medical skills such as patient assessments, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Actively participates in training sessions conducted by veterinarians and veterinary supervisors.   
    • Follows hospital protocols regarding patient care, drug administration, medical procedures, medical records, and communications.
    • Responsible for performing daily husbandry and providing optimal nutrition to patients in wards following standard operating procedures. Provides approved enrichments to patients following National Aviary protocols.
    • Assesses hospitalized patient recoveries and report medical improvements or concerns following hospital protocol.
    • Assesses patient target weight, body condition, and weight changes.
    • Medicates patients daily including oral, injectable, inhaled, and topical therapies. Assists with maintaining pharmacy inventory. Dispenses prescriptions efficiently and according to regulations.
    • Sets up, assists, or performs diagnostic testing, included but not limited to, blood work, fecal tests, cytology, and x-rays following protocols.
    • Triages critical emergencies quickly and efficiently following protocols. Maintains ICU and assess patients daily.
    • Assists with or performs wound management and bandage changes.
    • Assists with necropsies: gross, collect histology samples, and special tests. Maintains necropsy records.
    • Implements Preventative Medicine Protocol including administering vaccinations, parasite treatments, and disease screening. Perform basic grooming of beak, nail, and wing trims.
    • Checks the status of exhibit bird health through rounds, reports, and trainer meetings. Communicates updates to supervisors.
    • Performs husbandry for Isolation and Quarantine patients. Follows biosecurity protocols, including foot baths, net dips, disinfecting medical equipment, medical clothing, & glove barriers.
    • Assists with bird shipment testing and medical evaluations for health certificates.
    • Maintains the hospital wards and buildings in a clean and orderly manner; including but not limited to laundry, floors, cages, and equipment sanitation.
    • Maintains the hospital equipment, included but not limited to oxygen, autoclave, hepafilters, humidifiers, and heaters.
    • Stocks and organizes all hospital rooms. Analyzes and suggests new methods to improve efficiency. Assists with purchases, unpacking, stocking, and rotating inventory.
    • Maintains medical records system and ZIMS database.
    • Assists with the National Aviary Teaching Hospital educational programs by training pre-veterinary, veterinary, and veterinary technician students in basic animal care skills and standard zoo protocols.
    • Participates in hospital scheduling meetings to implement medical plans and projects. Works closely with other Vet Tech I’s in the team to give project progress reports to supervisors.
    • Maintains a high level of professional work behavior and conduct. Promotes team-work and positive communication. Regularly communicates with supervisory staff reporting patient assessments and discussing any concerns or questions.

    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 Technician has no supervisory responsibilities.  

    SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

    • Knowledgeable and experienced in hospital departments: Hospital Wards, ICU, Isolation, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Necropsy, Radiology, Surgery & Anesthesia, Quarantine, Shipments, Central Supply, Medical Records, Hospital Maintenance, Intern Programs, and Visitor Programs.
    • Competency in the following avian medicine skills, including but not limited to, physical examinations, diagnostic testing, radiographs, and pharmacy.
    • Knowledgeable and experienced with handling a variety of avian species, their natural biology, behavior, husbandry, nutrition, and enrichment requirements.
    • Strong organizational skills.
    • Strong oral and written communication skills.
    • Computer and medical records skills.
    • Familiarity with ZIMS database preferred.
    • Strong presentation skills, as well as the ability to interact and communicate with a variety of audiences in a professional and engaging manner
    • Familiarity with standard zoo practices including quarantine, preventative medicine, health certificates, breeding programs, and operant training.

    EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

    • Minimum requirement of 1 year of zoo, wildlife rehabilitation, or hospital experience is preferred.
    • Veterinary Technician Associate Degree or Zoo Animal Technology Associate Degree 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. They regularly operates surgical equipment and x-ray machines. 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 regularly exposed to biohazards such as radiation, oxygen tanks, carcinogens, toxins, chemicals, and infectious agents.  

    POSITION TYPE/ EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

    This position is full time including both Saturday and Sunday.

Internships

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. For information on application periods and additional Internships, click the link below!

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Volunteering with the National Aviary

The National Aviary is accepting applications for select positions allowing volunteers to engage with Aviary visitors in free-flight habitats responsibly.

Learn more about volunteering here.

Already a volunteer? Login here.

The National Aviary is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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