Volunteer Wildlife Hotline and Education Internship (16 weeks)

This role supports TWC’s mission of promoting peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife. Interns are trained to respond to wildlife-related calls from the public, gaining experience in effective communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving while helping community members navigate wildlife concerns and emergencies.

Interns also work closely with the education team, assisting with outreach and education programs. Responsibilities include attending community events, helping present educational programs, and sharing the work of TWC with children, youth, and adults to increase understanding of and respect for wildlife in our community. This role helps interns build public speaking and presentation skills.

Additional responsibilities include assisting with the care of our ambassador animal Hotdog, the snapping turtle. Interns may also have the opportunity to help develop educational materials, as time and program needs allow.

This internship offers hands-on experience for individuals interested in wildlife rehabilitation, environmental education, and fostering positive human–wildlife relationships.

Details

Location: Downsview Park and event locations across the GTA

Internship sessions: May 3rd – August 22nd (Interns must be available May 3rd through May 16th for training).

Commitment:

Four 8-hour shifts per week. Must have flexible schedule and be available evenings, weekends and holidays as needed. Preference will be given to those who can make this commitment and they will be offered additional learning opportunities. Hours can be flexible to accommodate school or work.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 18 years of age
• Current tetanus vaccine (within the last 10 years)
• Access to a reliable personal vehicle and the ability to transport education materials to and from outreach locations across the Greater Toronto Area (Mileage will be reimbursed)
• Preference will be given to those currently enrolled in, planning to enter, or recently graduated from a post-secondary program related to education, environment studies, conservation, wildlife or a related field.
• Strong communicator who enjoys speaking with people, is comfortable having respectful but sometimes difficult conversations, and demonstrates a strong willingness to learn in an ongoing training and mentorship-based position.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to accurately enter and manage information in databases, and to consistently follow organizational messaging, protocols, and advice.
• Must be able to lift and carry materials that may weigh up to 25 lbs.
• Will be required to complete and pass a Vulnerable Sector Check prior to start date

Please note that the internships are unpaid positions. TWC is committed to providing training and hands-on experience for all of our interns so that you will gain skills and knowledge during your internship.

Accountabilities:

• Ensure a positive, professional, and safe working environment at all times; with a focus on both human and animal safety
• Engaging in learning opportunities provided
• Respond to emergency calls on the wildlife hotline, providing accurate advice to callers.
• Engage with children, youth and adults at education events which may include facilitating games/workshops/activity stations, presenting or providing information.
• Develop and maintain educational materials as need arises and as time allows.
• Prepare, restock, clean and organize education materials for events and education sessions.
• Handle, clean and provide care to TWC’s wild ambassador “Hotdog” the snapping turtle, following proper safety and care procedures.

Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively within a team
• Motivated self-starter, with ability to prioritize
• Flexible and adaptable to changing and dynamic work environment
• Strong work ethic and desire to learn
• Excellent communication skills; must be proficient in verbal and written English

To apply: Please submit an online application HERE. You will need to submit a resume, cover letter, and references upon request. Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only those we wish to consider for an interview will be contacted.

DEADLINE: February 1st, 2026