Raptor Specialist

Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine is seeking applicants for a Raptor Specialist. The individual selected for this position will be responsible for delivering engaging educational presentations about raptors, the role they play in the ecosystem, and the importance of the work the Auburn University Raptor Center does. Additionally, they will participate in every aspect of care, husbandry, and free-flight training for education program raptors.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Depending on the combination of education and experience, the selected finalist will be hired as a Raptor Specialist and assigned level I, II, or III.
• Level I requires a Bachelor’s degree in wildlife sciences, zoology, education, psychology, or related field.
• Level II requires a Bachelor’s degree in wildlife sciences, zoology, education, psychology, or related field plus 2 years of experience in training raptors and participating in public presentations.
• Level III requires a bachelor’s degree in wildlife sciences, zoology, education, psychology, or related field plus 4 years of experience in training raptors and participating in public presentations. Experience must include at least 2 years at the preceding level or equivalent.
• Master Falconer Class Permit or demonstrable knowledge and experience in classical falconry technique and valid driver’s license are required.
• Indicated education is required; no substitutions allowed.

Substitutions allowed for Experience:

• When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Essential Job Functions:

• Conducts engaging on-site and off-site raptor educational programs to include teaching, public speaking, and providing expertise and assistance in outreach efforts.
• Coordinates, collects fees, and maintains records for educational programs.
• Tailors presentations to different age groups, curricula, and audience interests, incorporating relevant conservation messages.
• Maintains, develops, and organizes educational materials, props, artifacts, and equipment.
• Recruits, trains, and supervises volunteers to assist with raptor care, handling, and educational programs.
• Provides daily raptor husbandry and routine maintenance of beaks, talons, equipment, and enclosures.
• Assists in the implementation and assessment of training plans and behavior goals for the education program birds.
• Trains education program birds to participate in free-flight demonstrations.
• Provides public relations for Auburn University and responds to public inquiry about raptors.

Learn more about VET MED and check out our facilities here: https://www.auburnvetmed.com/

Why should YOU work for VET MED?

• Excellent full-time benefits that start on Day 1!
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options for you and your family.
• Generous relocation allowance to make your move easier.
• Competitive state retirement program offering vesting after 10 years of service.
• How about these numbers? 4 weeks of vacation, 96 hours of sick leave, 6 weeks of paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child, and 9 official paid holidays.
• Overnight shift differentials = more $$$ in your pocket.
• Veterinary care and food discounts for your pets.
• Uniform and continuing education allowances.
• Rabies pre-exposure vaccination and titer costs covered by Auburn (for most positions)
• Tuition assistance for you and your dependents after a year of service.
• Opportunities for advancement.

Need we say more? Probably not – but just in case:

About Auburn:

At Auburn, our work changes lives. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a premier public institution, Auburn University is dedicated to shaping the future of the people of Alabama, the nation, and the world through forward-thinking education, life-enhancing research, scholarship and selfless service. Auburn is nationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, community outreach, positive work environment, student engagement, and thriving community.

It’s a Lifestyle: 

The Auburn/Opelika area is a page right out of Southern Living magazine with an idyllic small-town feel, perfecting a unique balance between a close-knit community and driving consistent growth and development. Paralleling the exponential growth of Auburn University, the Auburn/Opelika area boasts services and amenities that cater to any interest. We’re proud of our top school systems, city services, award-winning restaurants, and the infectious spirit of life in a college town. You can find us nestled halfway between the beach and the mountains in a lower-cost-of-living area, two hours outside of Atlanta or Birmingham. If you’re new to Auburn, we’d love to introduce you. If you’re already acquainted with Auburn, we’ll keep it simple: it’s time to come home!

Why employees choose Auburn:

Auburn University was named by Forbes Magazine as one of the state of Alabama’s best employers, with employees staying an average of ten years. Employees enjoy competitive benefits that include top-notch health insurance, generous retirement plans, tuition assistance for employees and dependents, flexible spending accounts and more! Learn more about Auburn’s impact, generous employee benefits, and thriving community by visiting aub.ie/working-at-auburn.

Our Commitment:
Auburn University is committed to a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Visit www.auburn.edu/inclusion to learn more about our commitment to expanding equity and inclusion for all.

AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by applicable law.