About Wildlife Center of Long Island

Wildlife Center of Long Island is a 501©3 not-for-profit Wildlife Hospital & Education Center founded in 1982, dedicated to the preservation of Long Island’s wildlife and natural habitats. We receive over 10,000 calls to our Hotline annually and admit over 2,000 injured and orphaned wild animals to our Hospital composed of migratory birds, small mammals, amphibians & reptiles. In addition, we conduct education outreach programs for children and adults to foster knowledge and appreciation for Long Island’s wildlife.

Wildlife Center of Long Island operates out of two locations within the Town of Huntington. The primary location of work is in Centerport with a daily short trip to our outdoor enclosures, located about 6.5 miles away. Employees utilize their own vehicle for work travel and are reimbursed for mileage in accordance with IRS guidelines.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a reliable, compassionate Wildlife Caretaker to care for injured & orphaned native wildlife patients. This position is suited to someone with some experience in animal care and a strong desire to learn about the field of wildlife rehabilitation. Once trained, the caretaker will be working independently on daily animal care, usually with volunteer assistance. This position reports to both Center Co-Directors, who provide guidance and are available for questions and care decisions. 

Wildlife rehabilitation is physically demanding and emotionally challenging. Duties include prolonged standing, bending, lifting and carrying supplies, and repetitive cleaning. Not every patient survives or can be released; compassion, resilience, and a positive attitude are essential. For someone who is dependable, eager to learn, and committed to every aspect of animal care, this position offers rewarding work with a direct impact on the lives of local wildlife.

Responsibilities

• Prepare diets, feed patients, and provide daily husbandry according to species-specific instructions.
• Handle wildlife safely and carry out assigned basic medical care, including administering medications, as trained and directed.
• Observe patients closely, maintain accurate records, and promptly communicate changes or concerns.
• Clean and disinfect enclosures, equipment, work surfaces, floors, and shared care areas.
• Complete laundry, wash feeding supplies and dishes, remove waste, and organize storage areas.
• Restock supplies, monitor inventory, and promptly communicate supply needs.
• Complete daily tasks thoroughly, notice what needs attention, and help solve practical problems within the scope of training and established procedures.
• Work with volunteers assisting with daily tasks and follow organizational policies, safety practices, and sanitation procedures.

Qualifications

• Previous hands-on animal care experience is required.
• Background knowledge of native Long Island wildlife, including common species and their natural history, is preferred.
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for continued learning and self-study. We are looking for someone who enjoys building their knowledge, asks thoughtful questions, and is receptive to feedback and updated practices.
• Resourcefulness and practical problem-solving skills, from recognizing when an enclosure setup could be improved to helping address a routine facility issue.
• Strong reliability, organization, attention to detail, and follow-through.
• A proactive attitude toward cleaning, restocking, and routine facility upkeep.
• Emotional maturity, patience, and the ability to maintain a positive, constructive approach during challenging situations.
• Ability to work independently on tasks for which training has been completed, follow instructions consistently, recognize personal limits, and ask for help promptly.