Wildlife Rehabilitator / Veterinary Nurse

About the role

This is a rare opportunity for an exciting role working hands on with New Zealand native and endemic avian wildlife, like kererū, kākā, tūī, kōtare, ruru, kororā and many other seabirds . You'll follow each bird from rescue through to release, which gives you real continuity of care and the chance to see your patients recover. Mornings and end of day are focused on critical care. In between, with such a small team, your work will be varied: from emergency stabilisation through to husbandry, habitat care and working with volunteers. This is a diverse, multi-faceted full-time permanent role, with responsibilities and hours that change seasonally with the needs of patients and the Trust.

Key responsibilities

Care for birds from admission to release, including triage, clinical assessment, critical care, and medications and treatments as directed by veterinary staff

Assist veterinary staff with microscopy, parasitology, anaesthesia, physiotherapy, x-rays and bloodwork

Manage daily care and cleaning in species-specific habitats, plus habitat maintenance and creation

Work in strict accordance with biosecurity protocols and PPE requirements, including those for avian influenza (H5N1)

Coordinate and train volunteers and ensure Health and Safety requirements are followed

Keep accurate medical and photographic records

Help provision medical and nutritional needs for over 35 species

Assist with administration (including SOPs) and fundraising

Comply with DOC permit requirements, WReNNZ minimum standards and MPI animal welfare laws

About you

Preferred: a veterinary nursing qualification (or equivalent clinical nursing experience), with knowledge of avian wildlife and avian physiology

Relevant experience in wildlife care, conservation, zoo or animal husbandry, or similar

Experience with birds, wildlife rehabilitation or hand-rearing is a strong advantage, but not essential

Adaptable and persistent, with the resilience to keep going during the busy times and

Warm, confident communicator who builds great relationships with rescuers, donors, volunteers and the public

Self-motivated, creative problem solver and happy to work alone, with good judgement when no one else is on site

Excellent observation skills, attention to detail and clinical hygiene, including a commitment to strict biosecurity

Able to work indoors, outdoors and in the field in all weather.

Valid driver's licence and first aid certificate

* Full NZ work rights and able to live on Waiheke Island

About us

We're a 5-star wildlife rehabilitation facility focused on conservation, with an on-site clinical area including anaesthesia and digital x-ray. We specialise in the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick, injured and orphaned, fully protected native and endemic birds, including a special project with kororā / little penguins from across the Auckland and Hauraki Gulf region. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, release, and provide advocacy, education and research on behalf of our taonga species.