Animal Care Intern

Under direction and alongside trained animal care staff, the Animal Care Intern learns to perform routine work assignments involving the care of Zoo animals, as well as maintenance of exhibits, enclosures, service and animal holding areas. This position performs related work as required.

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 one of the following areas:  aquatics, birds, hoofstock, kangaroos, monkeys, or penguins.

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.

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.

*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.  Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.

*All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

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.
  • Must pass a background and drug screening.