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Volunteer Wildlife Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Second Chance Wildlife Center, a 501(c)3 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and Veterinary Hospital in ... Training and supervising the Interns and Volunteers working during your shifts; * Maintaining ...

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Second Chance Wildlife Center, a 501(c)3 Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and Veterinary Hospital in ... Training and supervising the Interns and Volunteers working during your shifts; * Maintaining ...

$106K/yr

You will serve as a Wildlife Refuge Manager for the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. Midway ... Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work ...

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Volunteer Wildlife information

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$8

$19

$33

How much do volunteer wildlife jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer wildlife in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer wildlife worker?

Volunteer Wildlife workers are individuals who dedicate their time and effort to support wildlife conservation, rehabilitation, and education efforts without financial compensation. They may assist with tasks such as caring for injured or orphaned animals, maintaining habitats, conducting research, or helping with public outreach programs. These volunteers can work with wildlife organizations, rehabilitation centers, or nature reserves and often gain valuable hands-on experience in animal care and conservation. Volunteering in this field is a meaningful way to contribute to protecting wildlife and learning more about environmental issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a volunteer wildlife worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer Wildlife Worker, you typically need a basic understanding of animal behavior, conservation principles, and sometimes relevant coursework or field experience. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS devices, and animal care protocols is often required, and some organizations value certifications in wildlife handling or first aid. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help volunteers effectively support conservation goals and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring animal welfare, safety, and the successful execution of conservation projects.

What are some common challenges faced by volunteer wildlife workers, and how can they be addressed?

Volunteer Wildlife workers often face challenges such as adapting to unpredictable outdoor environments, handling injured or distressed animals, and managing emotionally demanding situations. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as volunteers frequently collaborate with staff, veterinarians, and fellow volunteers. Building resilience, staying informed about safety protocols, and seeking support from experienced team members can help overcome these challenges while ensuring both personal well-being and the best outcomes for wildlife.

What is the difference between Volunteer Wildlife vs Volunteer Conservationist?

AspectVolunteer WildlifeVolunteer Conservationist
Required CredentialsNone or basic knowledge, sometimes certifications in animal careOften similar, may include environmental or conservation certifications
Work EnvironmentWildlife reserves, parks, rehabilitation centersConservation projects, fieldwork, community outreach
Employer & Industry UsageWildlife organizations, parks, NGOs focused on animal welfareEnvironmental NGOs, conservation agencies, research projects
Search & Comparison IntentPeople interested in hands-on animal care and wildlife activitiesIndividuals seeking broader conservation efforts and environmental impact

Volunteer Wildlife roles focus on direct animal care and wildlife habitat work, often in parks or rehab centers. Volunteer Conservationist positions encompass broader environmental efforts, including habitat preservation and community outreach. Both roles support conservation but differ in scope and activities.

More about Volunteer Wildlife jobs

What cities are hiring for Volunteer Wildlife jobs?

Cities with the most Volunteer Wildlife job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Wildlife jobs?

The most popular types of Wildlife jobs are:

What states have the most Volunteer Wildlife jobs?

States with the most job openings for Volunteer Wildlife jobs include:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Wildlife job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Technician

Powell, OH

Ohio Wildlife Center
11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Ohio Wildlife Center Position Description

WILDLIFE REHABILITATOR TECHNICIAN

Position Type: Full Time (40 hours per week)

Location: Ohio Wildlife Center, Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic

Reports to: Staff Supervisor and Operational Director

Summary: Wildlife rehabilitators are responsible for the care of injured, sick, or orphaned animals. Responsibilities include providing our patient animals with food, shelter, and medical attention until they're healthy enough to be released back into their natural habitat.

Major Functions and Responsibilities

Wildlife rehabilitators have a wide range of responsibilities which can include:

  • Admission and triage of new wildlife patients

  • Administration of appropriate medications, treatments and therapies, including humane euthanasia when necessary

  • Observing animals' behavior, interactions with each other, and reactions to stimuli in their environment in order to determine their best care plan

  • Cleaning and maintenance of wildlife areas and enclosures

  • Cleaning and maintenance of clinic stations including kitchen, reception, etc

  • Provide daily care of patients including preparation and distribution of appropriate diets and fresh water for patients

  • Regular health checks for patients (body condition, behavior, weight, etc)

  • Provide appropriate housing for wildlife patients

  • Maintaining detailed records of treatments and observations of each animal's progress over time

  • Keep track of animal locations and dispositions using our preferred database

  • Identifying wildlife species

  • Understanding life history of wildlife patients and commitment to continued learning

  • Educating the public about wildlife conservation and safety measures to prevent injury from animals

  • Guide volunteers through foundation tasks, assist in delegating jobs when needed

  • Assists seasonal staff in orphan program management and support

  • Assist homecare with supply needs

  • Release preparation and assessment

  • Assist with release scheduling. This includes contacting presenters or property owners for permission, coordinating with volunteers, and marking on the calendars.

  • Other duties as assigned

Required Abilities and Skills

  • Excellent oral and written communications skills; including public speaking

  • Competency in basic word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software

  • Experience in conflict resolution and strong creative problem-solving skills

  • Understanding of and commitment to the role and mission of Ohio Wildlife Center

  • Physically fit; able to lift 50 pounds and no aversion to inclement weather

  • Obtain rabies vaccinations (upon employment) and maintain titers

  • Clean background check, valid Ohio motor vehicle operator's license and good driving record

  • Willingness to learn and uphold the laws of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ohio Division of Wildlife, and animal regulations of local municipalities

  • Maintain professional appearance (includes wearing appropriate, well-kept uniform)

  • Adhere to policies and operating standards of Ohio Wildlife Center

  • Positively promote Ohio Wildlife Center's programs and services

  • Maintain positive attitude and public image at all times

  • Extensive knowledge of animal care to provide the best care for the animals. This includes knowing how to handle and feed different types of wildlife, how to provide them with medical care and how to keep them safe and comfortable in their rehabilitation space.

  • Strong communication skills with other professionals, such as veterinarians, to ensure the health of the animals they treat. They also communicate with the public to educate them about wildlife rehabilitation and to encourage them to report injured animals.

  • Ability to solve problems by researching solutions and implementing them.

  • Attention to details and organizational skills, as they often have many responsibilities and tasks to complete.

  • Adaptability as may be exposed to weather conditions that may change throughout the day as well as work with a variety of animals, some of which may be more challenging to care for than others.

  • Ability to work an untraditional schedule which may include weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.