Veterinary Internship in Wildlife and Conservation Medicine – 2027/2028
The Wildlife Center of Virginia (WCV) is excited to offer two one-year veterinary internships in 2027/2028, providing graduate veterinarians with the opportunity to gain advanced experience in wildlife and conservation medicine, with a focus on the One Health philosophy. One position will be available through the Veterinary Internship Residency Matching Program (VIRMP), while a second position will be offered independently outside of the program. WCV is a renowned non-profit organization located in Waynesboro, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Our 5,700-square-foot facility houses a state-of-the-art veterinary teaching and research hospital and environmental education center. Each year, WCV admits more than 4,600 patients, representing over 200 different species.
Internship Overview
Interns work closely with the Director of Veterinary Services, three licensed veterinary technicians, and three wildlife rehabilitators, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of wildlife medicine. This includes conducting physical examinations, collecting diagnostic samples, performing radiography, anesthesia, surgery, and medical treatments, as well as overseeing necropsies, patient husbandry, and maintaining medical records. Interns handle on-call emergencies, assist with case consultations, and present at clinical rounds. Additionally, they supervise senior veterinary students, volunteers, and a veterinary technician intern. Each intern is encouraged to actively participate in WCV’s professional training programs, present at conferences, and contribute to publications.
Responsibilities and Learning Opportunities
Interns have primary case management and surgical responsibilities, with access to cutting-edge veterinary equipment, a comprehensive veterinary library, and online journal access. Participation in clinical and didactic rounds is required. Interns share on-call duties and work a four-day workweek, including one weekend day.
Candidate Requirements
Ideal candidates will have a strong interest in wildlife medicine, excellent interpersonal and clinical skills, and a high level of professionalism. While previous experience in wildlife medicine is preferred, it is not mandatory. Preference is given to applicants with clinical experience. A Virginia veterinary license is required.
Internship Details
- The VIRMP internship position will follow the AAVC Matching Program schedule, with application deadlines posted on the AAVC website.
- The second veterinary internship is expected to start in April 2027, though the start date is flexible for the right candidate. Applications for this position must be submitted by January 1, 2027 through the Center's website. Selected candidates will be interviewed by February 1, 2027, with final decisions made by February 10, 2027. The internship will run for one year from the start date.
Eligibility Requirements
- DVM from an AVMA-accredited veterinary school (or equivalent)
- ECFVG certification for graduates of non-AVMA-accredited schools
- Eligibility for Virginia state veterinary licensure
- Non-US citizens must obtain a work permit or visa
Compensation and Benefits
- Annual salary: $45,500
- 80 hours of vacation time per year
- 48 hours of personal time per year
- 48 hours of sick time per year
- Continuing education stipend: Up to $1,000 for a relevant conference (travel and registration)
- 50% health insurance coverage through a group plan
- State veterinary license fees covered
- $75 work attire reimbursement annually
- Pension plan, with employer match (up to 4%)
- Additional compensation for on-call duties
Application Requirements
Interested applicants must submit the following by January 1, 2027 through the button at the bottom of the page.
- Curriculum Vitae
- Letter of interest
- Three reference letters
- Official veterinary school transcript (in English)- Please email to Dr. Karra see email below:
For further inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Karra Pierce, DVM, DACVPM
Director of Veterinary Services
The Wildlife Center of Virginia (WCV) is an equal opportunity employer. WCV will not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth or related medical condition), disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, citizenship, or any other class protected by applicable law. We reserve the right to alter, change, modify, and/or terminate this job posting at any time without notice, or obligation, to any party
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