Animal caretaker - Work with rescued wildlife in the jungle

Would you like to work with rescued wildlife in the Bolivian rainforest?

This is your opportunity to use your skills to support animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade! Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi (CIWY) is looking for an Animal Caretaker to join our team as soon as possible.

Introduction

Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi (CIWY) is a Bolivian NGO made up of a team of Bolivian and international professionals and volunteers. Founded in 1992, CIWY pioneered the environmental movement in Bolivia and is nationally and internationally recognized for establishing wildlife rescue sanctuaries dedicated to the rehabilitation and lifelong care of rescued wildlife.

CIWY currently operates two Wildlife Rescue Sanctuaries: Ambue Ari in Santa Cruz and Jacj Cuisi in Rurrenabaque, northern La Paz. Both sanctuaries provide refuge to wild animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, giving them the opportunity to live in a safe environment and enjoy a better quality of life.

Position Description

The Animal Caretaker will work in one or more animal management areas, caring for rescued wildlife under the supervision of the Area Coordinator or Sanctuary Director for a minimum commitment of 6½ months, consisting of 6 months under contract and 2 weeks as a volunteer.

The role requires autonomy and organization to carry out the daily routine, including animal care (food preparation, cleaning and enrichment) as well as any other tasks assigned by the Area Coordinator and Sanctuary Director.

The Animal Caretaker will work as part of a team alongside the Area Coordinator and assigned volunteers, while also demonstrating initiative and taking responsibility for their work. It is essential to follow the instructions of the Area Coordinator and understand the importance of encouraging animals to remain as independent from humans as possible, helping them retain their natural behaviors and instincts.

The main objective is to ensure that the animals receive the best possible care in the most efficient way.

Responsibilities

• Work under the supervision of and follow the instructions of the Area Coordinator and Sanctuary Director at all times.
• Continuously observe the animals and promptly report any changes in their behavior, health or condition to the Area Coordinator.
• Follow the area's daily routines and support the organization and coordination of additional tasks when necessary.
• Understand the animals' dietary requirements, assist with planning and preparing their diets, and observe their feeding, reporting any abnormalities to the Area Coordinator.
• Maintain clear, respectful and effective communication with the Area Coordinator, volunteers and other members of the team.
• Actively participate in animal care, cleaning, enrichment, maintenance, construction and other activities necessary for the proper functioning of the area.
• Support the maintenance and improvement of facilities and infrastructure within the area, as well as the appropriate use and care of tools and materials.
• Ensure that volunteers follow Sanctuary rules and report any violations to the Area Coordinator.
• Keep the work area clean, organized and in good condition, ensuring the appropriate use and care of tools and materials.
• Participate in meetings, training sessions and other activities organized by the Centre when required.
• Know and understand emergency procedures in the event of animal escapes, accidents, animal attacks, fires or other potentially dangerous situations.
• Support the organization and management of general camp activities, contributing to the cleanliness and maintenance of common areas and the smooth running of daily camp life.
• Actively contribute to maintaining an environment of respect, cooperation and good relationships among staff and volunteers.
• Assist with administrative tasks and other activities necessary for the proper functioning of the area and the Centre.

Conditions at the Sanctuaries

CIWY's sanctuaries are located in remote areas of Bolivia, and facilities vary between locations.

Ambue Ari

There is a well that supplies drinking water, while shower water is not heated. The bathrooms are ecological and do not require conventional plumbing. Mobile phone reception is good with Entel.

The sanctuary is approximately 45 minutes from Guarayos, where pharmacies, restaurants, banks, hotels and other services are available.

Accommodation: Shared dormitory rooms with bunk beds. Bedrooms and bathrooms are shared. There is also a communal dining area where breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided, except on days off.

Jacj Cuisi

Filtered water is available. Electricity is limited and is primarily used to power the kitchen and refrigerators/freezers used for storing food for the animals.

Mobile phone reception is limited and only available in certain areas of the sanctuary. Only Entel has reception.

The nearest town is approximately 35 minutes away.

Accommodation: A large shared dormitory with bunk beds, two ecological bathrooms and cold-water showers. A nearby stream is also used for swimming and relaxing. There is a shared kitchen and dining area where breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided, except on Friday evenings and Saturdays, when staff and volunteers go into town for their day off.

You will live alongside a community of Bolivian and international staff and volunteers who work hard every day. Although the work can be physically demanding, helping these animals is an incredibly rewarding experience.

Working Hours

Ambue Ari: 6:30 am – 5:30 pm

Jacj Cuisi: 6:30 am – 5:30 pm

Required Experience and Skills

Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to and passion for helping animals, as well as a willingness to learn about wildlife and animal behavior in order to provide the best possible care and welfare.

Candidates must have, at minimum, an intermediate level of written and spoken English and Spanish, as well as a willingness to continue learning and developing both languages.

Financial Conditions

CIWY does not receive government funding. Our work is supported primarily through volunteer contributions and donations.

CIWY will provide accommodation and meals according to the sanctuary where you are assigned. However, this is an unpaid position and no salary can be offered.

When applying for this position, candidates should take into account additional expenses that will be their own responsibility, including visa procedures and transportation costs to and from the sanctuary.

CIWY will provide the necessary documentation and support required for the visa application process.