Education and Ambassador Animal Intern

Facility

Utica Zoo

Closing Date

[jobclosingdate]

Description

Scope: The Education and Ambassador Animal Intern is a member of the Utica Zoo’s education team reporting to the Lead Education Specialist. This position offers experience in all facets of the zoo education field, including program development, implementation, and evaluation, as well as ambassador animal handling, training, and husbandry. The Education and Ambassador Animal intern will assist with education programming including outreach, summer camp, ambassador animal encounters, birthday parties, and guided tours.

To apply, please email resume, and cover letter to HR@uticazoo.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

This is an unpaid internship opportunity. Housing is not offered, but housing recommendations in the area are provided upon request.

Duties:

Assist outreach education staff with offsite programming, traveling and presenting to locations including school programs, camp programs, assisted living facilities, festivals, and events.
Assist zoo camp staff to prepare and facilitate camp activities, assist with animal presentations, monitor students during breaks, and guide campers through the zoo.
Learn and maintain ambassador animal handling certification; Once trained, responsible for knowing and abiding by proper handling, transportation, presentation, training, and interaction protocols for a diverse collection of animals in preparation for and during programs.
Understand and employ best practices in conservation messaging to connect Zoo audiences to conservation issues, threats, and solutions with the goal of encouraging environmental stewardship.
Other duties as assigned.

Education and Pre-requisites

Requirements:

Preference given to candidates pursuing a degree in formal education, outdoor/environmental education, zoology, ecology, or a related field
Preference given to candidates with public speaking or teaching experience.
Must be comfortable working in close proximity to wild and domestic animals in a zoo setting as well as handling select ambassador animals.
Ability to interact with a variety of constituencies, ages, and learning abilities while maintaining a positive and respectful attitude
Ability to lift 50 lbs. and participate in physical activities required of the position.
Accepted applicants must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination and a negative TB Test (Must be within 6 months of the start of the internship).
Accepted applicants must provide proof of employment eligibility
Flexible start and end dates offered. Interns must be flexible with their schedule, and have the ability to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

Compensation and benefits