Our 2024 Summer Internships have been filled! Check back periodically to see if we have additional open intern positions.

Wildwoods is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation organization located in Duluth, Minnesota. We assist orphaned and injured animals from all over northeastern Minnesota and Wisconsin, while providing information and support to members of the community on responsibly living with wildlife. Wildwoods relies on a team of staff, interns and dedicated volunteers to provide daily care and treatment to the hundreds of animals that are admitted to the facility each year.  Examples of the types of animals you will be frequently working with are small orphaned and injured mammals, nestling song birds, ducklings and fawns. You will also be working with a variety of injured wildlife with staff supervision.

In 2023, we admitted 889 animals across 123 species.  This internship is a fantastic learning opportunity. Our interns are responsible for a variety of tasks and work closely alongside our staff.

Program Summary

We have at least two paid summer internships each year. The animal care intern will work directly with the shift supervisor to provide daily care for orphaned and injured wildlife including small mammals, birds, reptiles and raptors.  Interns will also have the opportunity to observe various medical procedures, assist with intake triage, and learn how to calculate medication dosages and how to administer them to different species. Interns will be required to assist with diet preparation, kennel and enclosure maintenance, cleaning, and various special projects.

Paid Internship Description:

• The paid internship position requires a minimum of 32 hours per week (four 8-hour shifts; shifts are from 7:30am – 3:30pm and 2:00pm – 10:00pm).
• We operate seven days a week, including holidays, so some of your shifts may fall on a weekend or holiday.
• This is paid position, $10.50 per hour. Housing is not provided.
• The internship period begins April 1 and ends September 30. You must be committed to at least three months within this time period. The start and end dates are flexible.
• A pre-exposure rabies vaccination is required in order to work with raccoons, bats, canids, and mustelids and it is a requirement for paid interns. You will be required to show proof upon hire.

Duties

• Assist with diet and food preparation
• Assist with feeding and basic animal husbandry
• Maintain accurate and legible care records
• Work with and assist volunteers with daily tasks
• Observe animal behavior for any signs of abnormalities
• Provide animal enrichment (when necessary)
• Ensure that the nursery is kept clean and organized

Responsibilities

• Follow all established policies and procedures when working at Wildwoods
• Work respectfully alongside Wildwoods staff and volunteers
• Arrive on time for each work shift and complete each scheduled work shift in its entirety
• Communicate any schedule changes with the appropriate supervisor
• Professionally address any concerns with a shift supervisor or the Executive Director in a timely manner
• Maintain a positive attitude

Qualifications

• Must have a strong interest in wildlife rehabilitation and be pursuing a degree related to wildlife or biology. Other degree programs will be considered.
• Be available to work flexible hours potentially including weekdays, weekends, evenings, and some holidays.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift objects in excess of 30lbs routinely
• Provide proof that you are up to date with your tetanus vaccination (a requirement to work/volunteer at Wildwoods)
• Provide proof of rabies vaccination (if applicable)

If you are interested in applying for the summer internship, please submit your cover letter, resume, and three references to jessica@wildwoodsrehab.org. Use this same e-mail for any questions.