Animal Care Internship

Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary is a non-profit facility dedicated to providing exceptional, life-long care to wolves, wolfdogs, and other wild canids in need. We are currently home to over 50 rescues including wolves, wolfdogs, coyotes, foxes, New Guinea singing dogs, Australian dingoes, red foxes, and more.

Wild Spirit’s Internship Program was developed and implemented in September of 2020 with the goal of providing Interns with the knowledge and skills required to obtain a career in the field of exotic animal care. Interns will be responsible for daily husbandry, diet preparation and feeding, enclosure maintenance, grounds-keeping, operant conditioning, enrichment, assisting with medical needs, and more. Individuals will also participate in hands-on learning opportunities through structured labs each week. Please note: All Interns will be required to participate in leading educational tours to the public (COVID-permitting).

Our ideal candidate will have an outstanding work ethic, good communication and conflict-resolution skills, and the ability to strictly follow safety protocols. Being self-motivated and showing initiative while working in a team environment is also important. Applicants must be 21 years of age or older.

• Candidates pursuing or having completed a degree in Biology, Zoology, or related field are preferred, but experience working with exotics may be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Six months experience working with large carnivores preferred but not required.

• Must be in good physical condition with the ability to kneel, bend, twist, lift, reach, push, pull, and stand for long periods of time

• Must be able to consistently lift 50 pounds

• Must be comfortable on ladders and willing to operate tools and machinery

• Must be able to work in inclement weather and extreme heat

• Must present yourself in a professional manner when interacting with the public

• Must possess a valid Driver’s License

• Must provide proof of current Tetanus

• May be required to work weekends and holidays

We are currently offering up to 5 full-time positions for the duration of 3-6 months. All internships start as 3 month commitments and may be extended to 6 months on an invitational basis. Interns receive a $125 per two week stipend. Housing, utilities, and wi-fi are also provided.

Interested candidates should use the following link to apply for a position: https://form.jotform.com/wildspiritws/wsws-volunteer-application

Candidates will be selected to begin the Spring/Summer Internship as follows: April 1, 2021 – July 1, 2021 (start date and term is flexible.)

Qualifying candidates will be contacted for a Zoom interview no later than February 15, 2021 and those selected for the position will be notified no later than March 1, 2021.