For Veterinary Technician students and Undergraduate Pre-Veterinary students
The Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Health Center at Cornell University provides in-hospital
medical and surgical care to sick or wounded native wild animals. More than 700 birds,
small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians are treated each year by the staff at the Wildlife
Health Center. The primary mission of the center is to provide the highest quality medical
care to these animals with the goal of releasing them back to the wild. We are accepting
applications for veterinary technician students and undergraduate pre-veterinary students
interested in assisting the staff from May through September. Externships may range
from 4 weeks to 10 weeks.
Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) assisting staff with the following tasks:
• Preparing and administering daily patient treatments, cleaning and feeding
• Triage, physical exam and diagnostics of injured wildlife
• Anesthesia, surgery and radiology
• Stocking, cleaning, and maintenance of the center
• Set up and cleanup for hospital procedures
• Complete paperwork for medical and rehabilitation records
• Animal husbandry and enrichment
• Monitoring progress of patients, recording weights and food intake, and
maintaining proper environment
• Assisting with capture and restraint of patients
• Hand-feeding orphaned mammals and birds as needed
• General cleaning including sweeping/mopping floors, washing dishes,
disinfecting counters/sinks
• Lifting and hauling items up to 30 lbs., including trash and recycling
• Assisting with organizational, landscaping, or construction projects, as needed
• Maintaining high energy levels throughout a long workday
• Researching a topic related to wildlife rehabilitation and presenting information to
staff through a written paper and brief oral project upon completion of externship
• Any other projects as directed by needs of the WHC
HOURS: Externs will be scheduled to work five days a week for 4-10 weeks with two
consecutive days off during the week. A typical day consists of working at least 10 to 12
hours [8am to 6pm or 8am to 8pm depending on the time of year]. Weekend work is
required. Schedules are subject to change; though typically remain consistent throughout
the season.
QUALIFICATIONS: Must be a self-motivated individual with a sincere interest in
working with wildlife and the ability to enthusiastically work long hours. Attention to
detail, punctuality, initiative, and a strong desire to learn are required. At least one year of
college with related degree or equivalent prior animal experience. Ability to lift 30lbs..
LENGTH: 4-10 week commitment for a minimum of 200 hours. Positions are offered
from May1 through September 30th.
Deadline for application for externships is April 25th.
TO APPLY: Please email cover letter, résumé, and 2 letters of reference to Pilar
Thompson at [log in to unmask]
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
• Proof of Rabies pre-exposure vaccinations or current titer
• Proof of current health insurance
• Interview with WHC staff. In person recommended however phone interviews are
acceptable if in person is not possible
• Completed necessary volunteer paperwork