African Savanna Hoofstock Intern (Zoo)

The Africa department is currently seeking applicants for its 2022 internship placements.

Audubon Zoo is currently accepting applications for a zookeeper internship program in the Africa department for the Spring session (Jan – April). During this internship, candidates will be given the opportunity to work with and 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, Thomson’s Gazelle, Nyala, Bongo, Maned Wolves, Giraffe (Reticulated and Rothschild), African Painted Dogs and African Lions. The interns will work primarily with and around the hoofstock, but some opportunities to observe carnivore training and care may occur.

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.

Job Description:

This internship is geared towards enthusiastic, hardworking, and motivated individuals interested in zoo keeping or 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), minimum of 3 days/week (8 hours/day) including holidays and weekends. Schedules are flexible and more hours are available if desired, up to 5 days/week. Start/End dates are also flexible.

Working conditions:

  • Most 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 lbs)
  • 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 and pass a background check.
  • 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

How to apply: To apply please send a resume and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this opportunity to Katie Christensen at africa@auduboninstitute.org. Please add “Internship Application – Your Name” as the subject. Please be sure to indicate your preferred session(s) in your application materials.

If your preferred placement has been filled, qualified applicants may be referred to other Audubon departments. By submitting application materials, the candidate agrees to release their information to our internship staff.