Big Cat Sanctuary Internship

Safe Haven Wildlife Sanctuary is currently interviewing for a six-month animal keeper internship position. Safe Haven provides lifelong care to surrendered and confiscated exotics including tigers, African lions, bears, mountain lions, and small wild felids including bobcats, caracals, African servals and native Nevada wildlife.  Most recently, Safe Haven has been working with the Cheetah Foundation, providing homes for those “retired” from the Species Survival

Plans.  Interns will gain extensive experience and skills necessary to pursue paid animal care positions. 

Safe Haven is accredited by GFAS, the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, meeting over 500 animal care recommendations.

Responsibilities:

• Provide daily animal husbandry, medications, species-specific diets, and supplements.
• Daily animal feedings.
• Habitat and den cleaning.
• Assists in safe capture procedures.
• Participates in emergency training and evacuation drills.
• Provide animal enrichment.
• Provide informal educational tours to the public.
• Assist with landscaping and habitat/platform maintenance (often with the use of power tools).
• Assists with seasonal projects including hanging shade cloth, cleaning pools, caulking dens, weeding, etc.

Requirements:

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Prefer students working toward a degree in animal science, zoology, biology, and environmental sciences.
• Self-motivated and hard-working.
• Professional attitude and ability to work with other interns and staff.
• Must be comfortable with interacting with the public.
• Able to lift 50 pounds and work in inclement weather.
• Must adhere to safety protocols and no-contact policy.
• Must have own vehicle and valid driver’s license.

Education and Pre-Requisites

• H.S. Diploma or GED equivalent.

Compensation and Benefits

• Interns are provided free onsite housing and a $1,500.00 per month stipend

Start dates:

• 1 position available to start early March 2026
• 1 position available to start April 8, 2026