Wildlife Care Intern

Orange Beach Wildlife Center Internship Opportunity

Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and eager to gain hands-on experience in animal rehabilitation? The Orange Beach Wildlife Center (OBWC) offers an exciting internship opportunity for individuals dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife. Our center is located in a unique coastal environment, providing interns with the chance to work with a diverse range of species, including birds, mammals (excluding rabies vector species, due to state regulations), reptiles, and migratory birds.

As a growing facility, OBWC offers interns the opportunity to engage in a variety of tasks across multiple aspects of wildlife care. Intern duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Triaging and assessing injured and sick animals
• Administering medications and treatments
• Changing bandages and providing wound care
• Raising orphaned young animals
• Preparing and providing animal diets
• Conducting animal feedings
• Responding to hotline calls
• Maintaining detailed records
• Performing fecal checks and assisting with bloodwork
• Participating in animal releases
• Daily cleaning and maintenance of enclosures and kennels
• Capturing and handling animals as needed

Interns will also assist in delivering educational programs, offering a unique opportunity to expand their knowledge and gain experience in public engagement within a high-volume tourist area.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is required.
• Previous experience in animal care (whether domestic or wildlife) is preferred but not mandatory.
• Strong work ethic, adaptability, and willingness to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively, demonstrate initiative, and possess effective communication and time management skills.
• A mature demeanor and ability to handle unexpected situations are essential.
• Preference will be given to candidates interested in pursuing a career in wildlife rehabilitation, education, or other related fields.

Internship Details:

• Full-time commitment: 40 hours per week (5 days) with additional on-call responsibilities.
• Interns must be willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Housing is provided in a co-ed, dormitory-style accommodation located on-site within the center.
• An $800/month stipend is provided.
• Interns will have the opportunity to live just three miles from the beautiful white-sand beaches of Orange Beach.
• This position requires a background check, including a drug test, and interns must sign a code of conduct agreement.
• A minimum commitment of 6 months is required.

If you are passionate about wildlife care and education, and excited about making a meaningful contribution to conservation efforts, we encourage you to apply. “Please include three professional references and a cover letter detailing your interest with the application.”

We look forward to hearing from you!