Interns in the Bird Department will work with a diverse collection of birds while gaining knowledge and experience about their care and conservation. Daily duties include, but are not limited to, diet preparation and feeding (meat, whole prey, insects, and fish), training with operant conditioning, providing enrichment opportunities, observing animal behavior and record keeping, maintaining excellent communication with Zoo staff and guests, and assisting with veterinary procedures, where appropriate. The Bird internship position requires interns to work indoors and outdoors, regardless of season. Interns will be monitored by a full-time keeper and will have opportunities to work directly with the birds. Must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, including standing for long periods of time, lifting, bending and working in all types of weather conditions. Must be able to team lift up to 50 pounds.
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.
