Wildlife Rehabilitator
A Wildlife Rehabilitator cares for injured, sick, or orphaned wild animals with the goal of releasing them back into their natural habitats. They also educate the public about wildlife.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Wildlife Rehabilitator
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a junior Wildlife Rehabilitator, you will work under the supervision of senior staff to provide care and rehabilitation for injured, orphaned, or sick wildlife. This role involves hands-on care, as well as maintaining clean and safe environments for animals in recovery.
Required Skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Compassionate and patient approach to animal care.
- Good observational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work well under pressure and in emotionally challenging situations.
- Basic computer skills for record keeping and communication.
Qualifications
- Degree in Veterinary Science, Biology, Ecology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Current rabies immunization and/or willingness to receive it.
- Ability to identify common wildlife species and understand their basic needs.
- Basic understanding of animal behavior and rehabilitation techniques.
- Physical ability to handle various wildlife species and lift objects up to 50 pounds.
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel when necessary for rescue operations.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the examination and assessment of various wildlife species.
- Provide appropriate care, including feeding, medication, and physical therapy under supervision.
- Maintain and clean animal enclosures, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment.
- Record detailed notes on animal progress and treatments.
- Assist in the release of rehabilitated animals back into their natural habitats.
- Provide support in educational outreach programs about wildlife conservation.
- Participate in training and continue professional development in wildlife rehabilitation.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Wildlife Rehabilitator, you will be responsible for the care and rehabilitation of various species of wild animals that are injured, orphaned, or otherwise in need of assistance. You will work to ensure their return to their natural habitats as self-sufficient individuals.
Required Skills
- Strong diagnostic and animal care skills.
- Ability to work in physically demanding situations, including handling of wild animals and outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
- Excellent observational skills to detect health issues in wildlife.
- Good communication skills to collaborate with team members, volunteers, and the public.
- Problem-solving skills and ability to think critically in emergency situations.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in wildlife rehabilitation or related field.
- Degree in veterinary technology, biology, ecology, wildlife management or a related field.
- Possession of or eligibility to obtain rehabilitation and/or wildlife handling permits as required.
- Experience with handling a variety of wildlife species.
- Knowledge of natural history, ecology, and species-specific behavior of regional wildlife.
Responsibilities
- Assess and triage incoming wildlife, determining the most appropriate course of treatment.
- Provide medical care, including wound care, administering medications, and performing minor surgical procedures.
- Design and implement rehabilitation plans that cater to the specific needs of different wildlife species.
- Monitor progress of animals under rehabilitation, making adjustments to care plans as necessary.
- Prepare and provide species-appropriate diets and enrichment activities.
- Educate the public about local wildlife and promote conservation efforts.
- Maintain detailed records of animal care, treatment plans, and outcomes.
- Coordinate with veterinary professionals and other wildlife experts as needed.
- Ensure that all activities comply with pertinent local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a senior Wildlife Rehabilitator, you will be responsible for the care and rehabilitation of injured, sick, or orphaned wildlife. You will work to return healthy animals back to their natural habitats and may also be involved in public education and outreach programs to promote wildlife conservation. Your extensive experience will make you an invaluable member of our team, contributing to wildlife rescue operations and providing mentorship to less experienced staff.
Required Skills
- Advanced animal handling and care techniques.
- Expertise in wildlife medicine and rehabilitation procedures.
- Excellent observational and diagnostic abilities.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with the public and within the organization.
- Problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions.
- Physical fitness to perform outdoor fieldwork in various weather conditions.
- Compassion for animals and a dedication to preserving natural ecosystems.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, veterinary medicine, or a related field.
- Over 5 years of experience in wildlife rehabilitation or a similar role.
- Valid wildlife rehabilitation permit or license as required by local regulations.
- Proven track record of successfully rehabilitating and releasing various wildlife species.
- Strong knowledge of animal behavior, physiology, and species-specific care requirements.
- Ability to handle wildlife safely and compassionately.
- Experience with public speaking or educational outreach is a plus.
- Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) and wildlife tracking technology.
Responsibilities
- Provide medical care and rehabilitation for injured, sick, or orphaned wildlife.
- Develop and implement rehabilitation plans tailored to individual animal needs.
- Oversee the daily care routines and diets for a variety of wildlife species.
- Conduct release strategies for rehabilitated animals back into their natural habitats.
- Maintain accurate records of animal care, treatments, and outcomes.
- Train and supervise junior staff and volunteers in rehabilitation techniques and animal handling.
- Collaborate with veterinarians to manage animal health issues and complex cases.
- Engage with the public through education and outreach programs to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
- Advise on wildlife management policies and contribute to research studies on wildlife health.
- Ensure that all practices comply with relevant wildlife laws and rehabilitation standards.
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