Aviculture Specialist

Aviculture Specialist- LTE

Over the past 50 years, The International Crane Foundation (ICF) has grown from the dream of two college students to a world-renowned conservation effort to save the world’s cranes and the flyways and habitats they frequent. The husbandry of our captive flock of 100+ cranes is an important part of our mission. ICF operates a discovery center that features all 15 of the world’s cranes and is located on 200+ acres of rolling prairies with trails. The Aviculture Specialist supports the mission of ICF by providing the highest standards of avian husbandry and supporting the health and well-being of the residential adult flock. This position is responsible for the daily care of the birds and the maintenance of habitats. You must be able to work as an integral team member and communicate effectively with coworkers, colleagues, volunteers, and guests. The Aviculture Specialist is expected to work between 30-40 hours per week; working weekends and holidays will be required. This is a limited term position at our Baraboo, WI headquarters with a start date in June/ July and ending in March/ April, starting wage is $15.50 per hour.

About the role

Key responsibilities include performing daily husbandry tasks such as cleaning crane shelter areas, providing fresh water and food, and maintaining accurate records in our database. The successful candidate will also assist in managing the flock to support institutional collection goals and the annual breeding program, which includes egg incubation and parent-rearing of chicks. Seasonal duties involve vegetation management, annual disinfection of crane shelters, repair work, snow removal, installation of cameras, and pen rotations.

This position supports our behavioral husbandry and welfare programs through the evaluation of enrichment, participation in operant conditioning plans, and conducting animal well-being assessments. Additional responsibilities include assisting in the training of apprentices and visiting colleagues, working closely with veterinary staff to support flock health, and facilitating internal communication through meetings and database updates. There may also be opportunities to participate in on-site outreach activities, such as keeper talks or VIP tours.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate for this position will have a GED or high school diploma and, preferably, paid experience caring for captive wildlife. They should be comfortable working in outdoor environments and field conditions, often in varying weather and terrain. Flexibility in scheduling is essential, as the role requires availability on weekends and holidays to meet the needs of the animals and the facility. A valid state driver’s license and a clean driving record are necessary for transportation and on-site duties. Preferred qualifications include prior experience at an AZA-accredited institution, which demonstrates familiarity with industry standards and best practices. Knowledge of both native and invasive species of Wisconsin is highly valued, as is the ability to safely and effectively operate various hand and power tools, such as brush mowers, string trimmers, pressure washers, and the use of trucks and trailers for maintenance and transport tasks.

Apply today to be a part of this unique opportunity to contribute to the conservation of one of the world’s most endangered bird species through meaningful, hands-on aviculture work!