Wildlife Care Assistant

MARS Wildlife Rescue is seeking a Wildlife Care Assistant to support their rehabilitation program at the Merville, BC hospital. Responsibilities include animal care, medical assessments, habitat preparation, public communication, and maintaining hygiene standards. This position is ideal for youth interested in veterinary medicine or environmental sciences, requiring hands-on experience with local wildlife. Applicants must be aged 18-30, Canadian citizens or residents, and able to work in a physically demanding environment.
The Wildlife Care Assistant will work in the MARS Wildlife Hospital and provide support to the wildlife rehabilitation program, assisting with all aspects of animal care from rescue to release. This position is ideal for youth seeking a career in the fields of veterinary medicine, wildlife rehabilitation, or environmental sciences. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a variety of local wildlife, as well as learn about and apply knowledge of species ecology and human-wildlife conflicts.

Responsibilities
• Assist with medical assessments, diagnostic procedures, and treatments of sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife;
• Prepare specialized diets and habitats for patients based on their natural history, growth stage, and individual needs;
• Maintain the hospital facility, outbuildings, and enclosures to a high standard of hygiene and organization;
• Communicate with the public about wildlife situations and patient care, representing the organization in a professional and conscientious manner;
• Maintain accurate rehabilitation and telephone records;
• Assist with rescue operations ensuring safe capture, handling, and restraint of wildlife;
• Provide guidance to volunteers and work experience students, ensuring compliance with animal care and safety protocols;
• Assist with communication between the MARS Wildlife Hospital and Visitor Centre, reporting on animal care activities, trends, and interesting educational opportunities;
• Participate in regular team meetings to discuss cases, resolve issues, and improve quality of care and the work environment;
• Promote a positive team atmosphere during all work activities, contributing to an inclusive and respectful workplace culture;
• Adhere to the organization’s health and safety policies and protocols and report issues in a timely manner.

Eligibility

This position is dependent on funding from the federal Canada Summer Jobs program. To be eligible for this funding, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of the employment (please also see MARS age requirement below);
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment;
• Have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.

Requirements

Due to the dangers and disease risks associated with wildlife, the minimum age requirement for employment in the MARS Wildlife Hospital is 18.

In addition, preference will be given to applicants with the following qualifications:
• A demonstrated interest in biological, environmental, veterinary sciences;
• Previous animal care experience;
• The ability to handle a physically and often emotionally demanding workload;
• Good written and verbal communication skills;
• Transportation to and from work – valid driver’s license preferred;
• Availability evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• The successful candidate will need to submit proof of current tetanus vaccination prior to their start date.

For full job description and details, please visit our website here

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please email your resume and cover letter to megan@marswildliferescue.com. Documents should be attached in PDF form, with your name and “Wildlife Care Assistant” in the subject line.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. This position is dependent on funding from the Canada Summer Jobs program, which may not be confirmed by Service Canada until May.