Employment

Join Our Team

Join our team and help us inspire curiosity and caring through our dynamic programs.

Current Openings

  • Horticulture Technician

    Horticulture Technician

    Position Details

    Schedule: 40 hr/ wk, 7:30am-4pm, Sunday – Thursday 

    Compensation: $15-16/ hr, depending on experience

    Benefits: Healthcare, paid time off, sick leave, retirement match up to 3%

    Tracy Aviary Liberty Park Campus & Jordan River Nature Center

    Join the rest of the Tracy Aviary staff and become a steward for the natural world. Inspire curiosity and caring for birds and nature through education and conservation. The Volunteer Coordinator/ Horticulture Technician is responsible for managing the volunteer program and general oversight of a portion of grounds. They will have a deep understanding through accumulated experience and education of appropriate horticultural practices for the Intermountain West and be able to consider bird species and exhibit planning. They possess a drive to educate and inspire peers, volunteers, and interns through problem solving, creativity of design, and organization.

    Primary Duties

    • Maintain Tracy Aviary gardens by use of appropriate pruning, planting, transplanting, propagation, weeding, and irrigation
    • Outreach to guests, community, Tracy Aviary education camps, etc. including tours and guest experiences
    • Lead weekly horticulture volunteers on grounds with effective guidance, communication, and record keeping
    • Assist Aviary staff in dealing with maintenance projects or occasional custodial tasks
    • Seasonal snow removal lead for grounds
    • Cultivate garden plans with changing needs of people, animals, and insects in mind
    • Occasionally assist in horticulture-related projects at the Jordan River Nature Center

    Please note this position does not involve any direct contact with animals.

    Studies have shown that women, non-binary folks, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are much less likely to apply for a position unless they feel they meet every qualification as described. We are committed to finding the best overall candidate and welcome candidates who may come from less traditional backgrounds. Please consider the breadth of your life experience when interpreting our listed duties and qualifications.

    Qualifications

    • College degree in a related field is preferred 
    • Experience managing volunteers in a nonprofit setting
    • Experience in horticulture or related field
    • Earnest, inviting, lifelong learner’s attitude is essential
    • Demonstrated interest for a career in the field of horticulture
    • Effective in collaborative work and managing time efficiently
    • Motivated and innovative, well organized, eager to take on new tasks and meet commitments
    • Comfortable speaking in front of and organizing varied groups of people
    • Ability to work full-time, Sunday through Thursday, year round
    • Proficiency or capability to be proficient in Google Workspace 
    • Commitment to justice, equity, accessibility, and inclusion in the community and workplace

    Special Requirements

    • Ability to remain active, lift more than 25 lbs, and move around our 8-acre campus for several hours at a time in all types of weather conditions.

    About Tracy Aviary

    Tracy Aviary is committed to inspiring curiosity and caring for birds and nature through education and conservation. As the largest and oldest of only two free-standing aviaries in the nation and accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Tracy Aviary has grown and evolved over our more than 80-year history to become a cultural landmark, public garden, and leader in environmental education and conservation.

    How to Apply

    Applications are being accepted immediately. Positions are open until filled. No telephone calls please. Send a resume, contact information for three references, and a cover letter which connects your life experience, your interest, and your qualifications for this job to Bobbi Minard (she/ her), Horticulture Manager, at bobbim@tracyaviary.org. Visit www.tracyaviary.org for more information about Tracy Aviary.

  • Maintenance Technician

    Join Tracy Aviary in our mission to inspire curiosity and caring for birds and nature through conservation and education by becoming a steward of our buildings and grounds.

    Maintenance Technicians are specialists who work to prevent and repair damage to our buildings and grounds, and improve our facility. They work with bird care staff, conservationists, horticulturalists, and other staff to create solutions for the unique needs of a zoo environment, under the guidance of the Facilities Manager. They effectively work independently and as part of a team, have good communication and organizational skills, and excellent problem solving skills. Technicians work indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions. This position works at both the Tracy Aviary in Liberty Park and at the Jordan River Nature Center.

    Position Details

    Status: Full-time, benefited, non-exempt

    Schedule: 40 hr /wk 7:30am – 4:00pm, Sunday – Thursday or Tuesday – Saturday

    Compensation: $15.50 – $16.50/ hr depending on experience

    Primary Responsibilities

    • Using hand and power tools to perform repairs
    • Completing daily and quarterly preventive maintenance work, such as changing air filters and greasing gates
    • Writing work requests, performing work requests submitted by staff
    • Troubleshooting malfunctioning HVAC, plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems, and relaying that information to the Facilities Manager and outside contractors
    • Maintaining the appearance of grounds by sweeping, hosing, raking, and removing snow when necessary
    • Communicating with the Facilities Manager and operations team by text, email, and radio
    • Other tasks related to Tracy Aviary’s Operations department

    Qualifications

    Studies have shown that women, non-binary people, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are much less likely to apply for a position unless they feel they meet every qualification as described. We are committed to finding the best overall candidate and welcome candidates who may come from less traditional backgrounds. Please think about the breadth of your life experience when considering the below list of qualifications.

    • High school graduate or equivalent, or trade school preferred. 
    • 1 – 2 years of experience in professional maintenance is preferred. 
    • Experience in one or more of carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, irrigation, small appliance repair, welding, and/ or electrical preferred
    • Able to follow written and verbal directions
    • Able to respond quickly and appropriately to urgent and emergency situations
    • Able to work independently and as part of a team
    • Good decision making and problem solving skills
    • Basic computer and math skills
    • Able to lift up to 50 lbs, and work in all weather conditions
    • A valid US driver’s license is preferred

    To Apply: This position is open until filled. Email a resume and cover letter to Shawn (he/him) at FacilitiesManager@tracyaviary.org. Visit our website at tracyaviary.org for more information about Tracy Aviary.

    Please note that this position does not involve any direct contact with animals.

  • Custodial and Event Setup Assistant

    This position plays a critical role in meeting Tracy Aviary’s mission to inspire curiosity and caring for birds and nature through education and conservation. The Custodial Assistant is responsible for detail oriented work to maintain the cleanliness of facilities and grounds at Tracy Aviary, and at Tracy Aviary’s Jordan River Nature Center campus.The Custodial Assistant also assures that the Chase Mill and other event spaces at Tracy Aviary are clean and set up for events. Responsibilities include deep cleaning and waste removal in restrooms, education spaces, offices, and our grounds, and following instructions to set up tables, chairs, and other event equipment. Candidates must possess problem solving, communication, and organizational skills. They will stay up-to-date on assigned schedules and identify areas for improvement with minimal intervention from supervisors.

    Responsibilities Include:

    • Cleaning; rental spaces, offices, public facilities, and restrooms. 
    • Set up for events; moving and setting up chairs, tables, and other rental equipment.
    • Maintenance of public and staff walkways through hosing, blowing, or shoveling to provide a clean and tidy appearance.
    • Monitor garbage and recycling bins daily, prep for curbside pick-up.
    • Communicate with and take direction from the Facilities Manager.
    • Assist with maintenance projects.
    • Assist Aviary staff in dealing with facilities problems or emergencies. 

    Job Qualifications: 

    • Manage multiple projects at once.
    • Possess effective problem solving skills and attention to detail.
    • Good decision making skills, and be willing to learn and make decisions based on our best practices.
    • Professionalism in quickly responding to emergent or sensitive situations.
    • General computer experience including Microsoft Office, and Google Workspace are preferred.
    • This position involves lifting up to 60lbs, moving tables and chairs, and working in all weather conditions.
    • Utah drivers license preferred.
    • Must be able to pass a background check.
    • Must be vaccinated against COVID-19 or show proof of weekly negative test results.

    Comments: 

    • Custodial Assistant shifts are from 6:30 am – 3:00 pm, 2-3 weekdays and one weekend day per week.
    • The position is approximately 20-30 hrs a week.
    • Flexible schedules and full-time positions are available for the right person.
    • Pay is $13.50-$14.50/hr.

    Applications are being accepted until the position is filled. To apply email a resume, cover letter and three references to Rhea Wilson, Facilities Manager at rheaw@tracyaviary.org

    For further information about this position call 801-596-8500 ext. 115

  • Nature Center Host and Community Liaison

    Are you interested in becoming part of a community based nature center team?

    Overview:

    Tracy Aviary’s Jordan River Nature Center is located on the border of South Salt Lake and West Valley Cities. The JRNC is undergoing an expansion with the end result being a 12-acre community based nature space highlighting the beauty of Pia Okwai (the Jordan River). As we grow, we want to make sure we meet the needs of our neighbors, west side communities, and populations who have been historically excluded from conservation organizations. We seek adaptable team members that are passionate about nature, education, and who thoughtfully work to support meaningful community spaces within JRNC programming.

     

    Time Commitment:

    We have a range of positions including part time, full time, seasonal, and ongoing with needs for some evenings and most weekends. 

    Schedule: Determined upon hire and availability

    Compensation: $15.00/hr 

    Studies have shown that women, non-binary folks, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are much less likely to apply for a position unless they feel they meet every qualification as described. We are committed to finding the best overall candidate for this position. Please think about the breadth of your life experience when considering the following list of qualifications:

    Qualifications:

    • Background or demonstrated interest in story-telling and community education
    • Passion for engagement with members of a diverse public
    • Knowledge of and commitment to justice, equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion in the community and workplace
    • Willingness to learn a variety of skills relevant to the nature center’s needs
    • Bilingual candidates are preferred (particularly Spanish speakers)

     

    Primary Duties:

    • Assist with programming such as various gatherings, family nature programs, private group rentals, tours and walks focused on nature and wildlife, and more 
    • Provide assistance to guests of the Nature Center, including communicating the mission and vision of the Nature Center
    • Provide site interpretation, which includes communicating with guests about local ecology, natural wonders, and animal behavior (especially birds) 
    • Organize or assist in organizing opportunities for community engagement
    • Assist with site operations, such as opening and closing the Nature Center
    • Administer surveys to improve program quality and effectiveness

     

    Emphasis

    While the duties and qualifications mentioned here comprise a base for the position(s) we are looking for, we are also interested in particular areas of emphasis with either prior experience and knowledge or willingness to learn based on personal community connections to some or all of the following: Indigenous ecological knowledge, social justice and environmental issues, non-western plant and species names and stories, culture and conservation, social science and humanities research.

     

    Perks of Being a Team Member:

    • Tracy Aviary Membership (allows access to Tracy Aviary, discounts on events and products, discounts to other AZA zoo facilities, etc.)
    • Professional development opportunities in ecological justice, community programming, place-based learning, and public engagement
    • Become a member of a cool community whose goals include becoming leaders in eco justice practices, research and approaches that are local and global.

     

    To apply for this position, please email your resume to marissab@tracyaviary.org

  • Aviculturist (Full Time, Benefitted Position)

    Tracy Aviary is seeking an individual dedicated to avian husbandry, conservation, and education to fill the full-time position of Aviculturist.

    Salary: Starting wage for this position is $15-17/hour depending on experience. Raises are merit-based.

    Job Summary:  This position is an animal care position working directly with a collection of over 300 birds, and a few tortoises. Duties involve physical work outdoors throughout the year in conditions common for Utah. The department has a strong focus on avian sustainability, with many breeding recommendations and goals within the collection. Recent hatching highlights include Black-naped Fruit Dove, Black-Necked Stilt, Cape Thick-Knee, Red-Capped Cardinal, Troupial, and Scaly-Sided Merganser. The department runs an intern program focused on mentoring people interested in getting a job in the zoo field, and all aviculture staff members support the program through leadership and on-the-job training, preparing interns for future job opportunities in zoology and animal care. Physical work requirements include lifting up to 50lbs, bending, cleaning, use of non-motorized and motorized tools, pulling of carts, carrying large items, climbing ladders, and driving vehicles. Animals need care 365 days a year, aviculture staff work all holidays and weekends, luckily they have some great feathered colleagues to spend their days with, and supportive team members if they need flexibility with those days!

    Day in the life of an Aviculturist:

    • Provides animal care essentials through cleaning (hosing, fecal removal, raking, shoveling), diet preparation (including preparing items ranging from fruits and grains, to insects, rodents, and other meats), health and patient care (including providing vaccinations, triage care, and treatments for patients), safety (including exhibit repair, animal capture and restraint), provision of enrichment, husbandry training.
    • Learns about the cultural and natural history of the animals in the collection.
    • Works with the horticulture team on exhibit needs and plant care.
    • Observes and records the health and behavior of the birds, recording  daily details through the online database.
    • Performs some computer related tasks (updating protocols, responding to email).
    • Working with people is just as important as working with animals, duties include training and supervising interns and volunteers while communicating effectively with team members.

    Qualifications:

    Studies have shown that women, non-binary folks, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are much less likely to apply for a position unless they feel they meet every qualification as described. We are committed to finding the best overall candidate for this position. Please think about the breadth of your life experience when considering the following list of qualifications:

    Must Haves for Applicants:  

    • Passionate about birds and committed to inspiring curiosity and caring for birds and nature.
    • Ability to work independently.
    • Ability to follow direction from supervisors and colleagues.
    • Experience working in a team environment.
    • Experience providing and receiving constructive feedback.
    • Ability to work outside in all weather conditions with bending, lifting, and navigating uneven terrain daily, with reasonable accommodation.

    Additional Skills and Experience Welcomed:

    • Fluent in speaking and writing Spanish, to support engagement with guests through keeper talks, sign development, and social media support. Native speakers are preferred, but not required. Fluency in other languages is also welcome.
    • Experience mentoring teens and young adults through youth development programs.

    Being on the Tracy Aviary Team:

    Tracy Aviary provides health, dental, and vision, paid family support leave, paid time off and nine observed holidays, paid sick leave, and committed to Justice, Equity, Diversity, Accessibility, and Inclusion.

    Tracy Aviary values growth of its team members, providing opportunities for employees to expand their skills. Staff led Committees support multi-department camaraderie with the support to make a difference within the organization, committees focus on staff support and acknowledgement, safety, volunteer programs, green practices, diversity and inclusion, and many other ways to bring new ideas to support the Aviary’s mission and values.

     If you would like to learn more about what Tracy Aviary can offer you, or have more questions, feel free to reach out to Kate Lyngle-Cowand at katel@tracyaviary.org.

    How To Apply:

    Applications are being accepted immediately. Position is open until filled. Send 1) a cover letter which describes your life experience, interest, and qualifications for this job and 2) resume, to Kate Lyngle-Cowand (she/her), Curator of Exhibits, at katel@tracyaviary.org.

    If you would like to know more about this position or have questions about working at Tracy Aviary, please contact Kate for a more comprehensive list of benefits, duties, and responsibilities.

  • Rental and Event Support Staff

    Rental and Event Support Staff is responsible for assisting with private events, birthday parties, and other aviary functions as needed. They will have a deep understanding of appropriate communication and organization techniques, the ability to efficiently follow directions and protocols, as well as work both independently and as part of a team. Qualified candidates will also have reliable transportation and exhibit consistent punctuality and professionalism.

    Responsibilities include:

    • Act as reception for check-in at events.
    • Provide crowd control during events.
    • Assist Rental Coordinator with admin and clerical tasks.
    • Assist Rental Coordinator and other departments to provide specialty services, cleaning, set up and breakdown for Chase Mill and aviary events.
    • Assist Rental Coordinator and other departments to provide specialty services, cleaning, set up and breakdown for Jordan River Nature Center Events.
    • Assists with birthdays, weddings, and other private events.
    • Work occasional after-hours events.
    • Some night and weekend work will be required.
    • Moving of furniture and equipment in excess of 40 lbs. may be required.
    • Other duties as assigned.

    Job Qualifications: 

    Requires someone that is personable and has excellent communication skills. 1-2 years of customer service or related experience is preferred. Familiarity with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and When to Work is a plus. Ability to plan long term and think strategically. Ability to work both collaboratively and independently. Being multilingual is a plus. Event setup and breakdown experience is also a plus. This person should have the ability to respond quickly and appropriately to emergency or sensitive situations along with the ability to carry out work according to policy and procedures. Must have at least 3 days of availability including one evening or weekend. Sunday through Thursday availability preferred. Tracy Aviary staff are required to be covid-19 vaccinated or show proof of weekly negative test results as a qualification for employment.

    Pay Rate: $13.50 / hr

    Comments: 

    This position consists of office-related work, outside on-grounds work, and physical labor setting up events, which includes lifting of approximately 40 lbs. Evenings (often until midnight), weekday, and weekend work is required. This is a part time position. Hours per week will vary based on event and rentals schedules.

    Applications are being accepted until the position is filled. To apply email resume, cover letter, and phone numbers for three references to Leah Medley, Rentals Coordinator, at rentals@tracyaviary.org. Phone 801-596-8500 ext. 111.

  • Guest Experience Associate

    Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens is looking for a Seasonal Guest Experience Associate to help our guests connect to nature during the summer season. This position will start in late April or early May and end on an agreed-upon date in September. The position will not exceed six months in duration.

    Job Family: Guest Experience (GE)

    Job Title: Guest Experience Associate

    Job Status: Seasonal, Part-time, non-exempt

    Reporting Relationships: Reports to Guest Experience Manager and/or Assistant Manager and/or Shift Lead

    Job Summary: This position includes, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:

    • Greet visitors with a cheerful and courteous attitude. Maintain an accurate count of visitors
    • Cashiering at the admissions gates or Nature Store in an accurate manner
    • Money handling and reconciliation, proper completion of daily admissions report and deposit detail
    • Answering telephone calls/questions or forwarding calls to the appropriate contact
    • Monitoring items brought into the Aviary by visitors (do not allow dogs, pets, large balls, bikes, etc.)
    • The organization, cleaning and facing products in the Nature Store as well as the other GE areas
    • Conducting inventory and stocking supplies
    • Providing excellent customer service and handling customer complaints professionally
    • Ushering at Bird Programs
    • Conduct and supervise guests during bird feedings
    • Selling memberships
    • Assisting with special events

    Job Qualifications: 

    • Basic math and computer skills
    • Familiarity with Point-of-Sale systems is a plus.

    Comments: This position involves lifting heavy supplies, bending, cleaning, and occasional carrying of items. Must be able to work flexible hours, holidays, early and late hours, promotional events, and other necessary times as needed according to visitor services schedule. Candidates must also be willing to follow any health guidelines that are in effect.

    Disclaimer: This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of an employee assigned to this job.

    Tracy Aviary Justice, Equity, Diversity, Accessibility, and Inclusion Statement: 

    At Tracy Aviary, we value the beauty and diversity of birds and nature. In the same spirit, we are committed to providing a safe haven for people in all their diversity to engage, learn, and connect with nature at our facilities and through our programs. We strive to be increasingly respectful and responsive to this broad diversity of people and partner with the community to co-create opportunities to connect with nature and each other. We see diversity, equity, accessibility, inclusion, and justice as requisites for institutional excellence. We aim to create an environment in which staff can bring their whole selves and are supported through mentoring, growth opportunities, and recognition of their value as part of our organization. It is our aspiration that our staff, partners, and volunteers embrace our core values and that we extend these values to our guests and community.

    *By diversity we mean the quality of being different or unique at the individual or group level. This definition encompasses all people including but not limited to people of different ages, languages, ethnicities, gender identities, nationalities, immigration statuses, parental statuses, abilities, learning styles, races, religions, sexual orientations, socio-economic statuses, education levels, and more.

    Job Type: Part-time

    Pay: $12.00 per hour

    To Apply: Email resume and cover letter to Director of Guest Experience, Jeff Jones

  • Bird Feeder Café Attendant

    Job Summary:

    This position includes, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:

    • Greet guests in a friendly manner.
    • Take orders accurately.
    • Preparation and execution of menu items according to recipes and procedures.
    • Money handling and reconciliation, proper completion of daily admissions report and deposit detail
    • Cleaning, washing, and organization of the Bird Feeder in accordance with the Health Code.
    • Monitoring items brought into Aviary by visitors (do not allow dogs or other pets, large balls, etc.)
    • Conducting inventory and stocking supplies
    • Providing excellent customer service and handling customer complaints professionally
    • Assisting with special events

    Job Type: Part-time, non-exempt

    Job Qualifications:

    • Must have a Food Handler’s Permit or get one within 30 days of hiring.
    • Coffee knowledge a plus
    • Basic math and computer skills; familiarity with Point-of-Sale systems a plus
    • Excellent communication and customer service skills
    • Bilingual English/Spanish a plus

    Comments:

    This position involves food handling, lifting heavy supplies, bending, cleaning and occasional carrying of items. Must be able to work flexible hours, holidays, early and late hours, promotional events and other necessary times as needed according to schedule.

    Disclaimer:

    This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of an employee assigned to this job.

    Tracy Aviary Justice, Equity, Diversity, Accessibility, and Inclusion Statement:

    At Tracy Aviary, we value the beauty and diversity of birds and nature. In the same spirit, we are committed to providing a safe haven for people in all their diversity to engage, learn, and connect with nature at our facilities and through our programs. We strive to be increasingly respectful and responsive to this broad diversity of people and partner with the community to co-create opportunities to connect with nature and each other. We see diversity, equity, accessibility, inclusion, and justice as requisites for institutional excellence. We aim to create an environment in which staff can bring their whole selves and are supported through mentoring, growth opportunities, and recognition of their value as part of our organization. It is our aspiration that our staff, partners, and volunteers embrace our core values and that we extend these values to our guests and community.

    *By diversity we mean the quality of being different or unique at the individual or group level. This definition encompasses all people including but not limited to people of different ages, languages, ethnicities, gender identities, nationalities, immigration statuses, parental statuses, abilities, learning styles, races, religions, sexual orientations, socio-economic statuses, education levels, and more.

    To Apply: Email resume and cover letter to Director of Guest Experience, Jeff Jones.

  • Motus Technician

    Job Summary: Tracy Aviary’s Conservation Science Program helps conserve birds and their  habitats through community science. Focusing on key local habitats and pressing regional  conservation issues, our goals are to gather novel information about local avian ecology, inform  habitat restoration and stewardship, and engage a diverse community in scientific data  collection. Tracy Aviary is offering a 2-month seasonal Motus Technician position which will  assist in Motus Station installations in the Salt Lake Valley and help teach Motus tagging to local  bird banders and students.  

    Tracy Aviary ( www.tracyaviary.org ) is an AZA-accredited institution located on eight acres in the  heart of Salt Lake City, UT. In early 2020, we opened Tracy Aviary’s second campus, the Jordan  River Nature Center ( https://www.jordanrivernaturecenter.org ), which furthers our mission to  inspire curiosity and caring for birds and nature through education and conservation.  

    Position Dates: Early to mid September-October 2023 (2-month position, exact start and end dates flexible). Approximately 40 hours per week.  

    Primary Duties:  

    • Assist with the logistical planning and implementation of Motus station across Salt Lake  Valley  
    • Assist with physical installation of Motus equipment multiple days a week 
    • Travel regionally across Salt Lake Valley as well as other sites in Utah 
    • Assist with teaching Motus tagging skills to bird banders and students
    • Assist with other duties related to Tracy Aviary’s Conservation Science Program as  needed.  

    Job Qualifications:  

    • Prior experience with or understanding of radio telemetry or the Motus Wildlife  Tracking Network a plus  
    • Experience and comfort using power and non-power tools, working at heights,  and operating heavy machinery  
    • Effective verbal and interpersonal communication skills  
    • Proficiency in use of Google Office Suite  
    • Frequently required to bend and walk, and to lift and/or push or pull in excess of 60  pounds  

     

    Stipend: $2,000/month, housing available in shared intern house 

    Disclaimer: This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of  work performed by an employee within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be  interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications  required of an employee assigned to this job.  

    To apply: Send a cover letter describing relevant experience and skills, a resume, and contact  information for three references to Tully Frain (tullyf@tracyaviary.org). Applications will be  reviewed as they are received.  

    At Tracy Aviary, we value the beauty and diversity of birds and nature. In the same spirit, we are  committed to providing a safe haven for people in all their diversity to engage, learn, and  connect with nature at our facilities and through our programs. We strive to be increasingly  respectful and responsive to this broad diversity of people and partner with the community to  co-create opportunities to connect with nature and each other. We see diversity, equity,  accessibility, inclusion, and justice as requisites for institutional excellence. We aim to create an  environment in which staff can bring their whole selves and are supported through mentoring,  growth opportunities, and recognition of their value as part of our organization. It is our  aspiration that our staff, partners, and volunteers embrace our core values and that we extend  these values to our guests and community.  

    By diversity we mean the quality of being different or unique at the individual or group level.  This definition encompasses all people including but not limited to people of different ages,  languages, ethnicities, gender identities, nationalities, immigration statuses, parental statuses,  abilities, learning styles, races, religions, sexual orientations, socio-economic statuses, education  levels, and more.

  • Conservation Science Intern

    Job Summary:

    Tracy Aviary’s Conservation Science Program helps conserve birds and their habitats through community science. Focusing on key local habitats and pressing regional conservation issues, our goals are to gather novel information about local avian ecology, inform habitat restoration and stewardship, and engage a diverse community in scientific data collection. Tracy Aviary is offering a 4-month fall internship that will provide on-the-ground experience in avian conservation science, with a focus on two of the Aviary’s research projects: 

    1) Year-round Bird Monitoring in the Salt Lake Valley: Tracy Aviary conducts year-round community science bird surveys at 12 study sites throughout the Salt Lake Valley.  These surveys help answer questions about the impact of restoration, management, and habitat alteration on bird communities, and provide a basis for recommendations on bird-friendly practices at these sites. The Conservation Science Intern will assist in data entry and analysis for all study sites, and will attend non-breeding season surveys at various sites around Salt Lake County.

    2) Salt Lake Avian Collision Survey (SLACS): Approximately two-thirds of all migratory bird species migrate at night, and many of these birds miss seasonal migratory cues, wander off course, and collide with windows as a result of light pollution. In order to document light pollution and its impacts on birds in Salt Lake City, Tracy Aviary has created the Salt Lake Avian Collision Survey (SLACS). For this project, staff and community scientists conduct early morning surveys in downtown Salt Lake City during peak migration to document the birds that have collided with buildings overnight. This information is used to inform Lights Out Salt Lake: a grassroots conservation initiative where private residents, buildings, and businesses elect to turn out their lights at night during peak bird migration. The Conservation Science Intern will coordinate volunteers for SLACS, conduct collision surveys during September and October, and assist with outreach for Lights Out Salt Lake.

     

    Position Dates:  ~mid-August to mid-December (4-month position, exact start and end dates flexible)

     

    Primary Duties: 

    • Enter and proof bird and habitat data for breeding season point count surveys and vegetation surveys conducted during 2023 season. Optional analysis project available depending on experience and interest.
    • Conduct morning bird-building collision surveys in downtown Salt Lake City during September and October.
    • Help coordinate and train volunteers for SLACS, and assist with outreach for Lights Out Salt Lake. 
    • Provide support for Tracy Aviary’s Birds of Utah class, including coordination and classroom set up. 
    • Assist in other duties related to Tracy Aviary’s Conservation Science Program as needed.

     

    Stipend:  $680/month, housing available in shared intern house

     

    Job Qualifications:  

    • Background and/or demonstrated experience in biology or ecology. 
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills
    • Experience working with volunteers/members of the public 
    • A good team player, but able to work independently
    • Proficient with Microsoft Office suite
    • Knowledge of bird identification and experience with bird/habitat survey methods preferred
    • Experience with data entry and analysis preferred (including ArcGIS, R, and/or other statistical software)

     

    To Apply: Send a cover letter describing relevant experience and skills, a resume, and contact information for three references to Cooper Farr (cooperf@tracyaviary.org) by August 11, 2023. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

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