Wildlife Assistant

The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA)•Victoria, BC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Wildlife Assistant will participate in all duties and the daily operation of the centre, including the supervision of volunteers in rehabilitation of wildlife, in addition to maintenance of the facilities. By telephone and in person, this position will promote the BC SPCA philosophy and mandate with respect to wildlife and animal welfare. This position will work in a humane, professional, and responsible manner, and encourage by teaching and example, other staff and volunteers to show the same qualities. This position will maintain operations to BC SPCA Wild ARC guidelines in conjunction with IWRC/NWRA minimum standards for wildlife rehabilitation.

Requirements

Minimum 1 year of post-secondary studies in Biological Sciences, Conservation or Environmental Studies, Animal Care, or relevant field
Basic animal care experience with wild mammals and birds
Basic knowledge of natural history, identification, and behaviour of BC wildlife species; familiar with provincial and federal government wildlife regulations and rehabilitation permit requirements
Strong teamwork skills and work ethic
Excellent communication skills including telephone and public speaking
Capable of handling a demanding workload and long hours; work weekends and statutory holidays as required
Ability to work in all types of outdoor conditions
Comfortable working with potentially hazardous conditions, such as contact with parasites, zoonotic diseases, dangerous animals, and chemicals
Requires substantial physical labour (must be able to lift 50 pounds)
Must be vaccinated for tetanus (and rabies preferred)
Must be able to work in emergency situations, such as oil spills, on short notice
Good physical stamina and health
Intermediate level of computer literacy
Access to vehicle use daily (Wild ARC is not on a direct transit route)
Valid Class N or 5 BC Drivers’ License and driver’s abstract
Philosophical harmony with the vision, mission, and strategic directions of the BC SPCA.

Responsibilities

Perform duties as required including answering phone calls, interacting with the public, veterinarians, government, etc. in order to maintain centre operations
Rescue and transport wildlife
Pick up supplies and donations as required
Liaise with other rehabilitation organizations and perform regular research to ensure highest standards of animal care; stay abreast of current wildlife rehabilitation practices
Ensure facility hygiene and adherence to health and safety protocols
Assist with coordination of volunteers
Maintain detailed records including patient-files, care instructions, and patient log book; perform data entry of files and analysis of records
Assist in all daily animal care duties
Attend and participate in team meetings, training, workshops and other projects as required
Work shifts as required and perform other related duties as assigned by Wild ARC Management or Rehabilitation Staff