Job Title: Wildlife Rehabilitator I
Wildlife Center of Salt Lake
Job Summary
The Wildlife Rehabilitator I is responsible for answering phone calls and other queries from the general public, nonprofits, and federal or state agencies regarding wildlife issues; intake and triage; daily care of juvenile and adult animals; documentation; and evaluation and release of native wildlife, as permitted. This role requires hands-on animal care, collaboration with veterinary professionals, collaboration with peers and supervisor, adherence to state and federal wildlife regulations, management of day-to-day responsibilities, management of scheduled volunteers, and a strong commitment to animal welfare and conservation. This is a weekend position working Saturdays and Sundays from 9 to 5. Summer hours will change slightly. More hours may be available during busy season, and training is complete.
Key Responsibilities
- Answer phone calls during operating hours; ability to offer continuous support to callers until situation is resolved
- Maintain professionalism over the phone and in person
- Intake, document, assess, and triage injured, ill, or orphaned wildlife according to WCSL policies
- Provide daily care including feeding, cleaning enclosures, administering medications, and monitoring behavior and recovery
- Ability to manage time efficiently
- Assist with medical treatments under veterinary guidance
- Perform physical and chemical immobilizations
- Maintain detailed records of animal intake, treatment, and outcomes
- Prepare animals for release and participate in release efforts when appropriate
- Ensure enclosures meet species-specific welfare and safety standards
- Follow all state, federal, and organizational wildlife regulations and permit requirements
- Educate the public and volunteers on wildlife care, safety, and conservation as needed
- Support facility maintenance, sanitation, and biosecurity protocols
- Maintain animal welfare standards
Qualifications
- Degree or coursework in wildlife biology, zoology, animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field preferred
- Prior experience in wildlife rehabilitation, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or related animal care settings preferred
- Knowledge of local wildlife species, behavior, and handling techniques required
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
- Has basic knowledge and understanding of computers and technology
- Strong observational, organizational, and record-keeping skills
- Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work outdoors, and perform repetitive tasks
- Ability to work weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts as required. All staff must work rotating holidays.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Ability to independently problem-solve and apply critical thinking
- Compassion and patience when working with stressed or injured animals
- Attention to detail and commitment to animal welfare standards
- Ability to safely handle wildlife using appropriate restraint methods and PPE
- Strong communication skills with staff, volunteers, veterinarians, and the public
- Emotional resilience when working with sick, injured, or euthanized animals
Work Environment
- Outdoor and indoor settings including rehabilitation center, enclosures, and field sites
- Exposure to animals, zoonotic diseases, weather conditions, and physical demands
- Irregular hours based on wildlife intake needs and seasonal fluctuations
Compensation & Benefits
- Compensation based on experience and organizational structure and is $15.00-$18.00 for Wildlife Rehabilitator I
- At this time, WCSL does not provide health, dental, or vision insurance; paid time off, holiday pay, or retirement benefits. This may change as the organization grows.
Pay: $15.00 - $19.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
