Interns are invaluable to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. We are happy to provide 6-month, paid internships to individuals who are interested and passionate about wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. The unique ecosystem of the Florida Keys creates a great opportunity for interns to gain knowledge and experience working with a wide variety of avian species. From seabirds and shorebirds to raptors and songbirds, interns can expect to work hands-on alongside our Certified Wildlife Rehabilitators at Mission Wild Bird and independently at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary.
Our Avian Care internship consists of 5-day, 40-hour (sometimes more) work weeks. The schedule is split up so that individuals will be working 3-4 days a week at our Wild Bird Hospital and 1-2 days a week at our Sanctuary. We provide a $250 bi-weekly stipend and shared intern housing located on-site at our Sanctuary.
Hospital Duties include:
- Daily cleaning and feeding of Hospital patients
- Maintaining hospital cleanliness (i.e. sweeping, mopping, laundry, etc.)
- Keeping detailed and updated records on rehab patients
- Administering medication and fluid therapy
- Helping rehabilitators with medical procedures including wound care, fecal floats, and X-Rays
- Performing bird rescues, intakes, and releases
- Being on-call for bird emergency calls at least two nights per week
- Performing after-hours bird intakes
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Participating in at least one education outreach event
Sanctuary Duties include:
- Daily husbandry of permanent sanctuary residents (i.e. feeding, cleaning, checking enclosures, cleaning perches)
- Picking up donated fish from local marine centers and sorting fish for quality
- Feeding and cleaning of rehabilitation patients in medical and flight cages
- Occasional weighing of patients, assessing condition, and noting diet changes
- Researching, organizing, and providing enrichment for residents
- Interacting with visitors
Qualifications:
- At least 21 years old
- Willing to work 40 hours per week, including weekends and holidays with occasional evenings
- 6 month commitment
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and work in hot, humid, and rainy weather conditions
- Capable of multitasking and handling physically and mentally stressful tasks
- Ability to interact with the public in a professional manner
- Have a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and ability to work well with others
- Valid Driver's License and clean driving record
How to Apply
To apply, send your completed internship application (link here), resume, and cover letter to Greg Russ at careers@keepthemflying.org.
To access the application and find more information, please visit our website.
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