Assistant Wildlife Caretaker

This is a full-time, on-site animal care position. NLWS specializes in the care of orphaned bear cubs (both Grizzly and Black Bears) and facilitates their rescue, care and release in BC. But we also are open to all BC mammals and assist in the rescue of birds of prey. You may get to care for moose, deer, foxes, squirrels, flying squirrels, woodchucks, coyotes, porcupines, otters, beavers and other BC mammal species. We never know what we will see coming in.
We also aim to participate in research projects wherever possible so you could be part of an interesting study project and gain insights into how they work.
An average day consists of food preparations, enclosure cleaning and providing enrichment to our patients.  Additional activities include participating in rescues and releases, medical procedures, fundraising events and educational demonstrations. 
NLWS animal care commitments range from 3 to 12 months with priority given to those that can commit a longer term. The longer the term the more involved you will be in animal care.
Working at a wildlife rewilding center can be very intense at times, and you have to be 100% committed. You will experience a wide range of emotions. This is not a holiday; we all work hard to help wildlife in need. With any luck, you will be working an eight-hour day, but at times it can be up to 12 hours with intensive care patients or during rescues/releases. Your job will include feeding, food preparation, cleaning, laundry and maintenance work (painting, yardwork ect) Expect to be outside in all weather conditions, the work is VERY physical.‌