Heart of Africa Internship

About the Role

The Heart of Africa Internship at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium provides a basic understanding of general husbandry for animals in the new Africa Region. Interns will gain hands-on experience and assist in achieving the Zoo's mission.

Summer Opportunities Reviewed in April - May

Key Responsibilities

• Assisting full-time keeper staff in preparing animal diets.
• Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits.
• Observing animals and reporting any behavioral changes.
• Learning basic training skills.
• Performing other duties as assigned.
• Completing various quizzes, trainings, projects, and a final reflection paper.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ability to balance multiple assignments successfully.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be neat in appearance and maintain courteous behavior at all times.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions (i.e., extreme heat, cold, rain, snow).
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays (July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day).
• Subject to BMV check.

Qualifications

• Second Year College Student or recent graduate (2 years or less) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine or related program.
• 3.0 or above accumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale preferred.
• TB test required.
• Prior animal care experience preferred.

Hours

• Minimum of 20 hours a week for 12 to 16 weeks.

RISE Scholarship Opportunity

Eligible interns may apply for the Battelle-funded RISE Scholarship, which awards $5,000 to support hands-on, mission-driven internship experiences. Applicants must be Ohio residents or attend an Ohio college or university and meet all other program eligibility requirements.

Scholarship application windows:

• Summer: February 1 - March 31