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Internship Program

Do you belong in a Zoo?

Looking for more than just a Normal Volunteer Experience?

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The internship program at Washington Park Zoo offers students 18 years and older the chance to gain hands on experience and knowledge by with professional staff. Although this is an unpaid internship, the skills acquired will enhance future opportunities in the zoological field or related careers.

 

Internships are available for college students in various areas including animal care, public relations, summer camp (education majors only), education outreach, horticulture, construction, and more. We can also help with focused research study projects related to class assignments.

 

Candidates should have at least one year of college and be pursuing a degree in biology, zoology, animal behavior, or similar fields. Strong communication and observation skills, along with the ability to work well in a team, are essential. The nature of zoo work can be physically demanding, and interns may face various physical and environmental challenges, including outdoor work in different weather conditions. 

Current Internship Opportunities
Animal Care Internship
Education Internship
Custom project experience for individuals or groups
Summer Camp Counselor
Exhibit Design - Construction Internship
Communications/Marketing Internship
Horticulture Internship
The purpose of Washington Park Zoo’s Intern Program:

  1. to provide practical, on-the-job experience;

  2. to provide exposure to zoo operations and zoo careers;

  3. to demonstrate the unique advantages of zoos as a supplement to conventional learning programs.

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The goal of interns in this program will be to learn and successfully perform (under supervision) the duties and responsibilities of a full-time employee in the assigned area. Interns are supervised and instructed by full-time zoo employees.

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The Washington Park Zoo will work with students to document the necessary time or projects needed to gain university credit for the internship. Unfortunately, we do not provide transportation or housing. Interns can be dismissed for the unacceptable performance of duties/responsibilities and/or for non-compliance with Washington Park Zoo regulations and procedures.

Requirements for Application:

  1. All applicants must be minimum of 18 years of age.

  2. All applicants must have an overall “C” grade point average

  3. All applicants, if accepted, must submit written results of a negative tuberculosis test.

  4. Applicant must have the ability to stand, stoop, bend, reach, climb, and lift at least 50 lbs.

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Only completed application packets will be considered. A complete packet includes the following:

  1. A standard application form

  2. A letter from the applicant detailing what he/she hopes to gain from the program, and how the internship relates to past experience, future plans, and career goals.

  3. A resume including work and/or military experience.

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 Complete application packets for internships must be received one month prior to the start of the internship. For further information, please contact us at (219) 873-1510 or email jhuss@emichigancity.com.

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