Mammal Department Internship- Fall 2026

Mammal Department Internship- Fall 2026

General Description

The Life Science internship in the Mammal Department is contingent on the intern being currently enrolled at an accredited four-year college or university and seeking a degree in a science-related area. Students must earn college credit for their time as an intern. Interns will work with the Life Science staff to learn the duties and responsibilities of zookeeping as a profession. Interns will help provide daily care for the animals including feeding, cleaning, behavioral observations, habitat modifications, and participation in special projects all designed to help ensure the best welfare for each animal. Interns will also interact with guests and help ensure outstanding overall guest experiences.

Internships are approximately 14 weeks in length with flexible hours and days to be discussed upon hiring.

This job description is by no means all-inclusive and may be subject to change due to the needs of the Detroit Zoological Society and its leadership. This document will be reviewed on a continual basis and will be modified as needed.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Shadowing zookeepers providing daily care, including but not limited to, feeding, cleaning and habitat maintenance
• Take direction from staff concerning duties, responsibilities, and safety procedures
• Participate in special projects that benefit the animals
• Observations of animals and enhancing animal welfare
• Submit a written 2-3-page paper summarizing your time as an intern. This is due one week before the internship ends.

Qualifications

• Junior or senior level status currently enrolled in a college or university, proof required.
• Letter of recommendation from an accredited college professor stating credit will be received for the internship.
• College course work completed in zoology, biology, animal behavior or related field.
• Must be self- motivated and have a strong work ethic.
• All interns must have proof of a negative TB test within the last 12 months on or before start date. The Human Resources department for the Detroit Zoological Society will also perform a background check on all students before they can start their internship.

Working Conditions

Work is performed indoors and outdoors with exposure to all seasonal weather conditions. Frequent exposure to animals with risk of zoonotic disease transmission (Tuberculosis, Salmonella and others).

Physical Requirements

Interns must be able to perform all principal duties satisfactorily. Able to perform moderate physical effort daily such as walking, bending, stooping, lifting, and standing for an extended period. Able to lift up to 50 pounds.

The individual must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily with or without accommodations. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.