Closing Date: 12/30/2019
Facility: Audubon Nature Institute
Description:
The Audubon Zoo is currently accepting applications for a zookeeper internship program in their African Savanna section. During this internship, candidates will be given the opportunity to work alongside some of the most exciting species the African savanna has to offer and then some! The section currently includes: Southern White Rhinos, White-bearded Wildebeest, Red River Hogs, Plains Zebra, Thomson’s Gazelle, Maned wolves, Giraffe (Reticulated and Rothschild), and African Painted Dogs. This internship not only provides valuable hands on experience in exotic animal husbandry, but will also teach the importance of record keeping, training, conservation, and exhibit maintenance. Individuals will also be given the opportunity to perform informal public presentations to help educate our guests on our animals’ natural histories and conservation initiatives.

Internship Overview:

This internship is geared towards enthusiastic, hardworking, and motivated individuals interested in the zoo keeping field as well as other conservation related careers.

Although some flexibility is built into this program, successful applicants must be able to fulfill the general requirements listed below. This is an unpaid internship and housing is not provided.

Time commitment:

12 weeks (3 months) with a minimum of 4 days (8 hours/day) per week including holidays and weekends. Schedules are flexible and more hours may be available if desired. Start/End dates are also flexible.
Working conditions:

The majority of the work for this internship entails manual work outdoors. Therefore, applicants must be willing and able to work in all weather conditions.
Must be comfortable working around animals of all sizes and behave appropriately
Must be able to regularly push, pull, lift, and carry heavy objects (up to 75 pounds)
Must be able to walk/stand for extended periods of time
Must provide proof of a current negative TB test
Minimum Qualifications:

Must be at least 18 years old.
Must demonstrate an interest in animal care and husbandry. Previous animal care experience and/or coursework in a related field is preferred.
Must be able to follow both written and verbal instructions and effectively communicate with coworkers.
Must be able to educate our guests about wildlife in a fun and friendly manner.
Salary: Unpaid