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Assistant Director of Animal Care

WildCare

San Rafael, California

Job Type Permanent
Salary Details 71,000 - 73,000
Deadline Mar 15, 2025
Experience 7+ years

ORGANIZATION UPDATE

WildCare is currently in a very exciting phase of our 50+ year history! We are embarking on a $24M construction project (of which we have already raised over 75% of our goal!) that includes the demolition of existing structures, the restoration of our historic museum, and the construction of a new three-story wildlife hospital along with state-of-the-art patient aviaries and cages. During this transformative period, we are operating out of  a temporary location. Our grand re-opening of the newly renovated hospital is slated for 2027. 

POSITION SUMMARY

As the Assistant Director of Animal Care at WildCare, you will oversee and actively participate in all  aspects of running the Wildlife Hospital, including hands-on  animal care, medical protocol development, and managerial duties.This is not a seated desk position. The ideal candidate is a leader with excellent operational, logistical, and planning skills; capable of motivating and guiding a team through transitions. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Overseeing Clinic and Songbird Hospital Managers and supporting the Volunteer Manager.
  • Providing hands-on care for wildlife patients.
  • Ensuring smooth operation of shifts and preparation for subsequent operations.
  • Collaborating on diagnoses and treatment plans, adjusting as necessary.
  • Orchestrating staff, intern, and volunteer activities and training.
  • Assisting with annual hospital staffing and budgeting.
  • Ensuring availability of necessary patient care supplies.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

  • The Ideal candidate will have a minimum of 8 years in wildlife rehabilitation, with at least 4 years in a supervisory role, but fewer years in these capacities will be considered.
  • Handling and care for a wide variety of  North American, urban wildlife species.
  • Diagnostics, drug dosing, and emergency care and ideally anesthesia monitoring.
  • Credentials: Valid California driver’s license, ability to manage controlled substances, and a clean criminal background.
  • Certification as a Wildlife Rehabilitator, Veterinary Technician, or a degree in a related field preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to lift/move 50 pounds and endure long, demanding workdays.

REQUIRED SKILLS & CHARACTERISTICS

  • Positive attitude, ability to multitask, and strong organizational skills.
  • Excels under pressure with strong conflict resolution abilities.

LEGAL ELIGIBILITY AND WORK LOCATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Candidates must be currently residing in the United States and demonstrate eligibility to work in the US as per federal and California law.

SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS

  • Regular work schedule: Tuesday through Saturday, with flexibility required during peak seasons.
  • Willingness to work various shifts, including early mornings, late evenings, and some holidays, as needed.
  • Participate in a rotational after-hours emergency support schedule.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

  • Salary: $71,000-$73,000 based on experience 
  • Full-time, exempt position with comprehensive benefits including 100% covered health insurance, supplemental dental and vision insurance, a 3% matching 401k plan, generous vacation and sick leave, and 15 paid holidays.
  • Professional development opportunities and continuous training.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

WildCare is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

HOW TO APPLY

TO APPLY

Email resume and cover letter, including 2 professional references to Melanie Piazza, Director of Animal Care at melanie@discoverwildcare.org

When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.

Category Admin & Leadership, Wildlife