JOB POSTING:
Title: Wildlife Rehabilitation Assistant
Type: Full-time, temporary (May-September)
Number of positions available: 3
Compensation: $15/hour
Closing: Open until filled
MARS Wildlife Rescue Centre is a busy wildlife rehabilitation and education facility located in Merville on
Vancouver Island, BC. Since moving to our new location in 2017, MARS has treated over 2400 animals,
including raptors, songbirds, raccoons, and fawns.
Our mission statement is: to conserve and protect wildlife and its natural habitat through wildlife
rehabilitation and education.
The Wildlife Rehabilitation 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
Under the leadership and supervision of the Manager and Assistant Manager of Wildlife Rehabilitation,
the Wildlife Rehabilitation Assistant will:
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 education 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 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, sciences;
Previous animal care experience;
The ability to handle a physically and often emotionally demanding workload;
Good written and verbal communication skills;
Proof of current tetanus vaccination required before work begins;
Transportation to and from work – valid driver’s license preferred;
Availability evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Application Instructions
To apply for this position, please email your resume and cover letter to info@marswildliferescue.com.
Documents should be attached in PDF form, with your name and “Wildlife Rehabilitation 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