Animal Care Manager

​Job Posting

Salary Range: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 (CDN)

​

The North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) seeks an Animal Care Manager to join our team. Based in Errington on beautiful Vancouver Island, NIWRA is a well-established, non-profit, registered charity focused on the rehabilitation of injured, ill and orphaned wildlife and public education on wildlife and environmental issues.

​

Reporting to the Senior Director of Operations, the Animal Care Manager will lead the animal care team in delivering exceptional care to wildlife patients and permanent residents. This role is essential in supporting our facility's programs, operation, development and integrity.​

​

What We're Looking For

​

We seek a confident, experienced manager and leader who communicates effectively, demonstrates professional maturity, and thrives in a dynamic, purpose-driven environment. While a background in wildlife rehabilitation or conservation is a definite asset, it’s not essential—we’re ready to train the right person who brings a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and a deep commitment to animal care.

​

Key Responsibilities

​

Wildlife Care:

​

• Supervise, support, and mentor the animal care team

• Collaborate with NIWRA’s wildlife veterinarian and the Ministry of Environment

• Oversee wildlife intakes, treatment, and rehabilitation

• Follow established treatment protocols and diet plans

• Lead and grow our Black Bear Rehabilitation Program

• Manage wildlife transport between rehab centres

• Ensure the safety and well-being of both the centre's wildlife and the visiting public

• Oversee ongoing care for both rehabilitation patients and permanent residents

​

Facility & Program Support:

 

• Help maintain the high expectations of the centre's leadership

• Provide daily motivation to staff to follow animal care protocol, safety techniques (animal & public) and time management, following the centre's policy and procedure manuals

• Maintain accurate records, files, and reporting for management and the Board of Directors

• Working with staff, provide multimedia content (stories, videos) for social media and promotional use

• Ensure facility cleanliness and adherence to health and safety protocols

• Recruit, train, and supervise animal care staff, volunteers, and interns

• Oversee the Discover Bear Program and educational bird presentations

​

Who You Are

​

Key Attributes:

​

• Mature judgment, integrity, and professionalism

• Strong interpersonal and team-building skills

• Passionate about wildlife care

• Physically fit and comfortable in hands-on animal care role

• Willingness to be hands-on in learning all aspects of wildlife rehabilitation

​

Education & Experience:

​

• 3+ years of proven and relevant management/supervisory experience

• Proven ability to lead teams and manage challenging or sensitive situations

​

Required Skills:

​

• Highly organized and adaptable to changing priorities

• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication across all organizational levels

• Capable of working independently and under pressure

• Flexible availability, including for emergencies

• Technically proficient with Microsoft Office and digital tools

​

Why Join NIWRA?

​

• Be part of a mission-driven organization making a real impact on wildlife

• Work with a supportive, values-based team in a unique environment

• Enjoy a competitive salary and extended health benefits

• Live and work on beautiful Vancouver Island, surrounded by nature

​

North Island Wildlife Recovery Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.

​