We are currently accepting internship applications!
Interns selected on a rolling basis
Minimum 6-month commitment
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Apply Today!
To apply, complete the Internship Application and send to careers@keepthemflying.org
Please include your resume and cover letter

Avian Care Internship
Interns are invaluable to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. We are happy to provide 6-month, paid internships to individuals who are interested and passionate about wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. The unique ecosystem of the Florida Keys creates a great opportunity for interns to gain knowledge and experience working with a wide variety of avian species. From seabirds and shorebirds to raptors and songbirds, interns can expect to work hands-on alongside our certified wildlife rehabilitators at Mission Wild Bird and independently at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary.
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Our Avian Care internship consists of 5-day, 40-hour (sometimes more) work weeks. The schedule is split up so that individuals will be working 2-3 days a week at our Wild Bird Hospital and 2-3 days a week at our Sanctuary. We provide a $200 bi-weekly stipend and shared intern housing located on-site at our Sanctuary.
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Hospital Duties include:
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Daily cleaning and feeding of Hospital patients
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Maintaining hospital cleanliness i.e. sweeping, mopping, laundry
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Administering medication and fluids therapy
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Helping staff with wound care, blood work, fecals, xrays etc
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Participating in bird rescues, intakes and releases
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Answering bird emergency calls at least two nights a week
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Keeping detailed and updated reports on sick and injured patients
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Partaking in after-hour bird emergencies
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Sanctuary Duties include:
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Daily husbandry of permanent sanctuary residents i.e. feeding, cleaning, checking enclosures, replacing/cleaning perches
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Picking up donated fish from local marine centers and sifting fish for quality
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Helping with regular clean up of facility such as pressure-washing the boardwalk, replacing mulch, and trimming branches
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Feeding and cleaning of rehabilitation patients in medical cages and flight cages; including occasional weighing of patients, assessing condition, and noting diet changes
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Researching, organizing, and providing enrichment for residents
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Helping with any educational events such as occasional sanctuary tours and regular interactions with visitors
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Qualifications:​
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At least 21 years old
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6 month commitment
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Willing to work 40 hours a week, weekends and holidays with occasional evenings
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Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work in hot humid and rainy weather conditions
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Able to multitask and handle physical and mentally stressful tasks
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Ability to interact with the public proficiently
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Have a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and ability to handle multiple personalities.
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Valid U.S. Driver's License and clean driving record
*Start dates are flexible*
How to Apply
To apply, complete the Internship Application and send to careers@keepthemflying.org
Please include your resume and cover letter.