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Avian Vet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MSPCA Angell

Veterinary Technician - Anesthesia

Boston, MA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Additional pay for On-call. Angell Animal Medical Center is looking for a certified vet technician ... avian and exotic patients. * Our full compensation package includes Blue Cross health insurance ...

MSPCA-Angell

Veterinary Technician - Anesthesia

Boston, MA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Additional pay for On-call. Angell Animal Medical Center is looking for a certified vet technician ... avian and exotic patients. * Our full compensation package includes Blue Cross health insurance ...

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How much do avian vet jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for avian vet in the United States is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Avian Vet?

An Avian Vet, or avian veterinarian, is a licensed veterinarian who specializes in the medical care of birds. These professionals have advanced knowledge and training in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and injuries specific to avian species, from pet birds like parrots to wild or exotic birds. Avian vets also provide guidance on nutrition, behavior, and husbandry to help ensure the health and well-being of birds under their care. Many avian vets are members of organizations such as the Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) and may hold board certification in avian medicine.

Are avian vets in demand?

Avian veterinarians are in growing demand due to increased pet bird ownership and specialized care needs. They often work in clinics, zoos, or research settings, requiring advanced training and certification in avian medicine, which contributes to steady job opportunities in the field.

What are some common challenges Avian Vets face when diagnosing bird patients, and how can new veterinarians prepare for them?

Avian Vets often encounter challenges due to birds' ability to hide symptoms and the species' unique anatomy and physiology. New veterinarians can prepare by gaining hands-on experience during internships, studying avian-specific diseases, and developing strong observation skills. It's also important to communicate closely with bird owners to gather detailed histories, as subtle behavioral changes can be key diagnostic clues. Building proficiency in gentle handling and restraint techniques is crucial for both accurate exams and minimizing stress for avian patients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Avian Vet, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Avian Vet, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, specialized training or certification in avian medicine, and strong diagnostic and surgical skills. Familiarity with avian-specific diagnostic tools, laboratory equipment, and veterinary management software is typically required. Exceptional communication, patience, and attention to detail help in educating pet owners and managing the unique challenges of avian patients. These skills ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and high-quality care for birds, which often have subtle and complex health needs.

How much does a bird vet make?

A bird veterinarian, or avian vet, typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and practice size. Salaries can vary based on certifications, specialized skills, and whether they work in private clinics or wildlife centers.

How hard is it to become an avian vet?

Becoming an avian vet requires completing a bachelor's degree, attending veterinary school, and gaining specialized training in avian medicine through internships or residencies. The process typically takes 8-10 years and involves passing licensing exams, with a strong focus on biology, animal care, and clinical skills. It is a competitive field that demands dedication and a passion for bird health.

What is the highest paid veterinary job?

The highest paid veterinary jobs are often specialized roles such as veterinary surgeons or specialists in fields like cardiology, oncology, or neurology. These positions typically require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and often involve working in private practices, teaching hospitals, or research institutions, with salaries significantly higher than general practice veterinarians.
More about Avian Vet jobs
What states have the most Avian Vet jobs? States with the most job openings for Avian Vet jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Avian Vet jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Avian Vet jobs are:
Avian Vet jobs near you
Infographic showing various Avian Vet job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,144 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Maui Bird Conservation Center Avian Recovery Specialist - Full Time - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alli...

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Makawao, HI • On-site

$31.98/hr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Avian Recovery Specialist assists with the recovery of avian species by performing daily care and husbandry of endangered avian species. The position feeds and provides general care and welfare of the assigned avian species. Collects data on avian behavior and breeding; works to prepare birds for breeding and reproduction for eventual release into native habitat. This position reports to a Wildlife Care Supervisor or higher.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Prepares and provides proper husbandry including but not limited to food, water, housing, enrichment materials and structures to promote breeding activity and a thriving environment for assigned animals; evaluates needs of avian species under care and adjusts activities to fit the needs of the animals.
  • Prepares and provides proper food and water for animals under care; unloads, and stores food for animals in proper environment.
  • Cleans and maintains enclosures, and other areas as assigned according to center standards.
  • Observes assigned animals.
  • Maintains appropriate health and behavior records on assigned animals, record(s) data using spreadsheets and database systems.
  • Performs minor or routine maintenance on enclosures.
  • Assists medical staff in treating assigned animals as well as runs diagnostic testing, administers medications and treatments to assigned animals as directed by vet staff.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR
We are looking for a candidate knowledgeable of the biocultural heritage of Hawaiian birds and understanding of some of the broader conservation efforts in the islands. An ideal candidate will have a strong base knowledge of endemic Hawaiian species including birds and plants, Hawaiian forest ecosystems, and familiar with conventional use of the Hawaiian language (e.g., place names, common species names, etc.). Flexibility and reliability are essential, as the role may require working weekends and adapting to a dynamic schedule. This role involves hands-on animal care, facility maintenance, and supporting scientific research efforts.
  • JOB EXPERIENCE
    • Experience with environmental conservation or education is preferred.
    • Prior animal care experience is a plus.

  • EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
    • Some college preferred.
    • Education, training, and/or 1 year experience which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined required.

  • SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
    • Basic understanding of animal husbandry, care, and welfare needs required.
    • Basic Understanding of Avian behavior; Avian biology and anatomy; zoology preferred.
    • Basic Understanding of Care, feeding, and housing of exotic animal preferred.
    • Basic Understanding of Safety practices for working with wild avian species preferred.
    • Basic Understanding of Monitoring avian behavior and appearance.
    • Ability to use common computer programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, or other email systems) and Internet required.
    • Ability to learn computer-based record-keeping systems (ZIMS, Survey 123, and others) preferred.
    • Ability to learn and perform data and sample gathering techniques required.
    • Ability to work in a diverse team environment and motivate others required.
    • Ability to work in a team environment and independently required.
    • Demonstrated ability to multi-task and prioritize work needed during specific timeframes required.
    • Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with others required.
    • Ability to communicate and work effectively with others required.
    • Ability to understand and follow directions effectively required.
    • Must adhere to the organization's policies, procedures, and regulations.
    • Ability to accept responsibility and be accountable required.
    • Ability to make decisions that support the goals of the organization required.
    • Ability to foster a positive work environment that promotes trust and integrity required.
    • Demonstrated ability to share key information with others involved in a project or effort, work in harmony to accomplish objectives, respond with enthusiasm to directives, and show support for departmental and organizational decisions required.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
  • Medical Insurance Options
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS
  • Location: Makawao, HI
  • Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
  • Hourly Rate: $31.98

Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.
If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.

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