Join the California Wolf Center Team
Get involved in wolf conservation and learn how to become a California Wolf Center Volunteer or Intern.
Volunteer Program
Volunteers make up a vital part of the California Wolf Center team, and we could not fulfill our mission without their time, talent, and support. We have volunteer opportunities at both our conservation facility and our downtown Julian visitor center and nature store.
Already a California Wolf Center volunteer?
About Your Volunteer Experience
Volunteering with us is a unique opportunity to make a real impact on wolf conservation while gaining hands-on experience in a variety of roles. Whether you’re passionate about education, enjoy working outdoors, or want to contribute directly to animal care, there’s a place for you here.
Many volunteers begin by supporting our education programs, helping to lead public tours and shift perceptions about wolves by sharing accurate, science-based information about their role in the ecosystem. With training provided, you'll learn to speak confidently about wolf history, ecology, and conservation while helping to dispel harmful myths like the “Big Bad Wolf.”
For those who prefer a more physical or behind-the-scenes role, our facility projects offer a chance to contribute through trail maintenance, groundskeeping, construction, and equipment upkeep in a beautiful, rural setting.
Volunteers can also serve as Nature Store Assistants at our Visitor Center in Julian, where you’ll engage with the public, manage store inventory, and help spread awareness about our mission through guest interactions.
Those interested in wolf care may qualify for a more advanced track involving feeding, enclosure cleaning, behavioral observation, and assisting with veterinary needs. These coveted roles require commitment and specialized training, but are deeply rewarding for those seeking close involvement in animal husbandry.
No matter the role, our volunteers are essential to our mission of education, advocacy, and wildlife preservation.
Internship Program
If you’re pursuing a career in wildlife conservation, biology, or other life science fields, consider becoming a California Wolf Center intern!
California Wolf Center Wolf Care, Maintenance, and Education Internship Program
The internship program at the California Wolf Center provides engaging learning experiences designed to inspire an ethic of stewardship in the next generation, stimulate interest in conservation as a viable career option, and to increase the diversity of professionals working in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Wolf Care, Maintenance, and Education interns work closely with staff to care for our 24 resident wolves, prepare diets, learn habitat husbandry and facility maintenance, as well as engage the public on the importance of wolves, wolf conservation and how we at CWC promote communities coming together. An enthusiasm for wildlife conservation work is required!
While an internship at California Wolf Center is unpaid, there is no fee to participate and you will be gaining valuable skills and experience in your related field of interest applicable for college credit. All interns work hand-in-hand with California Wolf Center staff to gain knowledge and learn applicable skill sets in their chosen internship.
By participating in this program, you will incur costs for travel, accommodations (if coming from out of the area), and transportation during the course of your internship. You are responsible for covering all of those costs.
For more information or additional questions please email Joseph Breshears, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator.
Open for applications!
Requirements and Qualifications
- At least 18 years of age
- Available 3 days per week, for 3 consecutive months.
- Interns are required to work at least TWO of the following days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- Pursuing or completed degree in related field (biology, animal behavior, or wildlife biology, zoology etc.)
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Able to work in extreme conditions including rain, snow, and heat
- Must be in good physical condition and able to lift and carry a minimum of 40 pounds
- Must provide your own transportation and housing
- A valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and clean driving record
- Because the commute to our Conservation Facility includes ¾ of a mile of rugged dirt road, you must be willing to drive in and out on this dirt road regardless of weather conditions
How to Apply
Apply to the internship program by emailing Joseph Breshears, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator. Please include the following:
- A one to two page resume with cover letter
- One letter of recommendation
- Please specify your ideal start and end dates, and which internship type you would prefer in your cover letter
Application Deadlines
Applications are accepted year-round and start dates are flexible. Please see application deadlines below.
Summer: May 15
Fall, Winter, Spring: No deadline