Volunteering is one of the best ways to gain hands-on experience in wildlife conservation or wild animal welfare, build valuable skills, and expand your professional network. Whether you dream of working in field research, wildlife rehabilitation, or environmental education, volunteer programs provide hands-on experience and networking potential.
It's worth noting that volunteering can create unjust disparities for pursuing careers in this sector. Those who can afford to work for free - which is not an option for most people - get a leg up. Evening out this equity requires systemic change. In the meantime, there are some practical ways you can approach this, such as applying for funding, or looking for volunteer opportunities that you can do flexibly and at minimal cost to yourself (for example, posting on social media for an wildlife charity a few times a week). See our Wildlife Career Accelerator for more tips and resources in this area.
Here’s some ideas of where to start to help kickstart your wildlife career:
[Credit Jordan Pulman]
Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers
Wildlife rehabilitation centers across the globe provide crucial care to injured or orphaned animals. Volunteering at such a facility allows you to work closely with wildlife, gaining experience in animal handling, feeding, and medical care. These roles are ideal for those interested in wildlife veterinary science or animal care. Many local wildlife rehabilitation centers accept volunteers to assist with day-to-day care, cleaning enclosures, and helping with animal releases.
Conservation Organisations and Fieldwork Programs
For those passionate about fieldwork, volunteering with conservation organisations offers the chance to participate in species monitoring, habitat restoration, and ecological research. These programs often involve tasks like tracking wildlife, conducting biodiversity surveys, and planting native vegetation to restore ecosystems. Organisations like Earth Watch Institute or Conservation Volunteers International provide short-term and long-term field opportunities where volunteers can assist scientists with critical research.
National Parks, Wildlife Trusts, and Protected Areas
Many nature reserves, protected areas, and national parks rely on volunteers to help with conservation projects, havitat maintenance, and public education. These positions allow you to experience wildlife in its natural habitat while learning about park management and conservation strategies. Volunteering for wildlife trusts can offer invaluable experience in wildlife monitoring and environmental stewardship.
Marine Conservation Programs
If you’re drawn to marine life, there are numerous volunteering opportunities focused on ocean conservation. These programs involve activities such as coral reef monitoring, sea turtle conservation, or marine mammal research. Projects Abroad or Sea Turtle Conservancy offer opportunities to work with sea turtles during nesting season, where volunteers can help protect nests and collect important data. Closer to home in the UK, why not look into British Marine Divers Marine Life Rescue courses, or Surfers Against Sewage 'million mile beach cleans'.
Environmental Education and Community Outreach
Conservation relies heavily on public engagement, making education-focused volunteer roles essential. These positions involve teaching local communities, organizing workshops, and raising awareness about wildlife issues. Volunteering as an environmental educator with large organisations like the Jane Goodall Institute can offer insight into the intersection of education and conservation, or doing community outreach and fundraising for smaller local charities working on local issues can be equally as valuable experience.
Volunteering in wildlife conservation is more than just gaining experience—it’s about making meaningful contributions to protecting wildlife and habitats. By immersing yourself in real-world conservation work, you can develop essential skills, connect with like-minded professionals, and kickstart a rewarding career in wildlife.
