clinic Internships
This program is ideal for an individual who wants to receive hands-on experience in the operations & daily care of patients in a high-volume wildlife hospital. It is intended for those interested in a career in wildlife rehabilitation, veterinary medicine, zookeeping, or environmental conservation.
Clinic interns will report directly to clinic staff and assist in many different aspects of rehabilitative care of native wildlife species. These duties cover multiple areas as follows:
Identify Florida native and non-native species, perform intake exams, age and sex various avian and mammal species, and identify abnormal behaviors.
Learn and practice proper restraint, capture, and handling techniques of various taxa; including songbirds, seabirds, and raptors.
Gain experience in proper cleaning, disinfection protocols, as well as cage and outdoor enclosure setup.
Calculate, prepare, and administer medications and subcutaneous fluids.
Perform and master various feeding techniques, including tube feeding and tong/assisted feeding.
Maintain accurate patient records, monitor vital signs, and learn how staff creates treatment plans.
Advanced Clinical Procedures (for returning interns or those with prior requisite experience): Assist clinic staff in surgeries, wound care and management (wraps/splints/shoes), positioning for radiographs (X-rays), blood draws, and other laboratory work.
Internship Sessions:
Spring: January-May | Deadline: Nov 1st
Summer: May-August | Deadline: Mar 1st
Fall: August-December | Deadline: Jul 8th
requirements:
Applicants must be 18 years old
Preference is given to current college students or recent graduates.
Applicants must fill out the online application (below) and submit a resume. Cover letters are required.
Interns must be able to commit to the entire session period for two full shifts per week, 9AM - 5PM.
Internships are unpaid and housing is not provided.
Must have good communication skills, both verbal and written.
Applicants must have health insurance.
Applicants must submit to a background check prior to orientation.
All interns must agree to and sign rules and regulations in regard to commitment, dress code, code of conduct, photo policies, and liability waivers.
Applicants will be notified when all required documents are received. Those selected for interviews will be subsequently notified. Applications received after the deadline or missing required information will not be considered.
