Aviculture Team Lead

Birdworld

Surrey

Closing date for applications is: 27th Feb 2023

Birdworld is currently at an exciting time of largescale development. We are seeking a full-time Aviculture Team Lead. This position will be key to shaping the bird team, driving the collection forward and securing a dynamic future for the park.

Set within 26 acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens, Birdworld is one of the largest bird parks in the country and is home to a diverse collection of species.

Supporting the Living Collections Manager, you will play a decisive role, offering guidance and supervision within the team. Focus time on the day-to-day running of the diverse aviculture collection.

Successful candidate will:

• Be a good team manager, offering enthusiasm and energy, playing a key part in the new development plans for Birdworld and the bird collection.
• Provide encouragement and guidance in your teams’ career development.
• Motivate and inspire the team daily, directing and planning team-wide projects.
• Establish protocols and develop all things relating to husbandry for the birds.
• Hold an animal related qualification.
• Have minimum four years’ working within a recognised zoological collection, with additional experience in a senior capacity, ideally specialising in birds.
• Experience in incubation and handrearing techniques, or with Penguin husbandry preferrable.
• Have strong communication skills and great time management.
• Have keen observation skills, basic maintenance skills, and be able to prioritise tasks and juggle responsibilities to ensure the highest standard of care across the collection.
• Enjoy, and demonstrate a passion for aviculture, offering exceptional and engaging experiences to our visitors.
• Be physically fit and enjoy working outside in all weathers.

This role offers:

• Full-time position, working 38 hours a week.
• Management of a dedicated aviculture team with various levels of expertise.
• Working with a wide range of fantastic species including penguins, hornbills, parrots, owls, cranes, flamingos and various softbills.
• Widespread opportunities to develop and expand your skills in keeper programmes, and an expectation to participate in industry-lead workshops.

In return for your hard work and dedication, there are a range of benefits attached to this role, including:

• 28 days annual leave for the first year, increasing after 12 months to 33 days.
• Alternate weekends off.
• Paid overtime at standard hourly rate for position.
• Support and encouragement in exploring local and overseas conservation projects.
• Full outdoor-appropriate uniform.
• Staff discount from our shop and food outlets, discount across Haskins Garden Centres, and free complementary Birdworld ticket allowance for family and friends once you have passed you probationary period.
• Pension plan