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Animal Care Internship

Internship Description 
Located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is seeking full-time, 6-month Animal Care Interns. The Refuge is a non-profit facility and accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries for exotic big cats, bears, and other exotic animals. Our interns work very closely with our seven animal care staff members, which is often physically demanding. Applicants must be self-motivated, with a high desire to provide the best care available to animals. Applicants must also be observant and able to keep detailed records. The ability to work in a team environment or independently is essential. A Bachelor's Degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field is preferred; applications considered with experience in exotic animal husbandry.

Job Description
Work in an Accredited Animal Sanctuary- responsible for the daily care of tigers, lions, cougars, black bears, brown bears, leopards, servals, bobcats, hybrids, a rhesus macaque, and a coatimundi. Duties include animal husbandry, enrichment, and record-keeping of animal behavior.
Prepare and Maintain Animal Housing- maintaining animal and customer safety through daily exhibit checks. Includes routine landscaping, cleaning habitats of underbrush, and providing animal enrichment.
Prepare Diets and Monitor Feeding- Prepare diets with consideration to specific animal needs, and monitor every animal's food intake. Keep close records of every animal's diet and physical health. Control food quality and hygiene standards of produce and meat.
Monitor and Maintain Animal Health- maintain daily records of animal behavior and health, identifying abnormal behavior and sign of illness. Administer daily medications. Prepare and keep quarantine areas for recent rescues.
Restrain and Assist in Moving Animals- assist animal care staff in relocating animals to more appropriate habitats. Follow all safety procedures in loading, unloading, and during the transport of animals.
Identify Behavioral Needs and Improve Husbandry- provide approved animal enrichment, including environmental and scent enrichment.
Maintain Exhibits and Assist Design- aid in designing and constructing ½-1-acre animal habitats. Maintain exhibits daily and detect/control pets.
Conduct Educational Information to Visitors- responsible for greeting customers and giving guided tours throughout the facility. Educate the public about each resident species and the direction of the facility’s future.
Requirements:
  • At least a Bachelor's Degree in an animal-related field (Zoology, Biology, Animal Psychology, Veterinary Sciences, and other animal-related areas)
  • Two professional references
  • The ability to lift fifty pounds
  • The ability to live on-site for six months
  • Standing for extended periods

Compensation:
 $50 weekly food stipend and on-site housing (utilities, internet, washer & dryer, A/C & heat, and TV provided)
Important Dates:
Deadline for Applications: November 1, 2020
The position lasts for six months with the option to extend.
Duration: February 1- August 27
Location: Eureka Springs, Arkansas
To Apply:
Email your cover letter, resume, and two letters of recommendation (required) to Emily McCormack, Curator, emily@tcwr.org 

COVID19: To keep our animal residents, keepers, and visitors safe, masks are currently required at all times while on property. With the program starting Spring 2021, applicants will be updated accordingly to all necessary precautions for the internship program.