Animal Care Intern

Position Duties & Essential Functions

• Assists with daily maintenance of habitats and holding areas, including:
• Learning to clean habitats, holding areas, and staff areas.
• Learning to perform minor repairs and improvements of habitats, under supervision.
• Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager.
• Assisting with lawn care and other horticultural maintenance.
• Assists with the daily care of assigned team’s animals, including:
• Learning and assisting with basic husbandry activities, such as preparing diets, creating/implementing enrichment activities, training techniques, etc.
• Learning about the daily observation of animal health and wellbeing.
• Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and staff, including:
• Learning to perform or assist with various keeper chats and animal shows.
• Engaging with visitors to answer questions about Zoo & Aquarium and animals.
• Learning to work professionally as part of a team.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education & Formal Training:
• High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
• Completing coursework for a degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field preferred.
• Experience:
• Basic knowledge of animal behavior welcomed.
• Strong observational skills, which will be used to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets and behavior.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Other Minimum Requirements:
• Must have valid driver’s license.
• Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to manage stress and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, employees, or the public.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes.

Seasonal Nature of Position

This is a seasonal position, working 40 hours per week, starting in September. Seasonal start and end dates can vary based upon individual availability and team needs. Multiple openings are available, and interns may be placed in any of the available areas. Please be advised that preference will be given to applicants currently residing in the Kansas City metro area, who have not previously participated in a Zoo & Aquarium internship and/or volunteer program.