POSITION PURPOSE: 

The role of the Bird Animal Care Technician (ACT) is to provide shelter, safety, and second chances to animals in need. A successful Bird ACT conducts proper care of the animal’s physical and emotional needs enabling them to feel safe, heal, and connect with empathetic humans while waiting for their forever home.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintain cleanliness of all cages, bird Aviaries and other Alaqua Animal Refuge property, as requested, to ensure effective sanitation and operation 
• Adhere to established guidelines and maintain consistency of scheduled feeding times
• Adhere to the monthly Aviary enrichment calendar, promoting physical and mental stimulation
• Monitor, log, and report observed illness, disease, injury, or changes in any of the birds.
• Communicate observations and/or progress of birds to Animal Care Lead and Management
• Maintain logs, boards, and up-to-date pictures on all birds which include the history, health, food guidelines, likes, dislikes, words used, and other general information
• Interact, train, and monitor bird zone volunteers on all aviary procedures and best practices to ensure safety and continuity
• Change out substrate/wood/plant materials as needed
• Prepare and set up new enclosures for incoming birds, ensuring they meet the species-specific needs
• Assist in the training of birds for behavioral conditioning, handling and veterinary procedures using positive reinforcement techniques
• Observe bird behavior and make detailed records of any changes, patterns, or unusual activities
• Conduct other tasks upon request

SUPPORTIVE FUNCTIONS

In addition to performance of the essential functions, this position may be required to perform a combination of the following supportive functions:

• Additional duties as necessary and assigned.
• Assist in animal rescues.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment is outdoors therefore temperatures are decided by mother nature. Noise levels are minimal but are dependent of the animal. Dust, dander, blood, excreta, chemicals and other allergens are common in the work area. Handling of excitable dogs, feral cats, large pigs, horses, sick contagious animals, and injured species is common. Upon employment, all employees are required to fully comply with Alaqua Animal Refuge management rules and regulations for safe and effective operation.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a valid Driver’s License
• Must be able to work standing for 8 hours
• Must be comfortable educating the public regarding animal care and rights
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds repeatedly
• Must be able to bend and kneel repeatedly
• Must have good hearing including ability to distinguish changes in pitch
• Must have a reasonable degree of agility to move through tightly cramped areas in various situations

Experience

Experience working with animals preferred.

Experience in animal training or behavior modification using positive reinforcement techniques preferred.

Experience working in customer service preferred.

Emotional/Mental Requirements

• Must be able to work under stressful conditions work efficiently and effectively

• Ability to rapidly and accurately process information

• Ability to delegate tasks

• Ability to recognize a need for assistance and ask for help

• Ability to work independently and as part of team

• Ability to cope with frustrating situations and remain calm

Education

High school or equivalent education required.