The Sea Lion Sound department at the Saint Louis Zoo is responsible for a group of pinnipeds that includes California sea lions and harbor seals. Interns at Sea Lion Sound will be exposed to the care and training of Sea Lion Sound’s animals. Interns will assist with tasks crucial to the daily care Sea Lion Sound staff provides for their animals. Tasks include, but are not limited to the following: diet preparation, cleaning and maintaining behind the scenes and public facing areas, assisting with show, tour, and program preparation, assisting with record keeping, learning and participating in a goal-based enrichment program, and interacting with and educating Saint Louis Zoo guests. Interns will work closely with full-time trainers and will have opportunities to observe training sessions, feedings, shows, and behind-the-scenes tours and programs. Discussions with an assigned mentor and assigned readings throughout the internship provide opportunities for interns to further understand the use of operant conditioning and training as an animal management tool. During the summer, interns generally work 40 hours a week, including weekends and holidays. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for this position.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Minimum age requirement is 18.
- Applicants need not be currently enrolled in college/university, but prior college coursework is required.
- All successful candidates will be required to submit to a background check and a drug test.
Summer 2025 Paid Internship Opportunities:
In addition to departmental specific duties, interns will meet with their peers for regular learning opportunities such as tours, career panels and professional development, as well as demonstrate their learning at the completion of the internship through a presentation. With support from our zookeepers, educators and researcher mentors, interns will learn how a zoo operates while gaining valuable new skills and a better understanding of future career opportunities. The most successful candidates will be curious, motivated and open to learning.
The Saint Louis Zoo is committed to playing a pivotal role in diversifying the future workforce of zoos and conservation organizations. The Saint Louis Zoo paid internship program is designed for emerging zoo professionals from populations who are underrepresented in the animal care and zoo industry. Candidates who have financial need (those who otherwise would not be able to pursue an unpaid internship), reside in the Greater St. Louis bi-state metropolitan area, identify as Black, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, Arab, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, Latino/a/x, and/or those with diverse cultural experiences are encouraged to apply. All submitted applications will be considered.
Required Materials:
Please have these materials ready to be uploaded into your application.
- A letter of intent
- Resume
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
The earliest start date for summer internships will be May 26, 2025, and interns will complete 300 hours, at a pay rate of $14.00/hour.
