Volunteering and Membership
Join the team with heart and knowledge for the wild.
At Golden Eye Wildlife Institute, we are committed to building a professional, cohesive, and trustworthy environment in which individuals work together in the service of protecting wild animals. Our mission is grounded in ethical conduct, mutual respect, and a deep understanding of the biological, veterinary, and conservation challenges we face in the field.
We therefore involve only those collaborators who understand that helping protected species is more than just goodwill – it is a responsible and skilled task that demands a willingness to learn, adherence to protocols, and a clear appreciation of the conservation context. On this path, we are not merely looking for help; we are building partnerships founded on knowledge, reliability, and a shared vision.
The section Volunteering and Membership is intended for those who wish to become an active part of our professional environment, whether by providing logistical, educational, or field support, or by directly assisting in wildlife interventions and care. Given the nature of the work, which includes handling endangered and protected species, we have clearly defined the types of collaboration according to the level of experience, training, and responsibility involved.
Below, we outline the available options, the criteria for participation, and the types of tasks that individuals may take on, depending on their competencies and readiness to contribute.
Golden Eye Volunteer
Volunteers represent an essential part of the support system behind the activities of Golden Eye Wildlife Institute.
While they do not assume independent responsibility for the care of animals, their presence, willingness to learn, and reliability contribute significantly to the effective functioning of our work.
Becoming part of our volunteer network offers opportunities to engage in a wide range of tasks – from communication, organizational, and logistical support to assistance with educational materials, outreach content, and, following proper onboarding and veterinary guidance, selected forms of hands-on help in the field. As our work involves protected wild species, all volunteer activities are carried out strictly within predefined roles and under the protocols established by our veterinary professionals.
Examples of volunteer task include:
– assisting with the transport of animals (accompanied or following specific instructions),
– preparing and organizing facilities prior to the arrival of animals,
– supporting events, workshops, and public outreach activities,
– writing and designing content for websites and social media,
– preparing brochures, educational materials, and awareness content,
– archiving data and assisting with administrative tasks,
– contributing to campaign development and donor communication materials.
Volunteers receive introductory training, ongoing support from our team, and may be given opportunities for further involvement and professional development if they demonstrate the necessary skills and motivation.
Support with the Transport of Protected Wildlife
Volunteers often assist with the transport of injured or weakened wild animals from the finder to a veterinary clinic, wildlife shelter, or another authorized facility.
This task is extremely important, as the speed and safety of transport can often determine the animal’s chances of survival. All transport is carried out under veterinary guidance and in coordination with the field team.
What you need:
– a valid category B driver’s license,
– access to your own vehicle (as agreed and depending on the region),
– the ability to remain calm in unpredictable situations,
– readiness to respond quickly when needed,
– strict adherence to all veterinary and safety instructions.
Visual Storytelling: Rescues and Releases
The stories of rescued animals – their path to recovery and return to the wild – are a vital part of our communication with the public.
Volunteers skilled in photography or videography help document these moments for our archive, social media, reports, and donor campaigns. A carefully captured image can inspire change – and even help secure the future of an entire species.
What you need:
– your own basic photography or video equipment (phone or camera),
– basic knowledge of editing tools (optional),
– spatial awareness and a respectful approach to animals,
– reliability in following the team’s instructions,
– understanding of the importance of visual discretion when working with stressed or injured animals.
Digital Content Creation for Conservation Awareness
Modern nature conservation is also a battle for attention.
If you enjoy writing, designing, or creating content for digital platforms, you can help shape our public communication – from social media posts and donor stories to translated materials and educational content for schools and the wider community.
Your words can reach thousands – and shift perspectives.
What you need:
– strong writing skills (in Slovenian or other languages),
– basic familiarity with social media platforms,
– a clear and sensitive communication style,
– willingness to coordinate with the expert team (tone, content, objectives),
– motivation to create content rooted in truth and knowledge.
Golden Eye Member
Working with protected wild animals goes far beyond volunteering. It involves assuming responsibility, understanding legal frameworks, following strict professional protocols, and often making rapid decisions in field conditions. This is why Golden Eye Wildlife Institute has developed a structured membership system, intended for individuals who wish to actively contribute to our mission at a higher, more accountable level.
Membership is designed for experienced individuals who are capable of taking on defined tasks – whether in field operations, coordination roles, or providing professional or technical support. Members become part of the institute’s internal operational structure, involved in planning, execution, and oversight of activities, and they are given access to internal protocols, tools, and training resources.
Who Can Become a Member?
Membership is intended for those who:
– have proven experience in working with animals or in conservation-related fields,
– understand the importance of ethical and lawful treatment of protected species,
– are prepared to actively participate – not only offer symbolic support,
– want to contribute to the long-term development and professionalism of our organization.
Membership begins with a formal application that includes a CV, followed by an introductory interview and approval by the institute’s leadership.
Membership Categories
Based on experience and availability, members are divided into three main categories:
1. Field Member
Field members form the operational core of Golden Eye Wildlife Institute. These are trusted individuals with the necessary experience and training to carry out direct interventions, collaborate with government authorities, and assist in the rescue and transport of protected wildlife.
Their role is vital in situations that require fast and skilled response – whether taking over an injured animal, performing basic stabilization, coordinating with volunteers on-site, or carrying out supervised releases after rehabilitation.
Key responsibilities include:
– retrieving and handling injured, ill, or distressed wild animals,
– assessing vital signs, injuries, and levels of urgency (according to protocol),
– collaborating with government agencies (emergency services, police, inspection services, forestry services, hunting associations),
– transporting animals to appropriate veterinary clinics or shelters,
– providing basic first aid (within one’s training level),
– documenting cases (photos, reports, GPS coordinates),
– participating in animal release operations and habitat assessment,
– conducting field monitoring (e.g., population surveys, GPS tracking),
– mentoring new team members and volunteers in the field.
What you need for this role:
Required experience and knowledge:
– basic understanding of veterinary or conservation practice (e.g. vet technician, biologist, trained wildlife rehabilitator),
– understanding of stress response in wild animals and basic handling techniques,
– familiarity with basic wildlife first aid protocols (internal training is provided),
– ability to make decisions in field conditions and respect for personal limits.
Personal qualities:
– high level of reliability and responsibility,
– readiness for rapid response, sometimes outside regular hours,
– ability to remain composed in stressful situations and among non-professionals,
– strong ethical standards in dealing with animals, nature, and colleagues.
Participation and operation:
New field members complete an introductory interview, sign the ethical code of conduct, and receive internal instructions and protocols. Each member is assigned to a regional field team and works closely with local volunteers and coordinators.
2. Coordination Member
(Administrative / Communication / Organizational Role)
Coordination members provide operational support across the institute’s systems – managing case files, communicating with authorities, coordinating volunteers, organizing activities, and preparing logistics for fieldwork.
They are not necessarily active in the field but ensure that all processes run smoothly, transparently, and on time. This role is ideal for individuals with strong organizational skills who understand the importance of system-level management and multi-stakeholder coordination.
Key responsibilities include:
– managing wildlife rescue cases (from intake to completion), documentation, and archiving,
– assigning tasks and supporting availability tracking of volunteers in the field,
– organizing internal events, trainings, and workshops,
– drafting communication protocols for large-scale interventions,
– assisting with forms, reports, and statistical submissions to authorities,
– acting as a contact person for specific regions or thematic areas (e.g. birds, mammals, juveniles),
– supporting project applications (LIFE, Interreg, national grants),
– preparing logistics for releases and liaising with municipalities or media outlets.
What you need for this role:
Required experience and knowledge:
– experience in work organization, team coordination, or data management,
– basic understanding of wildlife issues (additional training is provided),
– ability to use common office tools (Excel, Word, email, databases),
– knowledge of administrative or project procedures (preferred, but not required).
Personal qualities:
– high level of precision, reliability, and structured thinking,
– ability to react quickly and work under pressure,
– excellent written and verbal communication skills,
– respectful but assertive in coordinating multiple stakeholders.
Technical requirements:
– access to a personal computer and internet (remote work),
– willingness to attend in-person meetings at the clinic or shelter as needed (e.g. planning, large operations).
Participation and operation:
Coordination members are integrated into the institute’s internal structure and work closely with leadership, field teams, and the expert advisory board. They are granted access to confidential records and operational platforms (e.g. digital case tracking systems) and may be assigned oversight of specific regions or thematic domains if they demonstrate appropriate competence.
3. Specialist Support Member
(Veterinarians, biologists, conservationists, legal experts, communicators, designers, etc.)
Specialist support members are individuals who contribute their professional expertise in key areas such as protocol development, legal interpretation, communications, education, and strategic planning. Although they may not be directly involved in fieldwork, they form the intellectual and professional backbone of our organization.
These members are often involved in national reports, legal statements, scientific publications, campaign design, and expert evaluations – ensuring that the work of the Institute aligns with both legal standards and scientific knowledge.
Key responsibilities include:
– preparing and updating protocols and internal guidelines,
– providing legal or regulatory insight and expert opinions,
– drafting or reviewing public statements, official responses, and policy proposals,
– contributing to project applications (LIFE, Interreg, national calls),
– delivering educational lectures and workshops,
– developing educational materials, campaigns, and visual content,
– supporting complex wildlife cases (e.g. disease outbreaks, invasive species),
– participating in data analysis, monitoring reports, and research initiatives,
– contributing to scientific papers, evaluations, and external reviews.
What you need for this role:
Required qualifications:
– a degree or significant practical experience in a relevant field (veterinary science, biology, ecology, law, design, project management, etc.),
– deep understanding of issues related to wild animal protection in Slovenia,
– knowledge of relevant national and EU legislation (for legal/project profiles).
Personal qualities:
– high level of professionalism and scientific integrity,
– openness to working with cross-disciplinary teams,
– ability to think systemically and work independently,
– strong sense of ethics in public, legal, and animal welfare matters.
Technical conditions:
– this role is primarily remote and flexible in schedule,
– occasional participation in strategic meetings or events is expected,
– use of digital collaboration tools (Google Workspace, video conferencing, shared documents).
Participation and Responsibilities
Specialist members act as internal or external expert advisors to the Golden Eye Wildlife Institute. Membership is reviewed annually and based on active contribution to the strategic and scientific objectives of the organization. In some cases, specialist members may be appointed as official signatories of expert opinions, requiring the highest level of professional credibility.
Benefits and Opportunities for Members
Being a member of the Golden Eye Wildlife Institute is not only a chance to contribute to the protection of wild animals – it is also a personal and professional experience that enriches you and opens new opportunities.
What you gain as a member
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Practical experience – involvement in real wildlife rescue and rehabilitation cases, project management, public outreach, and collaboration with various institutions.
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References and recommendations – official confirmation of your participation, which can support your job applications or further studies.
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Training and workshops – access to internal trainings, professional seminars, and resources prepared by experienced veterinarians, biologists, and conservationists.
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Access to professional materials – internal documentation, protocols, and manuals for wildlife handling and project management.
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Participation in national and international projects – involvement in prestigious programmes such as LIFE, Interreg, and others shaping the future of nature conservation.
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Certificates of participation – for students and graduates, the opportunity to obtain official certificates confirming your knowledge, skills, and active contribution.
Why is this important?
Because membership in our community combines personal passion with real impact on nature.
Every skill you gain, every piece of knowledge you learn, and every project you help deliver brings you one step closer to the kind of expertise that truly makes a difference.
Application
Please complete the form to apply for a volunteer position or membership with the Golden Eye Wildlife Institute. After submitting the form, we will contact you as soon as possible to provide further information and guide you through the next steps.
Together, We Make the Wild Possible
Whether you contribute as a volunteer helping with transport, outreach, or logistics, or as a member supporting field operations, coordination, or professional work behind the scenes – your involvement matters deeply.
At Golden Eye Wildlife Institute, we don’t just welcome help. We build a community of people who care – people who understand that protecting wild animals is not a hobby, but a responsibility that demands knowledge, structure, ethics, and heart.
Every role, from preparing educational content to rescuing an injured bird, is part of the same mission: giving wild animals a real chance to recover, return, and thrive.
This is more than participation. It is shared stewardship. A commitment to act thoughtfully, respond skillfully, and stand for those who cannot speak for themselves.
We invite you to apply, to grow, and to become part of a professional and compassionate network – one that believes in clarity over chaos, action over apathy, and science with a soul.
Because every life matters – and every person with the right intention can make a difference.