Whooping Crane Chick Rearing and Release Apprentice

Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and eager to play a vital part of our renowned conservation effort to save the world’s cranes and their habitats? The International Crane Foundation (ICF) is seeking motivated and passionate individuals for multiple openings in our Whooping Crane Chick Rearing and Release Apprenticeship at our International Headquarters in Baraboo, WI. In this role, you will gain an understanding of captive breeding and participate in the rearing of Whooping cranes for release in two reintroduction programs. Apprentices will gain valuable experience in the management of these birds in both zoological and release settings. 

The position will start between March 24 – April 15, 2025, and run for 6-8 months, with some flexibility in start and end dates. It includes a stipend of $1,500/month plus housing. Would you like to be surrounded by people who are passionate about our mission, dedicated to the organization, and engaged with their fellow staff and associates? Then read on. 

About the Role 

As an apprentice, you will be directly involved in the intensive care and management of endangered Whooping Crane chicks, working alongside experienced professionals. You will develop essential skills in crane husbandry, learning how to care for the flock through daily cleaning and feeding. Additionally, you will learn about captive propagation, including artificial insemination and egg incubation. As part of the chick-rearing process, you will take on the important responsibility of exhibiting proper costume parental behaviors to help the chicks develop survival skills. You will help set up and maintain crane facilities both on campus and in the field, while also learning to follow strict isolation rearing protocols that ensure the chicks are prepared for life in the wild. 

Safety is paramount, and you will learn and practice safe handling and restraint techniques. Throughout your apprenticeship, you will also conduct behavioral observations and learn to use the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS) for record-keeping and staff communication. Additionally, you will be part of a field team, gaining hands-on experience in tracking free-roaming cranes and contributing to ecosystem restoration and conservation efforts in Wisconsin. 

This dynamic role requires flexibility, as the responsibilities may change depending on the timing of hatching. Some duties may involve non-traditional hours, including early mornings, evenings, and night checks. A typical work week is 5 days (40-50 hours) with 2 consecutive days off, but not both Saturday and Sunday. Apprentices are required to work some holidays. Visit our website at https://savingcranes.org/about/careers/intern-opportunities/ for a full job description. 

Qualifications 

The ideal candidate will have at least two years of college or equivalent experience, with a preference for degrees or experience in wildlife biology, avian biology, or zoo-keeping. A background in animal care with a focus on birds is highly valued. Applicants should be able to work independently and in teams and have strong communication skills, including speaking to large groups. This is a physically demanding position that requires stamina for long hours and the ability to work in varying weather conditions, on uneven terrain, and in a costume for chick rearing. A valid driver’s license, the ability to work in the U.S., and a commitment to the full term of the apprenticeship are essential. 

How to Apply: Apply in minutes by sending a single document containing a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least three references to icfinternships@savingcranes.org with the subject: “WCCRR Apprenticeship.” The deadline to apply is February 16, 2025.  

In your email please indicate you saw this position on the Warnell job site. 

Join us in protecting cranes and the ecosystems they inhabit—together, we can make a difference! 

“ICF is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion. We hire great people.” 

ICF is an equal opportunity employer.