Raptor Rehabilitation Internship
World Bird Sanctuary is a non-profit organization outside of St. Louis, MO that is committed to environmental education, avian conservation, and the rehabilitation of injured raptors from our surrounding area. Our hospital takes in over 700 wild patients each year as well as provides medical care to the 200+ permanent resident birds that call WBS home. Our hospital employs a full time veterinarian and performs surgeries and other advanced medical care in house.
Our 6 month rehabilitation internship is tailored for those pursuing a career in wildlife rehabilitation. Our goal is that interns be ready for a full time position in the field by the end of their internship. Internships are full time and scheduled as 4 10 hour days/week. Compensation includes on-site housing and utilities as well as a monthly living stipend. Rolling start dates are available year round. In general, positions are filled 3 months prior to the start date. Applications submitted after that point will still be considered if openings are still available.
The internship is designed to train the applicant and give hands-on experience in all aspects of raptor rehabilitation from husbandry to assisting with surgery. Skills taught include but are not limited to:
Diet Prep
Enclosure Cleaning
Hospital Maintenance
Raptor Husbandry
Raptor Catching & Restraint
Tube Feeding
Hand Feeding
Multiple Routes of Medicating
Administering Fluids
Running Basic Bloodwork
Making and Reading Fecal Slides
Drawing Blood
Physical Therapy
Wound Cleaning
Bandaging & Fracture Management
Examining New Patients
Taking & Reading Radiographs
Placing Catheters
Assisting with Surgical Procedures
Evaluating for Release
Qualifications
Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Must be able to work long hours on feet and be capable of bending, lifting, and carrying heavy objects.
Must be willing to work on some weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Must be 18 or older.
Must be able to work in a fast paced environment.
Must be able to work independently and take initiative on daily tasks.
Must possess a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
Must possess a valid US driver’s license.
To apply, send a cover letter, resume, 2 references, and desired start month to kklebe@worldbirdsanctuary.org