Internships

Internships

Each year, Northwoods Wildlife Center hires 2 spring, 8 summer and 2 fall college student and recent graduate interns, interested in gaining more experience in the fields of wildlife rehabilitation, environmental education, and non-profit management fields. Interns work with injured and orphaned wildlife and educate the public through guided Center tours, while supporting the daily operations of a non-profit organization.

intern coordinator, Rafe, and 2 interns standing in front of Northwoods wildlife center sign

two interns feeding a goose patient

Application Deadlines

Applications should be sent as soon as possible for consideration. We review on a rolling basis, so internship positions often fill up before the deadline.

  • Spring: January 15th, 2025
  • Summer: February 14th, 2025
  • Fall: July 15th, 2025

Details

Interns are involved in all phases of wildlife rehabilitation, including emergency care, daily feeding and cleaning, observing medical procedures, on-call services, rescues, transports, releases, enclosure and facility maintenance, administrative support, and care of non-releasable ambassador animals kept at the Center for educational purposes.  Interns work closely with Center visitors through daily guided tours and our wildlife assistance phone-line, and may assist in educational programs given at area schools, camps, and other community events.  Interns may also help in the development of future educational opportunities for the public as well as assist with producing content for our social media and podcast.

Housing is provided for Northwoods Wildlife Center interns – all interns will live on-site and share on-call duties for the duration of the internship. Interns share a living space, and so must be comfortable living in a co-ed, dorm style housing arrangement. Interns will have at least one roommate, and must be willing to share a room and communal living space with other interns. A $150 weekly food stipend is provided for all interns. It is recommended that interns have their own means of transportation, but a vehicle is provided for all Center business.

Qualifications

  • Strong interest in wildlife and a desire to increase public knowledge and awareness through education. Students in Biology, Wildlife Ecology, Pre-Vet, Environmental Education, and related fields are encouraged to apply. Applicants from other fields with a demonstrated interest in wildlife or environmental science will also be considered. 
  • At least one year of college experience required 
  • Must be up to date on tetanus shot, COVID-19 vaccine preferred 
  • Rabies vaccinations, although preferable, are not required 
  • Self-motivated and able to work responsibly without supervision
  • Must be able to dedicate the entire season to internship. Requested days off will be considered but are not guaranteed. 
  • Must be able to work long days in all weather and lift at least 50 lbs. Internship duties may include bending, crouching, twisting, lifting, crawling, standing, and walking for long periods of time.
  • Able to work and live in close quarters in a cooperative and professional manner with other interns of varying backgrounds, experience, and abilities
  • Must be willing to take direction, work hard, and adapt to schedule changes and unexpected situations as they come up.

Essential Skills

  • Hardworking with positive outlook and a sense of humor
  • Strong interpersonal skills, and able to work well independently and in a group
  • Ability to follow directions, both written and verbal, confident asking for clarification when needed
  • Can communicate calmly and clearly with others in all situations
  • Flexible and able to adapt in a fast paced, dynamic work environment
  • A desire to challenge yourself; take a solution-based approach to problems
  • Strong organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to quickly reprioritize as needed
  • Self-motivated, with the ability to complete assigned tasks with little or no supervision
  • Mature, calm, and resilient demeanor and able to stay composed in stressful situations

Internship Dates

To Apply

E-mail or mail cover letter, resume, and both phone and email contact for three professional references to the email address below.  In the subject line, indicate which session you are applying for.

Sheridan Perry
Wildlife Rehabilitator & Intern Coordinator
Subject Line: 2026 Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Internship
intern.nwc8683@gmail.com