Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park
- At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature.
- Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact.
- We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change.
- We strive to Create Connection by engaging with people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world.
- At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating our unique heritage while advancing our mission.
- As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.
What You’ll Do
- The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is looking for a motivated individual to add to its Husbandry staff as a keeper for a diverse collection of fishes.
- This is an entry-level, part-time position working 29 hours a week on a set schedule.
- This position works with the Husbandry team to accomplish established goals aimed at excellence in animal care and guest experience.
- Must have the ability to work weekends and holidays possess a valid driver’s license.
Day to Day Responsibilities
- Provides a high standard of animal care. Understanding of professional animal care and welfare standards. Prioritizes preventative care and excellence in animal welfare.
- A basic knowledge of water chemistry and the nitrogen cycle for water quality monitoring.
- Follow training (operant conditioning) and enrichment SOPs to accomplish behavior and welfare goals.
- Administers prescribed treatments and assists with procedures as needed.
- Follows direction and act in accordance with all established protocols and procedures.
- Compliance with all AZA and USDA standards.
- Follows all SOPs as written to facilitate good animal welfare and safety.
- Responsible for all aspects of exhibit maintenance. Able to accomplish daily tasks within acceptable/ established timeframe.
- Monitors exhibit functionality, air and water parameters, identifying and communicating anomalies/ concerns in a timely fashion.
- Accurate recordkeeping for short- and long-term monitoring of health, behavior, tracking trends and advancing animal practices.
- Participation in professional development as assigned.
- Ability to communicate effectively and work with a team to provide consistency and advancement in animal care. Assists with oversight of volunteers and interns.
- Ability to engage guests in pursuit of education and conservation goals.
- This includes chats, tours, media appearances, ambassador animal programs, etc.
- Able to represent Audubon Nature Institute with professionalism and in support of mission-oriented efforts.
Additional/Overall Skills:
- Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
- Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
- Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
- Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.
- The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.
What We’re Looking For
Must Haves:
- High School diploma (or equivalent) and a degree from a recognized college or university are required. College course work in zoology, biology, animal science or related field is preferred.
- Accurate oral and written communication skills.
- Minimum of one year of unpaid or paid experience in a zoological facility, public aquarium, or similar facility OR demonstrated and confirmed skill set.
- Understanding/ experience with care of aquatic animals/ systems in a professional setting with demonstrated success.
- Experience at AZA accredited public facility is preferred.
- Has understanding/ experience with the species under their care or has worked with similar taxa.
- Has an understanding of natural history, anatomy, behavior, and environmental parameters.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
Nice-to-Haves:
- (preferred for the role)
- SCUBA certification strongly preferred.
- First Aid/CPR preferred
- Physical Requirements: (Add per list provided based on role type)
- Continuous standing, walking, lifting, bending, and twisting.
- Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry objects weighing over 50 pounds, often repeatedly.
- Regularly climbing ladders and operating heavy machinery.
- Sustained manual dexterity and coordination.
- Physical stamina for long shifts involving repetitive or strenuous tasks.
- Primarily outdoor environments or industrial settings.
- Frequent exposure to heat, cold, dust, fumes, or loud noises.
- Exposure to potential hazards such as heavy machinery, moving vehicles, or electrical equipment.
- Must be willing and able to handle raw seafood.
