Avian Haven is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of Maine’s bird species. We have the largest avian case load of any rehabilitation facility in northern New England, taking in approximately 3,000 birds per year from more than one hundred species. At any given time during peak season, we have about 150-200 birds on site. Birds come to us for a variety of reasons, such as being hit by a car, being shot, flying into a window, disease, or simply falling from the nest. Whatever the reason, each patient is treated to the best of our ability, with hopes of releasing it back into the wild.
Seasonal interns will gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry, diet preparation, clinical care, restraint and handling, avian identification, record keeping, and more. During your internship, you will have the opportunity to work alongside our experienced staff and receive training that will help you in your future career path. Once trained, we will expect interns to be able to work both independently and with other team members to safely and efficiently complete daily tasks.
Internships run from mid/late May through late August-early September. This is our busiest season, and we do expect a commitment from our interns once they accept the position. For our full-time interns, this internship is a 40 hour/week commitment. We also have a limited availability for part-time interns, who would commit to 20+ hours/week in blocks of 5 hours or more.
Primary Responsibilities
- Ensure animal husbandry needs are met for all patients including appropriate diet, housing, habitat maintenance, and enrichment
- Maintain a sanitary environment throughout the facility
- Observe and document patient behaviors
- Record observations, weight checks, and other pertinent information in RaptorMed
- Follow all safety protocols
- Assist team members in specialized project
- Assist Admissions team with public interactions
- During clinic rotation, assist with:
- Physical examinations
- Radiography
- Venipuncture
- Supplemental fluid administration
- Parasite identification and treatment
- Calculation and administration of medications
- Other specialized procedures under the supervision of the clinic team
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Access to reliable transportation
- Commitment to following wildlife rehabilitation standards including regarding euthanasia
- Motivated self-starter
- Excellent time management and communication skills
- Dedication to upholding and contributing towards Avian Haven’s positive work culture standards
- Enthusiasm to learn and develop new skills
- Completed Liability and Confidentiality & Code of Ethics forms
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree or current enrollment in an animal science, animal husbandry, zoology, or wildlife-related program
- Knowledge of Maine’s wildlife species
- Familiarity with wildlife rehabilitation
Work Environment and Physical Demands
- Must be able to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions including rain, high heat, humidity, and high winds
- Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and evenings
- Must be able to do lift and move a minimum of 50 lbs. without assistance
- Must be able to stand, walk, kneel, and crouch for prolonged periods of time
- Must be comfortable learning how to prepare food for carnivorous animals
- Interns may come into contact with zoonotic diseases, chemicals, radiography equipment, potentially combative animals, and allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, etc.
Compensation
- Successful full-time applicants may be eligible for a stipend of up to $500
- Limited on-site housing is available. Living facilities are small but comfortable, and include a kitchen, bath, private bedroom, living area, washer/dryer, and Wi-Fi. Pets cannot be accommodated in intern housing.
- Full-time and part-time internships are available for those who live in the area and can commute.
Non-Discrimination Statement
Avian Haven does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, national origin, ancestry, public assistance, ethnic background, religion, marital status, economic class, age, disability (mental or physical), sex, creed, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression and any other legally protected characteristics in admission or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. The organization complies with all applicable national, state and local laws pertaining to non-discrimination and equal opportunity.
How to Apply?
To apply, please submit as a PDF attachment a letter of interest, a resume, and three references to: admin@avianhaven.org. No phone calls please. Deadline for application is close of business January 15, 2025. Applications submitted after that date will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the office determines applications will no longer be accepted.