Animal Enrichment Internship - Summer 2027

Overview:

 

The goal of our animal enrichment internships is to conceptualize and build animal enrichment devices that will stimulate our animals mentally and physically in order to promote species appropriate behaviors.  Through interactions with keeper staff and observations of multiple species both before and after enrichment is given, students will gain an understanding of species specific behaviors, what is needed to stimulate or deter specific behaviors and the process used to approve and evaluate enrichment items.

 

Application Review Periods: Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed on the following schedule:

• Summer Opportunities: Reviewed in April - May

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to conceptualizing new enrichment items, utilizing the current system for approval, construction of items to meet all safety standards, observation and documentation of the use of these items, and modifications to items as needed.  In addition, the interns will assist the keeper staff in the maintenance of our current monthly enrichment calendars and enrichment tracking sheets.  Interns may also be responsible for delivering educational interpretation to the general public regarding animal enrichment.  Interns will also be required to complete various quizzes, trainings, projects, and a final reflection paper assigned by the department.

 

Hours:

Minimum of 20 hours per week for 12-16 weeks to support completion of training, projects, and learning objectives.

Qualifications:

• Second Year College Student or recent graduate (2 years or less).
• 3.0 or above accumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale preferred.
• TB test required upon starting.
• General interest in animal behavior and a willingness to work around exotics.
• Demonstrated ability in the use of power tools and basic construction
• Basic computer knowledge preferred (Word, Excel, Internet explorer)
• Ability to perform strenuous physical work required (see Physical Demands section on next page)
• Ability to balance multiple assignments successfully.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be neat in appearance and maintain courteous behavior at all times.
• Ability to maintain cooperative working relationships with all Zoo team members and contacts regarding company business required.
• Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols required.
• Ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding the guest services standards.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions (i.e. extreme heat, cold, rain, snow).
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays (July 4^th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day) required.
• Subject to BMV check.
• Subject to Criminal Background check.

RISE Scholarship Opportunity 
Eligible interns may apply for the Battelle-funded RISE Scholarship, which awards $5,000 to support hands-on, mission-driven internship experiences at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. Applicants must be Ohio residents or attend an Ohio college or university and meet all other program eligibility requirements. 

If you are awarded a RISE Scholarship, the scholarship fund will be dispersed during the timeframe of your internship.

Scholarship application windows: 

• Winter: October 1 - November 30 

• Spring: December 1 - January 31 

• Summer: February 1 - March 31 

• Fall: May 1 - June 30 

 

 To Apply to the RISE Scholarship, please visit: https://www.columbuszoo.org/rise-scholarships 

 

This is an unpaid internship offered for educational purposes. The internship is intended to provide practical learning experience and does not guarantee future employment with the Columbus Zoo Conservation Parks. The intern is not entitled to wages or benefits, and completion of the internship does not create an expectation of a paid position.