Job Title:    2022 Season Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship (voluntary positions)

 

Start Date:   Flexible

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 internship Duration:  minimum of 2 months, maximum of 6 months  

 

Internship Description: 

Volunteer wildlife rehabilitation interns play an integral role in providing quality care in all components of the rehabilitation process.  This includes admitting and examining new patients, feeding animals from infant to adult, maintaining detailed animal records, preparing a wide variety of species specific diets, daily cleaning and maintaining of animal habitats and participating in rescues and releases.  Interns also assist in administering fluids, wound care, medication and specialized feeding techniques.  General cleaning is critical which includes sweeping/moping floors, washing dishes, disinfecting surface areas and general cleaning of work areas.  Interns also assist in the mentoring of new volunteers, and have regular interactions with members of the public.  

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Interns work 5-day weeks between 40-50 hours per week.  Shifts consist of morning, evening and split shifts, including weekdays, weekends and holidays.  Hours worked must be flexible to fit the needs of our wildlife patients.

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Accommodations:

A limited number of free on-site accommodations are available, including private cabin style sleeping quarters.  There is a shared kitchen which includes a stove, oven, microwave and fridge.  Food is not provided.  

 

Requirements/Qualifications:

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• MUST be committed to the entire length of the internship

• Dedication, reliability and ability to work in a team environment, yet not requiring constant supervision is imperative

• Must be flexible in hours and duties required to fit the needs of our wildlife patients

• Ability to stay motivated and calm in an often highly demanding environment

• Willing to learn and adhere to all policies, procedures and protocols

• Be able to perform physically demanding and often repetitive tasks in all kinds of weather

• Must be at least 18 years of age

• Previous wildlife rehabilitation experience is an asset but not required

• Proof of vaccination for tetanus is mandatory

• Proof of vaccination for rabies is required to work with rabies vector species. Assistance in covering up to 50% of the rabies vaccination costs ( approx. $600 total cost) is an option for internship terms of 10 weeks or longer. 

• Access to personal transportation is an asset​

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Benefits:

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Wildlife internships provide a rewarding experience, as most of an intern's focus is spent directly on animal care.  Interns gain valuable practical experience in animal handling, care and husbandry techniques and enrichment.  Interns learn a wide variety of aspects of wildlife rehabilitation such as species identification, natural history and behavior, animal health and nutrition, diagnostic procedures, fluid therapy, hygiene practices, release criteria and human/wildlife conflict resolution. 

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Interns also develop strong mentorships/friendships with like-minded people and gain valuable work skills while learning to perform efficiently in a demanding, fast paced, team-oriented environment. 

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How to Apply:

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Please e-mail a resume to turtlepondwc@gmail.com.  Provide a covering letter detailing your availability and COVID-19 vaccination status.  Also, please include a brief summary of what you hope to gain from an internship and how you will contribute to our team.  Also indicate whether you would like to be considered for accommodations and include the start and end date that you are available (minimum 2 months).

 

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 Positions are filled on an ongoing basis as qualified candidates are found.