The Raptor Trust Summer Scholars Program - 2026 

Founded in 1983 as a tax-exempt 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, The Raptor Trust is a wild bird rehabilitation center in Morris County, NJ.  Each year from mid-May through August, we receive hundreds of injured, orphaned, or displaced nestling and fledgling songbirds found by citizens. We see this time as a perfect opportunity to provide experience and education to students who wish to learn about wildlife care and rehabilitation. 

Purpose and Essential Functions: Summer scholars are responsible for assisting staff in maintaining standards of care for injured adult birds, preparing diets and feeding orphaned/displaced young songbirds and waterfowl, and helping with general upkeep of the center. Additionally, students will learn from wildlife professionals, learn about a variety of wildlife careers, and understand the impact of human activity on wildlife. 

Position Dates: May through August 2026 

Scheduling: Approximately 24-40 hours per week, including some evenings and weekends 

Location: The Raptor Trust. 1390 White Bridge Road, Millington, NJ 07946 

Payment/Additional Information: This is an unpaid, volunteer position. College students committed to this position may meet the criteria for eligibility to apply for our volunteer scholarship. This opportunity can also be modified to meet most schools’ criteria in qualifying for an academic “internship” or experience credit. 

Opportunities and Learning Objectives: 

• Learn the basics of wildlife rehabilitation 

• Hand-feed nestling and fledgling songbirds 

• Prepare specially formulated diets for a wide variety of bird species 

• Learn how a species’ natural history, including diet, habitat, and social patterns affect its rehabilitation  

• Monitor and take notes on patient health and behavior under the direction of our technicians 

• Observe various diagnostic procedures including phlebotomy, microscopy, and radiography 

• Practice identification of common songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl  

• Learn how to be a wildlife professional across a variety of careers and pathways 

• Greet and interact with the general public and wildlife agencies while assisting with bird admissions, phone calls, and guest inquiries 

• Develop and practice skills in teamwork, communication, time management, critical thinking, and task prioritization 

• Attend workshops led by a variety of professionals currently working in the wildlife field 

• Learn about the interactions between human activity and wildlife populations 

• Become familiar with ethical, moral, and legal considerations regarding avian rehabilitation, rehabilitation of nuisance species, and the use of euthanasia

• Learn the impact of nuisance species on native wildlife 

• Observe the treatment of common human-caused issues, such as rodenticide poisoning, lead poisoning, and window strikes. 

• Educate the public on safe human-wildlife interactions 

The position includes observation of raptors but does not guarantee experience in raptor care or handling. 

Minimum Requirements and Qualifications: 

• Must be at least 18 years of age and currently enrolled in a college degree program and in good academic standing, OR a recent graduate.

• Must have access to a reliable means of transportation and be available for evening, weekend, and holiday scheduling.

• Ability to lift and carry at least 25lbs, spend up to 8 hours mostly on their feet, and tolerate outdoor working conditions. 

• Ability to follow directions, work well as part of a team, and communicate effectively with the staff and general public.

• Enthusiasm for education, conservation, and the mission, goals, and values of The Raptor Trust

• Self-directed, organized, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

  While students in all areas of study are welcome to apply, preference may be given to students who have completed or are currently enrolled in relevant coursework including Ecology, Biology, and Animal Science related studies. 

  Applications are due by February 6th, 2026. 

  To apply, please submit an application, resume, and cover letter through our website at https://theraptortrust.org/summer-scholars-program. A selection of 2-3 references whom we may contact is optional.

  If you have any questions, please contact Amanda Cannizzo at acannizzo@theraptortrust.org

  If you are interested in opportunities involving a smaller time commitment and requiring fewer qualifications,  please consider volunteering. Visit theraptortrust.org or email volunteers@theraptortrust.org