Northern Lights Wildlife Society of # 17366 Telkwa High Rd, Smithers, BC V0J 2N7
requires a full-time, permanent Animal Care Technologist
Salary range $23.00 to $24.00 p/h.
Must be fluid in writing, reading and speaking English.
The successful applicant will be required to
- Provide nursing care and rehabilitation therapy for animals, particularly small and large mammals. We work a lot with black bears. Duties include admission, rescue, triage, examination, treatment, euthanasia, diet planning, food preparation, feeding and release
- Handle, restrain and care for animals undergoing treatment and surgery
- Collect and send away for analysis samples to assist in the diagnosis of animal health problems
- Assist in sedation and basic health checks of wildlife
- Assist animal treatment provider with animals before, during and following surgery by preparing surgical equipment and cleaning up after surgery
- Prepare medications and vaccines under the direction of a veterinarian
- Administer treatments as prescribed by a veterinarian
- Provide wound and bandage care
- Conduct specialized procedures such as animal identification
- Educate and advise our volunteers on animal health care, including nutrition and rehabilitation
- Educate the general public on coexistence with bears and other wildlife
- Maintain detailed records, including patient files, care instructions, and patient logbook; perform data entry of files and analysis of records
- Capture and transport of BC wildlife
- Provide species-specific enrichment for BC mammals, especially bears & ungulates
- Assist in collecting data for various research projects
- Keep detailed care records
- Assist in necropsies and sample collection
- Liaise with other rehabilitation organizations and perform regular research to ensure the highest standards of animal care; stay abreast of current wildlife rehabilitation practices
Applicants should have
- Minimum of 1 year experience in rescue and rehabilitation of large mammals and Minimum of 6 months experience in rescue and rehabilitation of bears
- a college diploma in animal health care or related discipline.
- Valid driver's license
- 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
- Requires substantial physical labour (must be able to lift 50 pounds)
- Must be vaccinated for tetanus (and rabies preferred)
- Good physical stamina and health
- Comfortable working with potentially hazardous conditions, such as contact with parasites, zoonotic diseases, dangerous animals, and chemicals
- Excellent project management and time management skills, and the ability to work well under pressure
- Must be able to work in emergency situations, such as rescues, on short notice
- Good driving record with no new driver restrictions
- Access to vehicle use daily (NLWS is not on a direct transit route)
We are often called after hours for emergency rescues, so employment flexibility is essential, and a strong passion for what we do is critical.
Please email your resume, references and academic credentials to info@wildlifeshelter.com