Lead the Flock at Billabong Sanctuary as our Head of Bird Department

Do you have a passion for avian husbandry, conservation and wildlife leadership? Join the CaPTA Group's Billabong Sanctuary, an award-winning, ZAA-accredited wildlife park and Ecotourism Hall of Fame inductee team as our Head of Bird Department, where you will lead the care and management of some of Australia's most iconic bird species while inspiring guests and supporting conservation outcomes.

About the Role:

As our Head of Bird Department, you will be responsible for the daily leadership, operation and management of the Bird Department at Billabong Sanctuary. This hands-on role combines avian husbandry, team leadership, conservation activities, guest presentations and operational coordination, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, visitor experiences and departmental performance.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and support the daily operation of the Bird Department, ensuring high standards of animal welfare, husbandry and presentation.

- Oversee the care, behavioural observation and enrichment of assigned bird species.

- Monitor animal health and welfare, responding appropriately to concerns and liaising with veterinary support where required.

- Coordinate department priorities, work schedules and daily operational activities.

- Maintain accurate animal records, including husbandry, health, enrichment and animal movement information.

- Deliver engaging bird presentations, educational talks and guest interactions that promote wildlife conservation.

- Coordinate breeding programs, including nesting, incubation, chick rearing and associated record keeping

- Support conservation, environmental sustainability and species management initiatives.

- Mentor, train and develop team members to achieve high standards of performance and animal care.





- Ensure compliance with workplace health and safety, biosecurity, animal welfare and operational procedures.

- Work collaboratively with other departments to support smooth park operations and exceptional guest experiences.

About You

You’ll bring;

- A passion for birds, wildlife and conservation.

- Experience in managing staff, volunteers and trainees.

- A positive, supportive and professional leadership style.

- Exceptional attention to detail and high standards of animal care.

- Confidence making decisions and managing competing priorities.

- Strong communication and presentation skills.

- A proactive attitude and solutions-focused mindset.

- A genuine commitment to creating outstanding experiences for both animals and guests.

Desirable

- Certificate III or IV in Captive Animals or equivalent qualification.

- Experience using Species360 (ZIMS).

- Experience conducting wildlife presentations and educational programs.

- Knowledge of WHS legislation, biosecurity requirements and zoo accreditation standards.

- Experience coordinating breeding programs.

- Dangerous animal handling and secure management experience (including cassowaries and emus) will be highly regarded.

Why Join Us?

- Be part of a passionate and supportive team

- Work in a unique environment dedicated to conservation and education

- Ongoing training and career development opportunities

- Industry famil trips and exclusive company events

- Discounts across all CaPTA Group attractions

- Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

- Play a key role in Billabong Sanctuary's exciting next chapter with the CaPTA Group.

How to Apply

If you're ready to make a lasting impact and thrive in a one-of-a-kind setting, we’d love to hear from you! Submit your resume and a tailored cover letter to ••••@capta.com.au.

Apply today and help us maintain the WOW factor that makes Billabong Sanctuary world-famous!

📌 Head of Birds (Townsville)
🏢 Capta Group of Companies
📍 Townsville