Internships
Develop career enhancing skills in the wildlife rehabilitation field.
2025 INTERSHIP SESSIONS HAVE CONCLUDED
Northern Colorado Wildlife Center’s Animal Care Internship is the perfect opportunity for individuals with limited experience who are eager to pursue a career in wildlife rehabilitation or related fields.
As an intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience in animal handling, husbandry, and basic medical care for over 100 wild species. You’ll learn the ins and outs of wildlife rehabilitation. This internship not only offers valuable skill development, but also provides a chance to grow your professional network, connect with like-minded individuals, and strengthen your communication and leadership abilities.
Whether you're exploring a new passion or taking the next step in your career, this program is designed to help you succeed!
General Overview
The mission of Northern Colorado Wildlife Center, a 501(c)3 independent nonprofit, is to protect wildlife and the places they call home through rescue, rehabilitation, education, and advocacy.
Animal Care Interns will get unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience in animal handling, husbandry, and medical care for a diverse range of species, including songbirds, waterfowl, small and medium mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Responsibilities will extend to public communication, nonprofit operations, leadership development, and other key areas that provide valuable experience for career advancement within the animal care fields.
2026 ANIMAL CARE INTERNSHIP INFORMATION
Basic Information
Location: Northern Colorado Wildlife Center, 2637 Midpoint Dr, Suite E, Fort Collins, CO 80525 (map)
Description: Animal Care Interns will assist with daily management of our wildlife rehabilitation facility. Tasks will include:
Providing husbandry care to patients, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring weights.
Assisting with patient admissions, conducting medical assessments, administering medications, and providing wound care.
Handling leadership and communication tasks, including answering phone calls, educating and communicating with the public, providing training, and managing volunteers.
Expected Commitment
25-30 hours/week; combination of 10-hour and 5-hour days. Schedule will be set at the beginning of the internship.
Compensation: This is an unpaid internship. We cannot offer housing accommodations at this time.
Relevant Skills Include
Passion for wildlife conservation and rehabilitation.
Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team setting.
Eagerness to learn and adapt in a unique, dynamic environment.
Interest in leading, mentoring, and motivating others.
Basic knowledge of animal behavior, welfare, and care practices.
Applicant Requirements
No prior schooling or experience is required; however, a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) is recommended.
Applicants must be 18 years or older at the start of the internship.
If selected, interns must pay a $25 orientation fee to cover software, apparel, and supply costs. Financial assistance may be available.
UPCOMING SESSIONS
SPRING 2026
Application Open: January 18th - February 14th
Term: 12 weeks, March 1st - May 23rd
SUMMER 2026
Application Open: March 29th - April 25th
Term: 15 weeks, May 10th - August 22nd
FALL 2026
Application Open: June 28th - July 25th
Term: 12 weeks, August 9th - October 31st