NOTE: We are not accepting Wildlife Naturalist Internship Applications at this time. Please check back soon, or email Selah Ross as sross@paws.org org with any questions.
Address: 13508 State Route 9 SE,
Snohomish, WA 98296
As development encroaches on wildlife habitat, PAWS’ nationally recognized wildlife rehabilitation center rehabilitates sick, injured and orphaned animals and educates people about peaceful co-existence with wildlife.
Wildlife Naturalist Interns assist and support the Wildlife Naturalist, who manages the Wildlife Release Program in ensuring all animals are released in a timely and safe manner according to species natural history and permit requirements. Interns gain valuable, practical experience in species identification and natural history, proper husbandry techniques, animal handling, release strategies, and multimedia editing. Internships can be physically demanding and fast-paced.
Job Duties
- Research, identify, and assess potential wildlife release sites
- Safely handle, restrain, and contain animals for release in accordance with release guidelines
- Assist the Wildlife Naturalist Manager in wildlife releases
- Ensure all wildlife photographs are labeled, organized, and properly saved
- Edit videos for social media posts and donor appeals
- Create educational materials
Qualifications
Applicants must be current college students or high school graduates, recent college graduates or career changers, possess a strong interest in wildlife rehabilitation, animal handling skills, and a basic understanding of wildlife natural history. Applicants must be able to:
- Read, write and speak English fluently
- Work independently and as a part of a team
- Perform tedious tasks for long periods of time
- Do rigorous outdoor work in all types of weather
- Perform physically demanding tasks and lift up to 40 lbs
- Work quickly and efficiently while precisely following instructions and protocols
- Proficiency in the use of DSLR cameras and photo editing software preferred
Internship Terms
- Internships are available year-round
- Successful candidates must commit to a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks
- Interns work approximately 10-20 hours a week and scheduling is flexible
- Interns are unpaid
- Housing and transportation assistance are not provided
Application Instructions:
If you are interested in applying for an internship at the PAWS Wildlife Center, submit a resume and letter of intent, stating your career goals, qualifications, and what you can bring to the position, to Wildlife Volunteer Program Manager at sross@paws.org.
Alternatively, you can mail your application to:
Selah Ross, Wildlife Volunteer Program Manager
PAWS
PO Box 1037
Lynnwood, WA 98046
Application Deadlines
We accept applications on a rolling basis, however, we do have application deadlines depending on the season. Seasonal internship opportunities and application deadlines are listed below:
- Spring Internships: March-May/June (apply by December 31st of previous year)
- Summer Internships (Early): May-July/August (apply by March 31st)
- Summer Internships (Late): June-August/September (apply by March 31st)
- Fall Internships: August-October (apply by June 30th)
We will begin reviewing applications after these listed deadlines. However, we may consider applications on a rolling basis following the deadlines should spaces still be available.
The Decision Process
You will receive an email confirmation of our receipt of your application materials. We regret that we are unable to respond to status inquiries over the phone. Applications will continue to be reviewed until positions are full; however, applications received before the deadlines will be given priority.
Applicants will be notified by email should they be chosen to participate in an interview.
Questions?
Email Selah Ross, Wildlife Volunteer Program Manager at sross@paws.org