INTERNSHIPS
AN UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK WITH WILDLIFE
Animal Care Internship
SWCC Animal Care interns will be provided the opportunity to work with a variety of mammal species, including Mexican gray wolves, black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, raccoons, skunks, coatimundi and javelina. Interns will have responsibilities in all aspects of daily care for permanent sanctuary animals, as well as releasable animals during the rehabilitation process. Interns will gain knowledge on species-specific behavior, natural history, diet protocols and capture techniques. Animal care interns will assist staff with daily care and husbandry including diet preparation and distribution, medication preparation, enclosure cleaning and maintenance, physical and behavior observations, and environmental enrichment. In addition, interns may have the opportunity to observe medical procedures and assist in the care and feeding of neonatal orphaned wildlife. This is an unpaid internship opportunity.
Term of Appointment:
Internships are offered for spring, summer and fall sessions. Interns should be able to devote approximately 28 hours per week during the session. Each session lasts approximately 3 ½ months. Exact dates and days of the week are flexible and will be negotiated upon acceptance.
Spring session is January – April. Applications accepted through 31 October.
Summer session is May – August. Applications accepted through 28 February.
Fall session is September – December. Applications accepted through the end of August.
Qualifications:
Must be at least a sophomore in college.
Enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions.
Must be in good physical condition and able to stand for long periods, stoop, climb, and lift 50 pounds.
Preference given to undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a career in a related field.
Current tetanus and rabies vaccinations required. Rabies vaccine can be expensive, and need not be scheduled until selected as the successful applicant.
If accepted, a $50 fee is required to cover administration costs such as the background check.
Stipend:
This is an unpaid internship. College credit is offered if desired; interns are responsible for obtaining necessary approval from their university.
Interns are responsible for their own transportation, housing and personal health insurance.
To Apply:
The following documents are required:
- Resume that includes your current academic status and any degrees currently held or expected.
- A one-page statement of interest in the internship. Include relevant experience, career goals, and what you hope to gain from the position. Include also which internship time period you are applying for as well. Your statement is important for the evaluation process.
- Two letters of reference.
Use the form below to submit your information and requested application documents. A staff member will reach out regarding your application to continue the process!
