Animal Care Intern - Ruwenzori Team

About This Role

The Animal Care Intern will gain hands-on experience in the daily care and husbandry of a variety of African animals within the Ruwenzori team, including maintaining habitats and engaging with visitors. This role offers practical learning in animal care under the guidance of experienced staff.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily maintenance of habitats and holding areas, including cleaning
• Perform minor repairs and improvements of habitats under supervision
• Report maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager
• Assist with lawn care and other horticultural maintenance
• Learn and assist with basic husbandry activities, such as preparing diets, creating/implementing enrichment activities, and training techniques
• Learn about the daily observation of animal health and wellbeing
• Learn to perform or assist with various keeper chats and animal shows
• Engage with visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium and animals

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED certificate
• Strong observational skills
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to obtain negative TB test
• Ability to lift 50 pounds
• Sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to manage stress and make immediate decisions concerning safety
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes
• Ability to pass a background and drug screening

Qualifications

• High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate; coursework for a degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field preferred.
• Basic knowledge of animal behavior welcomed.

Nice to Have

• Completing coursework for a degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field