Apply to the Summer 2026 Internship at DBRC!

Delaware Bat Rehabilitation and Conservation (DBRC) is pleased to announce an internship program for Summer 2026! Interns will be trained by our rehabilitation professional specializing in the care and rehabilitation of native bat species of various life stages.

Bats are vital to our environment. They help control insect populations by eating pests, which benefits agriculture and reduces the need for pesticides in Delaware. Located in Smyrna, Delaware, DRBC is a 501c3 that cares for injured and orphaned bats and returns them to the wild. We also provide education and outreach to promote bat conservation, advocate for the preservation of bats’ natural habitats, and educate about how to coexist with bats.

This internship provides an in-depth, hands-on experience in native bat rehabilitation. The length of the internship coincides with the intensive bat orphan season during which interns will assist with monitoring health and development while providing regular feeding and care for other adult patients. Interns will learn about bat husbandry, nutrition, hand-feeding techniques, capture and restraint methods, wildlife laws, and release criteria. Interns will be trained and supervised by Kesha Braunskill, state licensed wildlife rehabilitator with 8 years of experience with bat rehabilitation.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

• Feed/water animals while performing head counts
• Identify bats with both common and scientific names and learn species husbandry 
• Understand and articulate bat anatomy
• Maintain intake logs and information boards
• Data entry into database for patients 
• General cleaning of enclosures and facilities
• Monitor progress/maintain awareness of patients' health/behavior, record weights/ food consumption, and maintain appropriate husbandry and housing  
• Assist with capture, restraint, and transportation of patients  
• Report maintenance and/or safety hazards to facility supervisor

SCHEDULE AND HOURS:

The 10-week requirement is from early/mid-June to mid-August, with some date flexibility. 

Full day + evening shifts are required and will vary depending on facility needs. Approximately 40 hours/week are expected, though shifts and schedules coincide with animal care needs.

SALARY

DRBC provides a stipend of $400 per week for 10 weeks.

REQUIREMENTS

• At least 18 years old
• Must have own transportation
• Pre-exposure rabies vaccination series (must have an up-to-date rabies titer)
• Current tetanus vaccination
• Preference is given to candidates with local housing options, but limited housing may be available

QUALIFICATIONS

• Self-motivated with an interest in working with wildlife and specifically in conservation
• Able to enthusiastically work long hours
• Attention to detail, punctuality, initiative, and a strong desire to learn
• Background in animal care and husbandry (preferred)
• Coursework or experience with wildlife/ exotics/rescue (preferred)

TO APPLY : Email a cover letter, resume, letter(s) of recommendation, and proof of rabies vaccination or current titer (or proof of upcoming appointment) to debatrescue@gmail.com. The application deadline is April 8, 2026. Please email us with any questions. Thank you!