Bird Keeper

Position Title:  Bird Keeper

Department:  Avian

Supervisor: Avian Area Supervisor

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Why Work with Us:

At the Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

Description:   

The Bird Keeper is responsible for daily feeding, cleaning, and maintaining dynamic avian habitats—while also contributing to enrichment activities, monitoring animal health, assisting with medical procedures, maintaining accurate records, supporting breeding programs, and connecting with guests through keeper talks and informal education.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Prepare and provide food and water for avian species by accurately cutting, measuring, and portioning diets, including proper use of nutritional supplements.
• Administer feedings in accordance with species-specific needs and dietary schedules.
• Monitor the health and behavior of assigned birds, observing diet intake, physical appearance, and fecal characteristics to detect potential health concerns.
• Conduct husbandry training for birds using positive reinforcement techniques to support cooperative care and veterinary procedures.
• Design and implement enrichment activities to promote natural behaviors and enhance animal welfare.
• Maintain accurate records in the ZIMS database, documenting daily observations, feedings, training progress, and health notes.
• Clean and disinfect exhibits, off-exhibit enclosures, and surrounding service areas to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for animals and staff.
• Assist with animal management operations, including safely capturing, restraining, and relocating birds as directed.
• Support veterinary staff during medical evaluations and treatments by handling birds and providing observational input.
• Safeguard exhibits and animal welfare by monitoring visitor interactions and intervening to prevent inappropriate behavior or damage.
• Sanitize tools and equipment, including feeding utensils, cleaning gear, and transport containers.
• Safely operate equipment such as blowers, pressure washers, and small utility vehicles as needed for daily operations.
• Care for vegetation in and around enclosures to maintain habitat aesthetics and health.
• Perform light maintenance and repairs to exhibit features and fixtures; report major needs to the appropriate supervisor.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of animal behavior, wellness, and recognition of common health conditions.
• Knowledge of care, feeding, and handling techniques for both exotic and domestic bird species.
• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.
• Capability to meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment and maintain consistency in daily routines while being adaptable to unexpected needs or changes in animal care.
• Collaboration skills in dynamic and cross-functional team environments.
• Effective communication and public speaking abilities for leading engaging keeper chats and educational presentations.
• Proficient with small hand tools and equipment.

Education/ Experience:

Degree in zoology, animal biology, animal husbandry or related field is preferred; however, equivalent hands-on experience in animal care or a comparable role will be considered. Priority will be given to candidates with 2+ years of in-depth bird husbandry experience and knowledge.

Physical Responsibilities:

• Must be able to learn and remember tasks and processes, maintain focus and complete tasks independently.
• Responsible for making timely decisions in the context of a workflow and be able to professionally communicate with staff and guests.
• Must have the ability to complete tasks with speed in situations that ensure safety of staff, animals and guests.
• Required to remain alert and engaged while working. Also required to operate equipment and vehicles in a safe manner.
• This role involves working both indoors in temperature-controlled settings and outdoors year-round in typical Tennessee weather, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
• Must be comfortable navigating uneven terrain and working in environments with exposure to dust, allergens, and changing weather conditions.
• Requires the ability to safely move across slippery surfaces, operate in confined or tight spaces, and handle hazardous or toxic materials following safety protocols.
• Regular lifting and carrying of materials up to 25 pounds is required.

Pre-employment requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.