Aviculture Specialist II: Bird Welfare & Breeding

Colossal Biosciences; Dallas (TX); On-site; Full time

Job description

An affiliate of Colossal is seeking an Animal Husbandry Specialist II, Aviculture, to serve as a member of the Animal Husbandry Team. The specialist will provide the highest level of care and welfare for the animals under our oversight. The Aviculture Team cares for a diverse collection of bird species including both exotics and domestics. This position reports to the Manager of Animal Husbandry and works closely with Colossal’s Head of Animal Husbandry.

This position will be based out of the Dallas area with ~10% travel required. Relocation assistance is available.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform daily husbandry for a large and diverse collection of birds
• Maintain animal habitats and surrounding areas, husbandry equipment, and tools.
• Closely monitor and document animal behavior, health and wellbeing, recording these in the record keeping system and reporting issues to leadership.
• Create habitats that promote successful breeding and optimal welfare for bird species.
• Assist veterinary and research staff with medical exams, procedures, and treatments.
• Stay up to date on developments in aviculture by researching industry best practices and networking with industry professionals.
• Develop training and enrichment plans and schedules for Colossal species.
• Prepare diets for bird species.
• Assist with incubation and hand-rearing.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong abilities in the areas of animal handling for veterinary care.
• Expertise in avian animal care and conservation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Practiced interpersonal and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to thrive and work well with others in a team environment.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong emotional intelligence and passion for building relationships across all levels of an organization.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a growth‑oriented, nimble environment.

Education and Experience

• AA/AS/BA/BS in a Biological Science is preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in aviculture.
• Previous experience with breeding of exotic birds, egg incubation, and hand‑rearing are preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform strenuous work and lift at least 50 pounds.
• Ability to sit, stand, bend and stoop.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in a typical Dallas area climate and under field conditions (heat, humidity, plant allergens, insects, etc.).
• Ability to work weekends, holidays and evenings as needed.

What Colossal Offers Full‑Time Employees

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Excellent paid time off and company holidays so you can rest and recharge
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Company matched 401k retirement plan
• Paid parental leave at 100% salary for up to 12 weeks
• Education reimbursement
• An opportunity to help us return the Earth to a healthier state

Colossal is proud to be an equal employment opportunity workplace. We welcome people from all backgrounds as well as celebrate and support diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment of mutual respect that is free from discrimination and harassment so everyone can thrive.

EEO is the Law