Pacific Primate Sanctuary (PPS) is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization that provides rehabilitation and permanent care for threatened, endangered, and distressed primates. Since 1984, the Sanctuary has maintained a federally- authorized facility for New World monkeys (Callithrix, Cebus, and Ateles), many of whom have been rescued from research laboratories, the exotic pet trade, and tourist attractions.
The Resident Internship is a one-year immersion program facilitating learning about New World primates and animal sanctuary operations. Training is tailored for each Intern and progress is evaluated at each stage of instruction. The Intern is awarded Primary Animal Caregiver Certification by senior personnel after successfully acquiring a high level of competence in primate care, record keeping, and facility management. This is more than a full-time position and includes on-call duties as needed. The position is on-going, with new openings throughout the year.
Pacific Primate Sanctuary operates with a volunteer staff, funded solely by donations from compassionate individuals and organizations. Our close community is made up of 5-10 local Volunteers (who volunteer one or more shifts each week), 1-2 Resident Interns, 2-3 Administrators, and an off-site support system of veterinary and other professionals.
Qualifications/Experience:
The PPS Resident Internship Selection Committee invites qualified applicants with a background and interest in animal husbandry, welfare and conservation, exotic veterinary medicine, biology, and related fields to apply for this residency. Candidates must have, or be pursuing a degree in biology, zoology, primatology, ecology, etc. or have relevant experience working with animals in a professional setting.
This position requires the following:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and with others
- Physical fitness
- No criminal record
- No communicable disease (must provide a negative tuberculous screening)
- Proof of health insurance
- Must be at least 20 years old.
- Foreign citizens must secure their own visas and permits.
Training Provided
Interns receive in-depth training from experienced team members in all aspects of New World primate care.
Training includes:
- Daily care, enrichment, and nurturing to New World monkeys
- Preparing food, cleaning enclosures, facility maintenance.
- Medical training
- Calculating and administrating medication, checking vital signs, subcutaneous fluids, emergency and intensive care.
- Sanctuary management and volunteer training.
- Record keeping in SOAP format.
- Colony management.
- Behavioral conditioning.
- Updating and revising the PPS manuals and creating new protocols and procedures.
- Reading and reviewing current literature.
Support Provided for Interns:
Interns are provided fully furnished and equipped Yurts with wireless internet service. The Yurts and bathroom accommodations are adjacent to the facility. Utilities, paper goods, and cleaning supplies are provided. Resident Interns and local volunteers maintain an on-site organic garden and orchard, supporting the Sanctuary’s sustainability goals and providing fresh produce for the primates. This position is ideal for someone who would enjoy a rural lifestyle with simple amenities, in a lush subtropical climate.
Interns are responsible for transportation to and from Maui and personal expenses.
Please begin making application for the Internship by submitting the following: your Letter of Intent in making application, your Resume/CV, and three Letters of Reference (from instructors, employers etc.) Your initial application materials can be emailed to: admin@pacificprimate.org
Visit the PPS website to learn more about our organization and for additional details about the Resident Internship Program: https://pacificprimate.org/
