Internship Descriptions

The following are general descriptions, and do not contain an exhaustive list of possible duties.

Zoo Education & Interpretive Programs Internships

GENERAL PURPOSE: To help prepare individuals for careers in conservation, environmental, interpretive, natural science or other field of education by providing practical, hands-on experience interning at an AZA accredited facility. Under the mentorship of Zoo Educators, Zoo Education & Interpretive Program interns assist in a variety of informal education initiatives. Some assignments may include working with Idaho Falls Zoo’s (IFZ) ambassador animals (after completing training) in programs both on, and off, zoo grounds.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Zoo Education & Interpretive Program interns support IFZ staff in preparing and presenting education programs which may include: 

• Communicating accurate information in an interpretive, empathetic manner
• Participating in ZooMobiles, IFZ’s outreach program 
• Interacting with guests at Exploration Stations around the zoo 
• Assisting education staff during camps and classes 
• Providing educational programming at zoo events
• Supporting fieldtrip groups 
• Sharing and promoting the zoo’s conservation initiatives 
• Pitching in to keep the zoo clean and inviting

This position is fast-paced, and can be physically and mentally challenging. It can be dirty, unglamorous and prone to changes in plan. However, the dynamic environment of zoo education can be highly rewarding to those who see it through. As such, ideal Education & Interpretive Program candidates:

• Have great people skills 
• Enjoy working with people of all ages (especially children) 
• Work well both independently and as a team member  
• Are energetic, positive and creative 
• Are passionate about wildlife and conservation

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

1.     Education and Experience:

A. Graduation from high school or equivalent; AND 

B. Currently enrolled in a university/college program related to education, biology, wildlife management, zoology, or conservation OR 

C. Have graduated from such a program within the last 12 months 

2.     Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Experience working with the general public, especially children 
• Detail oriented and organized
• Ability to follow precise written and verbal directions 
• Dependable and punctual
• Exhibit a strong work ethic 
• Prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions

3.     Special Qualifications:           

• Must be able to lift 30 pounds
• Must commit to a work schedule which may include some weekends and holidays
• Must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license
• Must provide proof of current tetanus vaccination 
• Must pass a background check prior to internship start date

PREFFERRED QUALITIES: 

• General knowledge of informal education practices 
• Previous animal handling experience is a plus
• Familiarity with basic biology and ecology principles

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Intern duties involve a variety of physical and mental tasks. Physical requirements include walking, standing, stooping, sitting, reaching, lifting, etc. Interns may be exposed to severe weather, and are expected to continue regular duties in any weather condition. Interns may encounter environmental hazards and/or dangers inherent to unpaved surfaces, and working in close approximation to animals or equipment. On occasion, interns may be asked perform tasks independent of direct supervision from zoo staff.

Animal Care Internships

GENERAL PURPOSE: To help prepare individuals for careers incorporating animal care by providing practical, hands-on experience volunteering at an AZA accredited zoo. Such careers include animal keeper, wildlife management and conservation science, among many others.

Internships are unpaid; travel and housing expenses are the responsibility of the intern.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Animal Care interns work alongside professional animal keepers to assist in a variety of tasks related to animal husbandry and visitor education. Specific duties include, but are not limited to, animal observation, diet preparation and delivery, exhibit cleaning and maintenance, constructing and placing enrichment activities, and interacting with the public on a regular basis. Interns may have opportunity to observe veterinary procedures, animal training, and learn/practice animal handling techniques. Interns may work with a wide variety of taxa, including amphibians, reptiles, birds (passerines, penguins, raptors, etc.), small and large carnivores, hoof stock and/or primates. Specific areas of focus depend on current needs of the zoo.

Zoo internships can be physically and mentally challenging. They are often dirty, smelly and unglamorous. For those with a passion for animal work, they can also be very rewarding. All interns must: 

• Be dependable
• Possess a strong work ethic
• Be prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1.    Education and Experience:

A.  Graduation from high school or equivalent; AND 

B. Currently enrolled in a university/college program related to biology, psychology, zoology, wildlife management, or conservation biology or have graduated within the last 12 months; previous animal care experience is not required, but is a plus; OR 

C. An equivalent combination of education and experience

2.    Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Must be detail oriented, and able to follow precise written and verbal instructions. Interns must be able to speak clearly, and possess both the auditory and visual acuity (with or without supplemental aids) required to perform assigned duties. Must commit to a work schedule, which may include weekends and holidays.

3.    Special Qualifications:          

General knowledge of animal husbandry preferred. Practical animal husbandry experience is a plus. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Must have a negative TB test within the last 2 years, and a current tetanus vaccination prior to starting the internship. Candidates must pass a City of Idaho Falls background check prior to internship. A background check form will be provided to applicants upon successfully interviewing with zoo staff.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Intern tasks are often physically demanding. Such activities may include walking, standing, stooping, sitting, reaching, lifting, etc. Interns will, at times, be exposed to inclement weather, environmental hazards and proximity to potentially dangerous animals and equipment. Mental application utilizes memory for details, emotional stability and discriminating thinking and creative problem solving.