Elephant Internship Summer 2027

Overview

This internship offers an opportunity to learn about the general husbandry and care of animals within the Elephant area. Interns will actively assist with daily operations and gain exposure to professional zoo practices.

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

• Spring Opportunities: Reviewed in December - January
• Summer Opportunities: Reviewed in February - April
• Fall Opportunities: Reviewed in June - August
• Winter Opportunities: Reviewed in October - November

Responsibilities

Interns will work alongside full-time keeper staff and may assist with:

• Preparing animal diets
• Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits
• Observing animal behavior and documenting findings
• Learning basic training concepts through observation
• Maintaining area grounds and buildings
• Adhering to all safety guidelines and protocols
• Interacting with guests and supporting educational programs
• Performing other duties as assigned

Interns will also complete structured learning components, including quizzes, projects, and a final reflection paper.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the internship, participants will:

• Understand the fundamentals of elephant husbandry and zoo operations
• Gain experience in daily care routines for large mammals
• Learn about animal behavior observation and documentation techniques
• Develop knowledge of safety protocols and professional standards in animal care
• Enhance communication and teamwork skills in a zoological setting

Benefits of This Internship

• Hands-on experience in a professional zoo environment
• Exposure to career paths in animal care, conservation, and wildlife management
• Networking opportunities with experienced animal care professionals
• Development of practical skills that support future employment or advanced studies

Qualifications

• Second-year college student or recent graduate (within 2 years) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field
• 3.0 GPA or higher preferred
• TB test required
• Prior animal care experience preferred
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple assignments
• Professional appearance and courteous behavior
• Flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays (e.g., July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day)
• Subject to BMV and criminal background checks

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow)
• Ability to walk, bend, and stand for extended periods

Hours: Minimum of 20 hours a week for 12 to 16 weeks

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