North America Trek Internship (2026)

Overview

 

This internship provides an opportunity to learn about the general husbandry and daily care of animals within the North America Trek / Polar Frontier region. Interns will actively support daily operations and gain exposure to professional zoo practices.

Responsibilities

Interns will work alongside full-time keeper staff and may assist with:

• Preparing animal diets
• Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits
• Observing animals and reporting behavioral changes
• Designing and delivering educational programs to guests on animal behavior, habitats, and conservation topics
• Maintaining area grounds and buildings
• Adhering to all safety guidelines and protocols
• Interacting with guests and supporting educational initiatives
• Performing other duties as assigned

Interns will also complete structured learning components, including quizzes, in person or virtual classes, projects, and a final reflection paper assigned by the department.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the internship, participants will:

• Understand the fundamentals of North American species husbandry and zoo operations
• Gain experience in daily care routines for a variety of animal species
• Learn animal behavior observation and documentation techniques
• Develop knowledge of safety procedures and professional expectations in animal care
• Strengthen communication and teamwork skills within a zoological environment

 Benefits of This Internship

• Hands-on experience in a professional zoo setting
• Exposure to career paths in animal care, conservation, and wildlife management
• Opportunities to network with experienced animal care professionals
• Development of practical skills supporting future employment or advanced studies

Qualifications

• Second-year college student or recent graduate (within the last 2 years) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or a related field
• TB test required
• Prior animal care experience preferred
• Ability to manage multiple assignments successfully
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Professional appearance and courteous behavior
• Flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays (e.g., July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day)
• Subject to BMV check
• Subject to Criminal Background check

 Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, snow)
• Ability to walk, bend, and stand for extended periods

 Hours

Minimum of 20 hours per week for 12–16 weeks

 

The RISE Scholarship, generously funded by Battelle, is now open! Eligible interns can apply for a $5,000 scholarship supporting hands‑on, mission‑driven internship experiences across the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds—applications are open March 1–31, 2026.To Apply to the RISE Scholarship, please visit: https://www.columbuszoo.org/rise-scholarships

Salary : $5,000