Wildlife Rehabilitator

Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue is seeking a Wildlife Rehabilitator for hands-on care and rehabilitation of injured wildlife. Responsibilities include animal care, volunteer support, facility maintenance, and public engagement. Candidates should have experience in wildlife rehabilitation or related fields. This is a six-month contract, full-time position based in Beith, United Kingdom, requiring physical work and weekend availability. The role emphasizes high welfare standards and teamwork.
The Wildlife Rehabilitator is responsible for the hands-on care, treatment, and rehabilitation of injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife at Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Centre. This role ensures that animals receive appropriate care and treatment in line with best practices, with the goal of successful rehabilitation and release. Wildlife Rehabilitators play a vital role in maintaining high welfare standards, assisting with rescues, and supporting volunteers in daily operations.

This is a six-month contract with the possibility of extension by mutual agreement

KEY RESPONSIBILTIES:

Wildlife Care & Rehabilitation
• Provide hands-on care for injured and orphaned wildlife, including feeding, cleaning, and medical treatment.
• Monitor the progress of animals, ensuring proper rehabilitation techniques are followed.
• Maintain hygiene and biosecurity standards across all animal enclosures and treatment areas.
• Assist with animal rescues, transportation, and releases back into the wild.

Volunteer Support & Training
• Work alongside volunteers, providing guidance and training on wildlife care procedures.
• Ensure volunteers adhere to safety protocols and best practices when handling animals.
• Promote a supportive and educational environment for volunteers to develop their skills.

Facility Maintenance & Health & Safety Compliance
• Ensure all enclosures, aviaries, and treatment areas are maintained to high welfare standards.
• Report any maintenance or health and safety concerns to senior staff.
• Follow all Hessilhead Health & Safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.

Administrative & Record-Keeping
• Maintain accurate records of animal care, treatments, and progress.
• Assist in data collection for reports and research purposes.
• Follow legal and ethical guidelines related to wildlife rehabilitation.

Public & Stakeholder Engagement
• Educate visitors, donors, and the public about wildlife rehabilitation and conservation efforts.
• Support fundraising and awareness events where required.
• Represent Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Centre positively in interactions with external stakeholders.

Essential Skills & Experience:
• Proven experience in wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, veterinary nursing, or a related field.
• Knowledge of native wildlife species and their rehabilitation needs.
• Team working skills.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a physical role, including lifting, bending, and long periods of outdoor work.

Desirable Skills & Experience:
• Previous experience working with volunteers and providing training.
• Knowledge of biosecurity and infection control measures.
• Understanding of animal welfare regulations and best practices.

Working Conditions:
• Hands-on animal care, including handling injured and stressed wildlife.
• Work may include weekends, evenings, and public holidays.
• Outdoor and indoor work in varying weather conditions.

How to Apply:
• Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their suitability for the role to info@hessilheadwildlife.org.uk.

Job Types: Full-time, Temp to perm
Contract length: 6 months

Pay: From £23,000.00 per year

Benefits:
• On-site parking

Schedule:
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability

Work Location: In person