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How much do aviculturist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviculturist in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aviculturist?

An aviculturist is a professional who specializes in the care, breeding, and management of birds, particularly in captivity. Their work often involves raising birds for conservation, research, education, or commercial purposes such as zoos, aviaries, and bird breeding facilities. Aviculturists are responsible for maintaining healthy environments, monitoring bird health, and sometimes participating in reintroduction programs for endangered species. They require knowledge of avian biology, nutrition, and behavior to ensure the well-being of the birds under their care.

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

To thrive as an Aviculturist, you need a solid background in animal science, avian biology, and husbandry practices, often supported by a degree in zoology or related fields. Familiarity with animal record-keeping software, aviary management systems, and sometimes certifications in animal care or wildlife management are typical requirements. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for monitoring bird health and collaborating with teams. These skills ensure the well-being of bird populations, support conservation efforts, and promote operational efficiency in aviary settings.

What are some common challenges faced by aviculturists when working with diverse bird species?

Aviculturists often encounter challenges related to managing the specific dietary, environmental, and behavioral needs of different bird species. Each species may require unique habitats, social structures, and enrichment activities to thrive, making detailed observation and adaptability essential. Additionally, maintaining biosecurity and preventing the spread of disease is a constant concern, especially in facilities housing multiple species. Collaboration with veterinarians, researchers, and other animal care staff is vital to ensure the health and well-being of the birds.

Who are the top companies hiring for Aviculturist jobs?

The top employers for Aviculturist jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Aviculturist jobs?

For Aviculturist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Aviculturist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aviculturist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Zoological Specialist, Associate Aviculturist (Part-time)

San Antonio, TX • On-site

SeaWorld
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about SeaWorldexternal

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

At SeaWorld, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

What you get to do:
Enthusiastically represents SeaWorld by displaying a positive attitude, high level of energy and commitment to quality throughout all aspects of the job. Provide for proper nutrition, appropriate and sanitary living conditions, and constant care for our park animals. These positions safely fulfill duties in animal/guest interactions, animal training, husbandry, enrichment, general public presentations, and research:

  • Perform daily husbandry tasks including administration of vitamins as directed, food preparation, maintaining a safe and sanitary working area for all animal habitats as directed by area leadership.
  • Responsible for guest, personal, and animal safety by developing awareness of the behavioral precursors of potentially harmful behavior by both animals and people.
  • Make daily observations of animals and report any abnormalities to staff supervisor and team.
  • Maintain all animal records, equipment, area responsibilities, and communication requirements daily.
  • Provide and maintain a work environment that follows the established guidelines and safety procedures set by the department and park.
  • Function as an Ambassador by displaying consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability. Maintain a consistent attitude, motivation, and ability to accept feedback.
  • Successfully represents company in Public Relations or Media situations/events.
  • Perform all supportive roles in education and general public presentations to develop speaking skills and stage presence. Perform primary roles as assigned by area leadership.
  • Engage in and execute all aspects of guest interaction programs.
  • Provide proactive guest service through guest interactions, pre and post presentation interactions, and responding to guest inquiries.
  • Work with animals using behavioral modification techniques as instructed. Train behavior to completion under minimal supervision.
  • Other duties as assigned by leadership.


What it takes to succeed:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Entry level position.
  • No prerequisite of professional zoological experience.
  • Have high school diploma or equivalent. College background in psychology, zoology or biology is a plus.
  • Must be able to swim and participate in a lifeguard certification class.
  • Have a working knowledge of the English language with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Basic math skills required.
  • Be able to stand, walk, and work for prolonged periods of time in extreme weather conditions.
  • Be willing to work a flexible schedule to include weekdays, weekends, evenings, overnights and holidays.
  • Ability to receive CPR certification.
  • Consistently practices safe work habits including, but not limited to the use of personal protective equipment, lifting and reporting of unsafe situations.
  • Be willing to comply with, and ensure Ambassadors comply with, all SEA grooming guidelines and employment standards.
  • Be able to successfully complete all legal, company, and department training requirements to include but not limited to passing required tests and certifications within established timelines.


What else is important:

  • Must be able to liftpush/pull up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat and cold temperatures.
  • Consistently practices safe work habits including but not limited to the use of personal protective equipment, lifting, and reporting of unsafe situations.

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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