The Best Candidates
Most of the interns chosen have an education in animal sciences, a veterinary or vet tech background, or past wildlife experience. However, we occasionally accept candidates with a strong environmental and community conscience who have demonstrated this through community and/or volunteer work.

An intern can expect to be part of virtually all aspects of the rehabilitation process. Working closely with our staff you will gain hands-on experience of basic rehab. techniques such as handling and restraint , diet preparation, feeding methods, natural history, charting, cleaning and maintenance. Interns may also take part in rescues and releases and may assist with some technical work such as administering meds, x-rays and microscopic exams.

An internship is not a position for anyone looking for an “adventure holiday”. Our staff works long, hard hours and take their jobs seriously. The work is fast-paced and physically demanding, so an intern must be in excellent physical condition. Much of the work is repetitious and dirty, and is anything but glamorous. However, as an intern you will become part of a team of like-minded, dedicated people and will be treated with respect and friendship. Be prepared to give 100% to our beautiful wild patients and you will find your experience to be among the most rewarding you have ever known.

Work Hours
In the peak of summer the hours are long. The work day begins at 7:30 a.m. and continues until well past midnight. A shift can be 10 - 12 hours per day, six days a week, with one day off.

Length of Internship
Internships are staggered two-month terms, commencing May 1 and ending October 31. Occasionally, due to a high volume of animals, an internship can extend until November.

Accommodation
The Centre provides on-site basic shared sleeping cabins (including bedding). Usually two to three interns share a cabin. There are two modern bathrooms with tub and shower, plus a welcoming communal kitchen.

Location of Island Wildlife
IWNCC is located on the largest of the Canadian Gulf Islands, Salt Spring. Located between Vancouver’s mainland and Vancouver Island, Salt Spring is a rural community, an artist’s haven and popular tourist destination. Our village of Ganges has numerous shops, galleries, restaurants, movies, a hospital and most necessary services so you can easily purchase anything you need on the island.

Transportation
Interns are responsible for their own transportation to Salt Spring Island. Our closest cities, Vancouver and Victoria both have airports and the island is well served by ferry service from each city. The Centre is several miles outside the village of Ganges and interns may use a Centre vehicle to go into town for supplies (there is no public transportation on the island). If you are a successful candidate, our staff will work with you to help you make your way to the Centre.

How to Apply
Print out and complete the Application Form. Write us a brief essay regarding your background and motivation for this internship. We receive about 150 applications each year and this helps us to get to know you a little better. Include your CV (resume) and send your completed application to the address on the form. Applications should be received by March 1st. We will respond by the beginning of April. Applications cannot be accepted by e-mail nor dealt with by phone. If you are being considered, we will reach you by phone for an interview.

Please click here to go to the Application Form