Keeper Lead

About Audubon Nature Institute

Audubon Nature Institute is more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers; it is a dedicated team united by a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by a unique culture code that drives every initiative:

• Activating Impact: We integrate tangible, real-world outcomes into all our efforts to foster a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact.
• Empowering Optimism: We use positivity to inspire others to act and believe in their capacity to create meaningful change.
• Create Connection: We engage with people from all walks of life, recognizing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world.
• Le Bon Temps: We embody the spirit of Louisiana, infusing joy and vibrant culture into our everyday work while celebrating our unique heritage.
• Leaders of the Pack: We constantly seek smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.

Our facilities include Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, the Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, the Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park.

About the Role

As a Keeper Lead in the Husbandry/Entomology department, you will serve as a vital link between our living collection and the public. Based at the Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium, this role is designed for a passionate leader who thrives in a collaborative environment and is eager to champion the care of invertebrates.

You will provide proactive leadership to the team, overseeing daily operations within the Insectarium or Insect Rearing Facility. Your day-to-day involves supervising animal care and exhibit maintenance, ensuring the highest standards of welfare while managing facility upkeep. Beyond the scenes, you will act as a spokesperson for Audubon, delivering live animal presentations to educate visitors about conservation, the interconnectedness of nature, and the critical roles arthropods play in our ecosystems. Whether conducting behind-the-scenes tours for VIPs and donors or representing the institute on media outlets, you will embody our mission to connect people with nature.

This position requires a balance of technical expertise and people management. You will mentor staff, facilitate training, and ensure compliance with AZA and USDA standards. As a liaison between the Entomology team and other departments, you will collaborate on collection plans, decision-making, and the acquisition or disposition of animals. You will also participate in professional development and conservation initiatives, ensuring that Audubon remains at the forefront of animal care excellence.

Hiring Process

Candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring team. The process typically involves a review of qualifications followed by interviews with the Assistant Curator/Curator of Entomology and relevant department leadership. We look for individuals who not only possess the required technical skills but also resonate with our culture code and mission.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Audubon Nature Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.