The Outreach Intern [OI] for Big Cat Rescueworks under the direction of the Director of Outreach, the Founder, and the Operations Manager.

The OI must complete approximately 600 hours of service during the 12-week internship. This is equivalent to working approximately 50 hours per week. OIs may be required to work more or fewer hours as needed by the sanctuary.

The objective of the OI is to support the Director of Outreach in promoting legislation, advocating for the welfare of big cats, and educating the public on the issues facing exotic cats, specifically private ownership, and exploitation. Our goal is to end the trade by working with guests, supporters, voters, government agencies, and legislators to pass laws and implement stronger regulations and policies.

The OI will gain invaluable experience in the inner workings of a unique animal welfare nonprofit that not only rescues exotic cats and operates one of the largest accredited sanctuaries of its kind in the world but also educates and actively works to end the trade of big cats through legislation and policy.

The OI must be comfortable speaking to guests and meeting new people. They must also work effectively with staff, volunteers, and fellow interns.

OIs begin in Partner training to learn guest relations and how to guide tours, to better familiarize themselves with the mission of the sanctuary and become familiar with the daily operations of the sanctuary. Much of the initial training consists of the basic knowledge needed to be a valued intern. As the OI advances through the program they will learn specific skills pertaining to BCR’s advocacy, education, legislation activities.

This internship position does not involve keeper duties (i.e. cat feeding, operant training, cleaning, meds administration). Although you will have the benefit of working at the sanctuary, your work will not directly involve any of our cats. This is an “office job” type internship that may require occasional travel.

 

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Possess a valid driver’s license or photo I.D.
  • Must be fluent in English, both written and verbal. Above average writing skills.
  • Internet savvy. Proficient in Microsoft Suite applications Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Familiar with Google applications.
  • Must be comfortable advocating and soliciting support for animal welfare in subject areas that may be controversial or sensitive (e.g. circuses, zoos, ownership of exotic animals, hunting, animals in entertainment, fur, breeding). Must retain a professional and polite manner is potentially stressful or contentious situations.
  • Must have experience with public speaking.
  • Critical thinking skills and the ability to independently problem solve.