Senior Wildlife Rehabilitator

The International; United States; On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The International is seeking a dedicated Wildlife Rehabilitator to join their team full-time at the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center. Candidates must possess a current New York State Wildlife Rehabilitator License and have prior wildlife rehabilitation experience.

This role involves comprehensive wildlife care, including patient assessment, treatment planning, and mentoring. Ideal candidates will exhibit strong animal husbandry skills, effective communication, and the capability to thrive in challenging environments. The position also requires flexibility to manage demanding workloads during peak seasons.

Qualifications

• Previous wildlife rehabilitation experience handling native wildlife species.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and emergency shifts as needed.
• Experience with wildlife databases and medical record keeping.

Responsibilities

• Triage and assess incoming wildlife patients.
• Develop and implement treatment and rehabilitation plans.
• Administer medications and monitor patient progress.
• Supervise and mentor junior staff and volunteers.

Skills

Animal husbandry and observation skills

Decision-making skills in fast-paced environments

Communication and organizational skills

Ability to lift 50 pounds

Education

Current New York State Wildlife Rehabilitator License

Job description

Wildlife Rehabilitator (Full-Time)

The Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center is seeking an experienced, dedicated, and compassionate Wildlife Rehabilitator to join our team as a full-time member of our Wildlife Hospital staff.

As a senior member of the rehabilitation team, you will participate in all aspects of wildlife care and hospital operations. This position requires a current New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Wildlife Rehabilitator License and previous hands‑on wildlife rehabilitation experience. Rabies vaccination is strongly preferred, as the Center is licensed to rehabilitate Rabies Vector Species (RVS).

Position Schedule

This is a full‑time position consisting of four 10‑hour days per week. The successful candidate will work closely with another Senior Wildlife Rehabilitator, as well as junior rehabilitation staff, interns, and volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Triage and assess incoming wildlife patients.
• Develop and implement treatment and rehabilitation plans.
• Administer medications, wound care, and supportive treatments as directed by established protocols and veterinary guidance.
• Monitor patient progress and maintain accurate medical and rehabilitation records.
• Supervise and mentor junior staff, interns, and volunteers in proper animal care and handling techniques.
• Assist in coordinating daily hospital operations and patient care schedules.
• Advise phone staff, volunteers, and members of the public regarding wildlife concerns, rescues, and conflict‑resolution situations.
• Coordinate and oversee the care of orphaned wildlife, including species requiring intensive feeding schedules.
• Participate in enclosure cleaning, food preparation, enrichment, and release planning.
• Assist with intake examinations, transport coordination, and euthanasia decisions when necessary and appropriate.
• Provide occasional care and enrichment recommendations for the Center's resident Education Animals.

Seasonal Responsibilities

Spring and summer are particularly demanding seasons, with large numbers of orphaned and injured wildlife admitted to the hospital. Candidates should be prepared for extended workloads during these periods. Some patients may require frequent feedings outside of normal working hours, and qualified staff may occasionally be asked to provide temporary at‑home feeding support for neonatal wildlife.

Qualifications

Required

• Current New York State Wildlife Rehabilitator License.
• Previous wildlife rehabilitation experience, including handling a variety of native wildlife species.
• Strong animal husbandry and observation skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions in a fast‑paced and emotionally challenging environment.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks, including standing, bending, cleaning enclosures, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and occasional emergency shifts as needed.

Preferred

• Current rabies pre‑exposure vaccination.
• Experience with Rabies Vector Species.
• Experience supervising staff, interns, or volunteers.
• Knowledge of wildlife medicine, nutrition, enrichment, and release criteria.
• Experience with wildlife databases and medical record keeping.

About the Position

Wildlife rehabilitation is rewarding but demanding work that requires compassion, attention to detail, flexibility, and resilience. The successful candidate will be committed to providing the highest standard of care while working collaboratively with staff, volunteers, veterinarians, and the public to achieve the best possible outcomes for wildlife.