VINS Intern Position

Contact Us

802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

Nature Center Hours

VINS Nature Center
10am to 4pm Daily

Wild Bird Rehab is Open
Accepting Calls Only
802.359.5000 x212
8am to 4pm

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Avian Care Internship

Gain extensive hands-on training in raptor captive management and avian rehabilitation of songbirds, waterfowl, raptors and reptiles.

REPORTS TO: Director, Center for Wild Bird Rehabilitation

JOB LOCATION: The Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Quechee, VT, and the Center for Wild Bird Rehabilitation main headquarters is located at the VINS Nature Center. This private, non-profit organization was founded in 1972 and provides environmental education, research and avian rehabilitation. The institute is located in the scenic countryside of east central Vermont approximately 2 1/2 hours from Boston, MA and 1 1/2 hours from Burlington, VT. Vermont is a great state for skiing, hiking, birding and other outdoor recreation. To learn more about the live bird exhibits, forest canopy walk, nature trails, environmental education and research programs, please visit our website at vinsweb.org.

Avian Care Intern Duties

  • Provide captive management and husbandry for over 60 raptors and reptiles used for programs and in exhibits
  • Perform daily husbandry tasks for permanent residents used in educational programs and exhibits
  • Field phone calls about injured and orphaned birds and arrange transport with finders or volunteers
  • Assist rehabilitation staff with initial intake exams, medical treatments, and daily care of avian rehabilitation patients, including orphaned baby birds
  • Clean and maintain all indoor and outdoor animal facilities and aviaries

Qualifications

  • Passion for wildlife rehabilitation and conservation
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team
  • Strong interest in birds and wildlife husbandry
  • Willingness to work long, hard, irregular hours in all weather conditions
  • Good time management and organized
  • 18 years or older
  • Hold a valid driver’s license, and have own transportation
  • Physical capacity to catch and treat large birds, lift equipment weighing up to 40 pounds, climb stairs, and carry equipment for routine maintenance
  • Ability to work quickly & efficiently while following direction & procedures
  • Have updated tetanus vaccination at time of beginning internship
  • Available to work 40 hours per week
  • Have or working towards a college degree
  • COVID vaccinations up-to-date

Length of Internship

  • 6 months minimum, 40 hours per week (possibility of extended term or seasonal position based on performance)

Amenities

  • Hourly wage of $13.75/hr to be paid bi-weekly

Application

  • Cover letter (must include dates of availability, and career goals)
  • Resume
  • List of 3 references (must notify references at time of application)
  • In subject line when submitting application - include Avian Care Intern Applicant

Please send your application to Director, Center for Wild Bird Rehabilitation Grae O’Toole at gotoole@vinsweb.org.

VINS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization supported by membership dues, admission and program fees, donations, and grants.