Interns will develop an understanding of the goals of zoo ungulate conservation programs and principles of ungulate care in zoos. Duties may include food preparation, habitat and barn cleaning, habitat decorating and maintenance, animal observations, record-keeping, making enrichment, leading tours, and other projects as assigned (horticulture work, grounds clean-up, research projects, facility/equipment maintenance, developing new graphics or educational materials, data analysis). Interns will be restricted to tasks that do not require handling of the animals. Interns must have a negative TB test.
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.
