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 keeper Aquarist works with the Husbandry team to accomplish established goals aimed at excellence in animal care and guest experience.
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:
- Bachelor of Science degree in biology or related field from a recognized, accredited institution.
- 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 of professional animal care and welfare standards.
- A basic knowledge of water chemistry and the nitrogen cycle for water quality monitoring
- Ability to communicate effectively and work with a team to provide consistency and advancement in animal care.
- Ability to engage guests in pursuit of education and conservation goals. This includes chats, tours, media appearances, ambassador animal programs, etc.
- Understanding/ experience with care of aquatic animals/ systems in a professional setting with demonstrated success.
- 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.
- Must have the ability to work weekends and holidays
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
Nice-to-Haves:
- Experience at AZA accredited public facility is preferred
- SCUBA certification is preferred
- First Aid/ CPR is preferred
Physical Requirements:
- 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
