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Animal Caretaker Intern information

What does an animal caretaker intern do?

An Animal Caretaker Intern assists with the daily care and welfare of animals in facilities such as shelters, zoos, or veterinary clinics. Typical responsibilities include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and supporting enrichment activities. Interns often work alongside experienced caretakers or veterinary staff to learn proper animal handling, basic medical care, and facility operations. This role provides hands-on experience essential for those interested in animal science or veterinary careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal caretaker intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Caretaker Intern, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, proper handling techniques, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal care software, cleaning equipment, and safety protocols is often required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining animal welfare, ensuring facility cleanliness, and supporting the daily operations of animal care environments.

What are some common challenges animal caretaker interns face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Animal Caretaker Interns often encounter challenges such as adapting to unpredictable animal behavior, managing physically demanding tasks, and maintaining strict hygiene standards. Interns can effectively manage these challenges by staying observant, following established protocols, and seeking guidance from experienced staff. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about asking questions can also help interns learn quickly and ensure the well-being of the animals in their care.

How to be an animal caretaker intern with no experience?

To become an animal caretaker intern with no experience, focus on gaining basic knowledge of animal care through volunteering or educational courses, and demonstrate a willingness to learn. Many internships accept applicants without prior experience if they show enthusiasm, responsibility, and good communication skills. Certifications in animal handling or first aid can also improve your chances.

What qualifications do you need to be an animal caretaker intern?

Animal Caretaker Interns typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a genuine interest in animal welfare. Relevant skills include basic knowledge of animal behavior, good communication, and the ability to handle animals safely; some positions may require prior experience or certifications in animal care or first aid. Physical stamina and the ability to work outdoors or in animal enclosures are also important.

What cities are hiring for Animal Caretaker Intern jobs?

Cities with the most Animal Caretaker Intern job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Caretaker jobs?

The most popular types of Animal Caretaker jobs are:

What states have the most Animal Caretaker Intern jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Caretaker Intern jobs include:

Animal Caretaker Intern jobs near you

Caregiver, Animal Wellness

Farm Sanctuary

Watkins Glen, NY

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

***Applications for this position will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their applications at the earliest opportunity to maximize their chances of consideration.***

Summary: As a vital member of the Sanctuary team, the Caregiver, Animal Wellness provides essential daily needs to the residents. They assist in helping achieve optimal wellbeing for all the residents which includes their physical, emotional, cognitive and social health. The Caregiver, Animal Wellness works closely with the management team to identify concerns, course of action and implementation of quality care. They should have a strong desire and ability to perform hands-on work and a personal commitment to improving the lives of farmed animals. 

Responsibilities:

  • Carry out and maintain Animal feeding and watering schedules
  • Perform animal health care tasks and treatments
    • Identify common health issues
    • Discuss treatment options
  • Prepare and administer medications
    • Display a basic understanding of medications
    • Dose medications
  • Observe and document animal behaviors and wellness 
  • Complete shelter projects as assigned such as feed ordering, med ordering, charting
  • Provide daily enrichment
  • Assist with veterinarian appointments
  • Participate in health checks
    • Perform proper animal handling techniques
  • Partake in wellness meetings
  • Explore innovative techniques including cooperative care, holistic care, etc.
  • Supports Animal Care Intern Program by working with Interns onsite in daily tasks

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout sanctuary grounds. 
  • Must be able to perform strenuous physical labor and lifting (up to 50 lbs regularly; team-lift heavier amounts regularly)
  • Must be able to bend, lift, push, stoop, stretch, climb, and crawl and other strenuous  physical activities
  • Must be able to regularly perform job responsibilities work in a variety of weather conditions; almost all work is done in outdoor setting that is not climate controlled

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of one year as a Farm Sanctuary Assistant Caregiver, Animal Wellness OR Minimum two years' experience at animal care facility; volunteer history at animal advocacy organization(s); candidates with only one year of experience may still be considered but would start as an Assistant Caregiver, Animal Wellness
  • Keen animal behavior observation skills
  • Demonstrates ability to follow detailed instructions and perform animal care duties as assigned
  • Ability to work well with a variety of people and contribute to a healthy team environment
  • Reliable and dependable with timeliness and attendance
  • Commitment to Farm Sanctuary's animal care policies
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record, preferred
  • Alignment with Farm Sanctuary's values of compassion, understanding, integrity, transformation, and freedom. 
  • Familiarity, commitment to, and experience with the practice of equity and social justice, and the principles embedded in Farm Sanctuary's mission

We embrace candidates from a range of backgrounds and experiences, regardless of whether they satisfy all the specified requirements. We encourage you to apply, even if you have an unconventional or non-traditional background

Specifications:

  • Terms of employment: Permanent full-time, non-exempt position
  • Reports to: Manager, Wellness
  • Pay: $20 per hour
    • Farm Sanctuary adheres to a non-negotiation philosophy regarding compensation and benefits outside the posted pay in our commitment to equitable hiring practices.
  • Location: Watkins Glen
  • Travel:  Occasional travel may be required to assist with transport for animal adoptions or rescues
  • Benefits: Competitive benefits package, including 13 paid holidays; generous paid time off; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; 403(b) plan; flexible spending accounts; long-term disability insurance; free access to the CALM meditation app; and access to the Nivati wellness platform
  • Additional Specifications: Work schedule varies; regular weekend and holiday availability required; evening hours may be required during summer months

Our Process:

  • Stage 1: 30-minute virtual interview with People and Culture team member
  • Stage 2: 1-hour video interview with Animal Care manager
  • Stage 3: 2 Day On-Site Working Interview
  • Stage 4: Reference Checks
  • Stage 5: Job Offer

Farm Sanctuary is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees are respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging. We work hard to provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type. We take our duty seriously to protect employees with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

We believe that our prioritization of diversity, equity, and inclusion is a strength and essential to achieving our mission. A diverse workforce brings many perspectives, ideas, and experiences, leading to more creative and effective solutions to our complex issues. By embracing diversity and creating an inclusive environment, we foster a culture of belonging where innovation and growth can thrive. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our organization, including hiring and recruitment practices, employee development and training, and interactions with the communities we serve. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are core components in fulfilling our mission of rescuing and protecting farmed animals from cruelty, and we are committed to creating a culture of respect, civility, and compassion for all.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Any photos or videos taken in the scope of employment and/or related to Farm Sanctuary are considered work product and intellectual property of Farm Sanctuary.

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