Opportunity: Wildlife Rescue & Frontline Intern

WILDNorth – Northern Alberta Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation

Position: Wildlife Rescue & Frontline Intern

Time Period: May 1 through August 31

Hours: 20 hrs per week (two 10hr shifts)

WILDNorth is seeking enthusiastic people who love wildlife, the outdoors, and have a strong desire to learn and work well in a team environment. WILDNorth is a non-partisan, charitable organization that provides compassionate care for injured and orphaned wildlife and educates the public on the importance of wildlife in our community. We provide a high standard of care to a wide variety of native and migratory species. Approximately 80% of our patients are wild birds (waterfowl, birds of prey, songbirds) and 20% small mammals (squirrels, porcupines, fox).

Duties:

Working under the supervision of the Helpline Manager and WILDRescue Manager, interns will assist with the following: 

• Field and log phone calls from, and provide solutions to the public about wildlife concerns 

• Formulate effective strategies for wildlife capture in the field 

• Utilize nets and other equipment to capture wildlife 

• Physically handle wildlife 

• Facilitate the intake of wildlife patients, create online patient files, and transition the patients to the animal care team 

• Greet individuals upon arrival, accept donations and process merchandise sales 

• Drive to and from Wildlife Hospital and rescue locations 

• Coordinate with WILDRescue Manager and Helpline callers 

• Work cooperatively with other wildlife rescuers 

• Liaise with public and represent WILDNorth in a positive manner 

• Interns are required to follow all WILDNorth policy, procedures and protocols. Interns will also interact and work with other facility volunteers, summer students and casual relief staff. 

Skills:

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Ability to be motivated, flexible, and patient in a highly demanding work environment
• Able to endure a physically challenging environment and lift/ carry 40 lbs.

Requirements:

• Experience or coursework in biological or environmental sciences, wildlife rehabilitation or management, veterinary medicine, animal welfare or husbandry is an asset 

• Must be 18 years of age or older 

• Must have a valid driver’s license and provide a driver’s license abstract 

• Must have current tetanus vaccination 

• Rabies vaccination is an asset 

• Must provide a Criminal Record Check 

Conditions: 

All positions are voluntary, NO salary is offered. Housing and transportation are not provided. 

Benefits & skill development for the Intern: 

• Species identification and wildlife capture/handling experience 

• Wildlife management and conflict resolution experience 

• Further your career or educational goals 

• Orientation and training provided 

• Learning job skills and teamwork 

• Mentorship and friendships with like-minded people 

• Certificate of completion of internship provided 

Though the majority of our summer internships run from May through August, there is the opportunity to start in April and/or end in September. Please indicate your availability on the form below.

Application Process:

1. Fill in an application form: Application Form Here

2. Attach your resume to your application.

3. Submit your application and resume.

WILDNorth’s staff thanks you for your interest in our volunteer internship program. All applicants will go through an application, screening, and interview process. Successful candidates will then attend an orientation and onsite training.

Note: Current or previous WILDNorth volunteers and interns are welcome to apply!

“As a Wildlife Rescue & Frontline Intern at WILDNorth, I worked with many different species of wildlife, from orphaned baby beavers (kits) to injured great white pelicans. My internship was an extremely rewarding experience that enhanced my love and understanding of Alberta wildlife. Interacting with the public was a real highlight of my internship. It was amazing to hear how much care and compassion northern Albertans have for wildlife. The staff at WILDNorth always took the time to guide in a supportive and knowledgeable manner. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to WILDNorth’s goals and recommend this internship to anyone passionate about wildlife conservation and rehabilitation.” – Rob, Wildlife Rescue & Frontline Intern 2024

 

 

 

 

PLEASE NOTE:

WILDNorth’s staff thanks you for your interest in our volunteer internship program. All successful applicants will go through an application, screening, and interview process followed by orientation, and onsite training.