25mo ago

North America Trek Internship (2026)

entry

OtherNorth America

0 views0 saves0 applied

Quick Summary

Overview

Overview This internship provides an opportunity to learn about the general husbandry and daily care of animals within the North America Trek / Polar Frontier region. Interns will actively support daily operations and gain exposure to professional zoo practices.

Key Responsibilities

Interns will work alongside full-time keeper staff and may assist with: Preparing animal diets Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits Observing animals and reporting behavioral changes Designing and delivering educational programs…

Requirements Summary

Second-year college student or recent graduate (within the last 2 years) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or a related field TB test required Prior animal care experience preferred Ability to manage…

Technical Tools

OtherNorth America

Responsibilities

~1 min read

Preparing animal diets
Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits
Observing animals and reporting behavioral changes
Designing and delivering educational programs to guests on animal behavior, habitats, and conservation topics
Maintaining area grounds and buildings
Adhering to all safety guidelines and protocols
Interacting with guests and supporting educational initiatives
Performing other duties as assigned

Interns will also complete structured learning components, including quizzes, in person or virtual classes, projects, and a final reflection paper assigned by the department.

Understand the fundamentals of North American species husbandry and zoo operations
Gain experience in daily care routines for a variety of animal species
Learn animal behavior observation and documentation techniques
Develop knowledge of safety procedures and professional expectations in animal care
Strengthen communication and teamwork skills within a zoological environment

What We Offer

~1 min read

✓Hands-on experience in a professional zoo setting

✓Exposure to career paths in animal care, conservation, and wildlife management

✓Opportunities to network with experienced animal care professionals

✓Development of practical skills supporting future employment or advanced studies

Requirements

~1 min read

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

Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, snow)
Ability to walk, bend, and stand for extended periods

Minimum of 20 hours per week for 12–16 weeks

The RISE Scholarship, generously funded by Battelle, is now open! Eligible interns can apply for a $5,000 scholarship supporting hands‑on, mission‑driven internship experiences across the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds—applications are open May 1– June 30, 2026.To Apply to the RISE Scholarship, please visit: https://www.columbuszoo.org/rise-scholarships