Wildlife Nursery Rehabilitator Job Overview

The Wildlife Nursery Rehabilitator provides compassionate, hands-on care for orphaned, sick, and injured native wildlife, helping patients recover and develop the skills needed for successful release back into their natural habitats. This position plays a vital role in all aspects of wildlife rehabilitation, including nursery care, rehabilitation, triage, and release operations.

The ideal candidate is energetic, adaptable, and capable of thriving in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities. This position requires flexibility to work both indoors and outdoors and a commitment to providing exceptional animal care while supporting the Center's mission. As a member of our team, you will collaborate with staff, volunteers, and interns to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare species-appropriate diets and formulas; feed and provide fresh water to assigned patients throughout the day.
• Clean, sanitize, and maintain indoor and outdoor animal enclosures while ensuring patient safety and comfort.
• Set up and maintain habitats with appropriate furnishings and enrichment.
• Observe patients for medical, behavioral, or husbandry concerns and promptly communicate findings to supervisors or veterinary staff.
• Administer medical treatments or assist veterinary staff as directed.
• Perform species-specific feeding techniques and adjust feeding schedules based on patient needs.
• Accurately document feedings, medications, treatments, and behavioral observations in patient records.
• Safely capture, transport, and transfer animals throughout the facility while maintaining accurate database records.
• Provide environmental enrichment to encourage natural behaviors and support successful rehabilitation.
• Monitor inventory and restock animal care supplies as needed.
• Perform general housekeeping duties, including laundry, dishwashing, mopping, and maintaining clean workspaces.
• Ensure all work areas, habitats, and rehabilitation spaces remain clean, organized, and safe for staff, volunteers, and patients.
• Provide husbandry support across all areas of the rehabilitation process, including triage, nursery, rehabilitation, and release operations as needed.
• Mentor, train, and provide guidance to volunteers and interns.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

QualificationsRequired Skills and Abilities

• Strong animal handling skills and keen observational abilities.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, multitask effectively, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to follow written protocols and accurately document observations.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for at least 25 yards and perform physically demanding tasks including bending, climbing, crawling, and working in confined spaces.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying and occasionally extreme weather conditions.
• Positive attitude, integrity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to wildlife conservation and rehabilitation.
• Willingness to receive pre-exposure rabies vaccination and maintain required booster vaccinations throughout employment, if not already vaccinated.

Education & Experience

A high school diploma or equivalent is required. An associate's or bachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Wildlife Management, or a related field is preferred. Previous experience handling wildlife or exotic animals is highly desirable. Candidates must possess a valid Florida driver's license and maintain a safe driving record throughout their employment.

Work Schedule

The Center operates 365 days per year. Team members should expect to work a schedule that includes weekends and holidays on a regular basis.

Typical work hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with a one-hour unpaid lunch break. Overtime may be required with prior approval based on operational needs.

As ambassadors of the Center, employees may also be asked to participate in educational programs, public events, after-hours functions, and off-site activities that support the organization's mission.