Join Our Team as a Senior Wildlife Keeper – Making a Difference in Conservation

Are you experienced in aviculture and passionate about wildlife conservation? Become a valued member of our leading team, where your expertise in avian husbandry will make a real and positive impact. We are searching for a proactive, knowledgeable, and collaborative professional to help advance our mission of promoting the highest standards in avian welfare, breeding, and environmental education. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and value innovation, well-being, and inclusivity, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and deliver expert avian husbandry, health monitoring, and enrichment programmes for our extensive bird collection, ensuring optimal welfare at all times.
Monitor breeding programmes, from courtship through to fledging, and support endangered species initiatives in alignment with our conservation goals.
Maintain high standards in aviary hygiene, biosecurity, and record keeping, fully compliant with industry regulations and organisational policies.
Mentor and provide knowledge-sharing & supporting other keepers, fostering continual professional development and a positive team culture.
Participate in research, data collection, reporting projects, and collaboration with partner organisations to advance aviculture best practices and species management.

Skills, Experience and Attributes

Proven experience (minimum 5 years) in aviculture, ideally in a zoo, sanctuary, or conservation setting with diverse avian species ideally Parakeets and Wetland bird species.
Strong working knowledge of avian biology, behavior, breeding, dietary requirements, welfare, and environmental enrichment techniques.
Confidence in leading and developing teams, with excellent mentoring, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Competence using animal management software and digital record systems ideally ZIMS.
Practical, solutions-oriented attitude and ability to make clear decisions under pressure.
Committed to upholding a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace at all times.
Legal right to work in New Zealand is essential.

Hours - Full time - Fortnightly Roster - including working every second weekend

Benefits – Careers in Aviculture and Wildlife Conservation

Permanent, Full-time Role: Join a stable, future-focused team dedicated to wildlife preservation.
Competitive Remuneration: Attractive hourly rate aligned with your skills and experience in aviculture and team leadership.
Inclusive Culture: Work in an open, professional environment committed to diversity, well-being, and respect.

How to Apply - Closing Date 19th January 2025

If you are ready to advance your career and play a vital role in avian welfare and conservation, we warmly welcome your application. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace for all backgrounds. Our recruitment team will be back in on the 12 January 2026 to review and respond to applications.

Eligibility & Next Steps

Applicants must hold the legal right to work in New Zealand. The successful candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol screening.

Apply now and help shape the future of wildlife aviculture, contributing to the conservation and care of exceptional avian species!

Senior Wildlife Aviculturist Keeper

Bring your experience and passion for conservation and aviculture to join our team based in Christchurch & Apply today!