Wildlife Care Volunteer

About Mass Audubon

Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at www.massaudubon.org.

About This Position

Trailside Museum has a resident population of exhibit and program animals. All of our animals reside at the museum because they are non-releasable to the wild. Most are injured or imprinted and would not be able to survive on their own. Some of the animals are on display for the public to see and others travel with naturalists to schools, museums, fairs, and retirement centers to help educate the public on the native wildlife of Massachusetts and beyond. Our volunteers are instrumental in the husbandry and enrichment of these animals.  

Duties & Responsibilities

Wildlife Care Volunteers’ responsibilities may include: 

• Cleaning and maintaining bird enclosures
• Care and feeding of rodents
• Care and feeding of turtles and other reptiles
• Feeding of diurnal birds
• General cleaning, such as sweeping floors, wiping counters, laundry
• Assistance in handling of some animals
• Making, distributing, and observing enrichment items for the animals
• Assorted Wildlife Care projects 

Qualifications

At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don't believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

• Minimum age of 16
• Comfortable around wild animals including birds of prey and snakes
• Interest in wildlife and concern for the environment
• Ability to work with others and independently
• Willingness to do sometimes dirty and tedious work
• Dependability
• Must commit for at least 9 months

Additional Information

Availability:

We are looking for a volunteer who can join the Animal Care Team on Wednesday mornings for 2-3 hours.

Other Requirements:

Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

Mass Audubon's Commitment To Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice

Mass Audubon's mission is to "protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife" by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

How To Apply

To inquire about this position please contact: