Interns in Jungle of the Apes will work closely with great ape zookeepers to learn the basic principles of chimpanzee, gorilla and orangutan husbandry and daily care. Daily shadowing will allow you to follow each species’ routine and will include habitat cleaning, decorating, preparing environmental enrichment items, diet preparations and other varied rotational projects. Interns are integral members of the ape keeper team. Interns will be able to use their creativity to implement new ideas for various projects assigned to each intern group. Some of the past projects have been habitat furniture redecoration, enrichment device building and behavioral observations. There will also be opportunities to observe operant conditioning training sessions and observations of enrichment use. Interns must have a negative TB test. 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.
