Keauhou Bird Conservation Center Avian Recovery Specialist - Wildlife Alliance

Keauhou Bird Conservation Center Avian Recovery Specialist
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Volcano, HI 96785, USA

Posted Friday, July 31, 2026 at 10:00 AM | Expires Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 9:59 AM

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

The Avian Recovery Specialist assists with the recovery of avian species by performing daily care and husbandry of endangered avian species. The position feeds and provides general care and welfare of the assigned avian species. Collects data on avian behavior and breeding; works to prepare birds for breeding and reproduction for eventual release into native habitat. This position reports to a Wildlife Care Supervisor or higher.

• Prepares and provides proper husbandry including but not limited to food, water, housing, enrichment materials and structures to promote breeding activity and a thriving environment for assigned animals; evaluates needs of avian species under care and adjusts activities to fit the needs of the animals.
• Prepares and provides proper food and water for animals under care; unloads, and stores food for animals in proper environment.
• Cleans and maintains enclosures, and other areas as assigned according to center standards.
• Observes assigned animals.
• Maintains appropriate health and behavior records on assigned animals, record(s) data using spreadsheets and database systems.
• Performs minor or routine maintenance on enclosures.
• Assists medical staff in treating assigned animals as well as runs diagnostic testing, administers medications and treatments to assigned animals as directed by vet staff.

We are looking for a candidate knowledgeable of the biocultural heritage of Hawaiian birds and understanding of some of the broader conservation efforts in the islands. An ideal candidate will have a strong base knowledge of endemic Hawaiian species including birds and plants, Hawaiian forest ecosystems, and familiar with conventional use of the Hawaiian language (e.g., place names, common species names, etc.).

Flexibility and reliability are essential, as the role may require working weekends and adapting to a dynamic schedule. This role involves hands‑on animal care, facility maintenance, and supporting scientific research efforts.

• Experience with environmental conservation or education is preferred.
• Prior animal care experience is a plus.

• Some college preferred.
• Education, training, and/or 1 year experience which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined required.

• Basic understanding of animal husbandry, care, and welfare needs required.
• Basic Understanding of Avian behavior;
  Avian biology and anatomy; zoology preferred.
• Basic Understanding of Care, feeding, and housing of exotic animal preferred.
• Basic Understanding of Safety practices for working with wild avian species preferred.
• Basic Understanding of Monitoring avian behavior and appearance.
• Ability to use common computer programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, or other email systems) and Internet required.
• Ability to learn computer-based record-keeping systems (ZIMS, Survey 123, and others) preferred.
• Ability to learn and perform data and sample gathering techniques required.
• Ability to work in a diverse team environment and motivate others required.
• Ability to work in a team environment and independently required.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and prioritize work needed during specific time frames required.
• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with others required.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with others required.
• Ability to understand and follow directions effectively required.
• Must adhere to the organization's policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Ability to accept responsibility and be accountable required.
• Ability to make decisions that support the goals of the…