Aviculture Apprenticeship

ICF is a leader in the conservation of the world's 15 crane species and is dedicated to providing experience, knowledge, and inspiration to involve people in resolving threats to cranes and the ecosystems vital to their long-term survival.  ICF's world headquarters is located just outside Baraboo, WI (one hour north of Madison, WI).  ICF is open to the public every day from May 1st to October 31st each year.  ICF exhibits the only collection in the world of all 15 species of crane.  The Crane Conservation Department (CCD) is responsible for the care and management of approximately 120 cranes year-round.  For more information about our conservation programs, please visit our website at www.savingcranes.org.  Be sure to view the Internship Programs video!

Duration and Salary:  This position has a set 6-month duration starting March/April 2024.  The compensation for this position is $1,500/month plus housing at our International Guest House located on site in Baraboo, Wisconsin.

 Learning Goals: Aviculture Apprentices will receive training and assist in the care, management, and breeding of the captive crane flock through hands-on experience working with the ICF Crane Conservation Department and will:

·       Learn husbandry skills related to the health, daily feeding and cleaning of the flock

·       Learn by participating in the management of birds in captivity specifically for zoological institutions or reintroduction programs

·       Acquire an understanding of captive propagation including participation in artificial insemination, egg incubation, and chick rearing

·       Assist with a variety of crane facility maintenance activities and plant invasive species management

·       Learn and practice safe crane defense techniques used during egg collections.  May learn and practice crane handling and restraint techniques.

·       Learn how to conduct behavioral observations associated with breeding, chick-rearing, or animal welfare assessments

·       Learn by participating in planning, designing, implementing, and evaluating a behavioral modification program (enrichment or training based).

·       Learn about interpretation by participating in on-site visitor outreach through scheduled keeper chats or tours in conjunction with the Conservation Education Department.

·       One of our goals is for apprentices to participate in projects related to the goals, work plan, and objectives of the ICF Crane Conservation Department.  These projects are shared through a formal presentation and paper.   

Additional opportunities may include:

·       Learn veterinary medicine for crane species by observing medical procedures and treatments.

·       Participate in conservation field-related experiences such as radio-telemetry tracking of cranes, Whooping crane chick releases, and prescribed burns.

·       Learn about ICF project initiatives related to crane ecology, behavior and husbandry, field conservation and ecology; and ecosystem restoration techniques and processes by attending all staff meetings or volunteering with other departments.  

·       The opportunity to meet and work with a variety of professional staff at ICF.

A typical work week is 5 days (40-50 hours) with two consecutive weekdays off.   Apprentices are required to work weekends and holidays.  Some responsibilities require non-traditional work hours which may include early mornings, evenings, or night checks. 

Qualifications: 

·       Ability to work both independently and in a team environment with minimal supervision.

·       Well-developed communication skills including speaking to large visitor groups.

·       Reliability, sound judgement, and ability to master tasks and comprehend concepts quickly and correctly.  

·       Attention to detail as it relates to the health and behavior of animals as well as to the quality of one’s own work. 

·       Ability to work a varied schedule; 40-50 hours per week.

·       Two years of college or equivalent practical experience required.

·       Demonstrated animal care experience with a focus in avian biology or zoo-keeping preferred.

·       Must be able to commit to the 6-month duration; preference given to individuals who can start in April.

·       Must have a valid driver’s license (USA or International); an acceptable driving record is required. 

·       All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the time they apply. 

Physical Abilities:

·       Ability to work outdoors in difficult conditions for long periods of time. 

·       Ability to work outdoors every day in all weather conditions found in Wisconsin, but also indoors in an office environment. 

·       This position is physically demanding.  Applicants must be able to carry 50 pounds unaided and be able to lift, bend, or stoop for extended lengths of time.  Applicants must be able to stand and walk over uneven ground for long distances, extended lengths of time while carrying supplies.

·       Applicants must be able to work in physically & visually limiting capacities in a costume for long hours outdoors. 

 Application Procedure:  Application materials should include the following: 

·       A one-page personal statement that addresses why you are interested in being a part of the ICF flock, what you hope to gain from our aviculture apprenticeship, and what contribution you hope to make in this position

·       A resume (no longer than 2 pages); include start date availability

·       Contact information (email and phone number) for three references 

Send application materials to ICFinternships@savingcranes.org.  Please use the subject line “CCD Aviculture Apprenticeship.”  Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

“ICF is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion. We hire great people regardless of background. “ ICF is an equal opportunity employer