Attention College Students!
Founded in 1986, Woodlands Wildlife Refuge is committed to the care and rehabilitation of New Jersey’s native mammals and reptiles. We provide expert care to thousands of injured and orphaned wild animals each year, striving to return them to their natural habitats.
Our internship programs offer invaluable hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation. As an intern, you’ll play a crucial role in helping these animals heal, grow, and ultimately return to the wild, making a lasting impact on their survival.
Internships available for every season
Summer internship applications due by April 24th
Must be 18 years or older to apply.
Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Select applicants will be contacted to proceed with a staff interview.
Application and interview do not guarantee an internship position.
Click Here to download an excerpt from our Volunteer Manual.
Click Here to download our Rabies Vaccination Information sheet.
Internship Position: Animal Caretaker
Responsibilities:
Interns will gain hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation through:
- Feeding and monitoring orphaned mammals and reptiles
- Cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining indoor/outdoor enclosures and treatment areas
- Recording patient progress, including weights, food intake, and health assessments
- Assisting with animal intake, capture, restraint, and medical procedures
- Identifying native species and common wildlife diseases
- Supporting patient rehabilitation, including tracking efforts with NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife
- Preparing food, managing supplies, and assisting with facility upkeep
- Participating in releases and networking with wildlife professionals
- Learning NJ wildlife policies and rehabilitation regulations
- Additional duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn
- At least 18 years old with relevant experience or education
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work long hours with high energy
- Valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation
Internship Details:
- Hours: 25–40 hours/week, including weekends, holidays, and evenings
- Duration: Minimum 12-week commitment
- Compensation: Unpaid; no housing provided
Apply for this position – Animal Caretaker Application
Internship Position: Wildlife Technician
Responsibilities:
Interns will assist in the daily care, treatment, and rehabilitation of wildlife, including:
- Providing animal care, feeding, and maintaining treatment areas (as outlined in the Animal Caretaker position)
- Monitoring and maintaining feeding schedules, medical needs, and release readiness
- Assisting in training new volunteers
- Reporting animal care concerns to the Wildlife Care Supervisor
- Addressing volunteer concerns related to animal care
- Coordinating coverage for incidental time off with management approval
- Additional duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn
- At least 18 years old with relevant experience or education
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work long hours with high energy
- Valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation
Internship Details:
- Hours: 40 hours/week, including weekends, holidays, and evenings
- Duration: Minimum 12-week commitment
- Compensation: Unpaid; no housing provided
Apply for this position – Wildlife Technician Application
Internship Position: Environmental Education
Responsibilities:
Interns will support and enhance Woodlands Wildlife Refuge’s education programs through:
- Evaluating and improving existing programs
- Developing new, specialized programs and hands-on activities for exploratory learning
- Creating brochures, keepsakes, and educational materials
- Designing a marketing plan and scheduling programs for schools, clubs, and community groups
- Implementing and presenting programs to diverse audiences
- Engaging the public at community outreach events
Qualifications:
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and passionate about environmental education
- At least 18 years old with relevant experience or education
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation
Internship Details:
- Hours: 20–25 hours/week, with breaks included
- Duration: Minimum 10-week commitment
- Compensation: Unpaid; no housing provided
Apply for this position – Environmental Education Application
Internship Position: Facility Project
Responsibilities:
Interns will assist with facility improvements and environmental initiatives, including:
- Designing and repairing animal enclosures
- Developing enrichment activities
- Assisting with construction and maintenance projects
- Creating maintenance checklists for enclosures and landscaping
- Planning and maintaining an organic garden for animal food supply
- Evaluating and improving landscape management, including mowing, trimming, and weed control
- Researching and recommending cost-effective, eco-friendly solutions for facility operations
- Assessing facility conditions and identifying efficiency improvements
- Additional facility-related projects as needed
Qualifications:
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and proactive
- At least 18 years old with relevant experience or education
- Strong problem-solving and hands-on skills
- Valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation
Internship Details:
- Hours: 10–20 hours/week, with breaks included
- Duration: Minimum 8–10 week commitment
- Compensation: Unpaid; no housing provided
Apply for this position – Facility Project Application
Internship Position: Technical Assistance
Responsibilities:
Interns will support the technological needs of Woodlands Wildlife Refuge, including:
- Reviewing and recommending improvements for the website
- Assessing and enhancing technical aspects of facility operations
Qualifications:
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and proactive
- At least two years of college with a related degree or prior experience
- Proficiency in WordPress website management
- Valid driver’s license and/or reliable transportation
Internship Details:
- Hours: 15–20 hours/week, with breaks included
- Duration: Minimum 10-week commitment
- Compensation: Unpaid; no housing provided
Apply for this position – Technical Assistance Application