WILDLIFE REHABILITATOR

Position Overview:

The Wildlife Rehabilitator is an integral part of wildlife conservation efforts, focusing on the care, rehabilitation, and eventual release of injured, sick, or orphaned wildlife. This role includes a wide array of responsibilities, from direct animal care and medical assistance to public education and volunteer training. The ideal candidate is compassionate, detail-oriented, and capable of thriving in a fast-paced, demanding environment where the goal is to ensure the well-being and survival of wildlife species.

Reports to Wildlife Rehabilitator Manager.

The Wildlife Rehabilitators are employees of PRWC, Inc. His/her duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Responsibilities

Animal Care and Rehabilitation

• Provide comprehensive daily care for wildlife patients, including feeding, cleaning, enrichment, and monitoring.
• Observe and record patient behavior, progress, and overall health.
• Administer medications and perform basic treatments (e.g., fluid therapy, wound care, tube feeding) under veterinary supervision.
• Ensure appropriate housing, diets, and enrichment tailored to the needs of various species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
• Assist in the preparation and implementation of species-specific rehabilitation protocols.
• Conduct regular checks to identify behavioral changes or health concerns and adjust care plans accordingly.

Medical Assistance

• Support veterinarians in performing diagnostic and treatment procedures, including x-rays, administering anesthesia, and minor surgeries.
• Safely capture, handle, and restrain wildlife for medical treatments and examinations.
• Perform humane euthanasia in compliance with ethical and regulatory standards, when necessary.

Facility and Equipment Maintenance

• Maintain enclosures, cages, tanks, and pools to ensure optimal hygiene and safety for all animals.
• Oversee the functionality of equipment such as incubators, feeding tools, and monitoring devices.
• Conduct regular inspections of facilities to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Assist in planning and executing maintenance projects, including habitat upgrades and storm preparations.

Education, Outreach, and Training

• Train and supervise interns, volunteers, and apprentices in animal care and rehabilitation techniques.
• Assist the Director of Development and Communications in the development of educational materials, newsletters, and social media content for promotional and outreach purposes.
• Provide consultations to the public regarding wildlife conflicts and best practices for coexisting with local species.

Emergency Response

• Respond to wildlife emergencies, including rescues, transportation, and patient intakes.
• Work with local and regional wildlife networks to facilitate patient transfers and releases.

Record Keeping and Compliance

• Maintain detailed and accurate records for all patients, including medical histories, treatment plans, and release outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal wildlife permits and regulations.
• Participate in ongoing protocol development to align practices with current best standards in wildlife rehabilitation.

Collaboration and Professional Development

• Collaborate with veterinary staff, educators, and administrative teams to achieve organizational goals.
• Participate in staff meetings, workshops, and training sessions to stay updated on rehabilitation methods.
• Represent the organization at professional conferences and community events.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, animal sciences, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in wildlife rehabilitation or a related animal care field.
• Certification as a Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR) or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with natural history and ecological needs of native wildlife species is an asset.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, rehabilitation techniques, and species-specific care.
• Ability to safely handle and restrain wildlife, including potentially dangerous or stressed animals.
• Exceptional communication skills for interacting with the public, team members, and regulatory agencies.
• Proficiency with computer software, including Microsoft Office and wildlife databases such as WRMD.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Comfort working outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat or cold.
• Stamina to stand, walk, kneel, or crouch for extended periods.
• Capacity to handle stressful or emotionally challenging situations with professionalism and resilience.

Work Conditions

• Full-time position with variable hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Exposure to zoonotic diseases, hazardous chemicals, and potentially dangerous wildlife.
• Frequent travel for wildlife rescues, releases, or professional development events.