Volunteer Animal Care Assistant

Looking for a hands-on way to make a difference with wildlife?

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers animal care volunteering, where you’ll help care for our animals, learn about their needs, and be part of a passionate team dedicated to conservation and creating memorable experiences for visitors.

Hours: Minimum 4 hours per week on a rostered schedule
Location: Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Reports to: Volunteer Coordinator

Role Overview:

As a Volunteer Animal Care Assistant, you will contribute directly to the daily care and wellbeing of animals within the reserve. Working alongside the Animal Care Team, you’ll support routine husbandry tasks and habitat maintenance in your designated area.

Each shift builds practical skills and confidence in animal care, while supporting Willowbank’s commitment to animal welfare and conservation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with daily feeding, cleaning, and routine husbandry tasks under staff supervision
• Help maintain safe, clean, and enriching enclosures and food preparation areas
• Observe animal behaviour and report any concerns to the Animal Care Team
• Support the preparation and delivery of enrichment activities to encourage natural behaviours
• Follow all safety and hygiene protocols, including use of required protective equipment
• Work collaboratively with staff and fellow volunteers to ensure a positive, productive environment
• Adhere to Willowbank’s Animal Care Volunteer code of conduct

Requirements:

• Genuine passion for animal welfare and conservation
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to follow instructions carefully
• Comfortable performing physical tasks such as cleaning, lifting, bending, and working outdoors
• Reliable and able to commit to a minimum of 4 hours per week on a rostered schedule
• Positive, proactive attitude and ability to work as part of a team

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in practical animal care
• Insight into daily husbandry and welfare practices
• Opportunity to work alongside experienced animal care staff
• Contribution to the wellbeing of a wide range of species
• Being part of a dedicated team supporting wildlife and conservation

Ready to do the mahi?

Apply Now!