Lepidopterist Intern
The Butterfly Pavilion is seeking a creative, highly motivated, and energetic individual to assist in butterfly and moth care, handling, and record keeping as part of a team of talented and experienced staff and volunteers. The primary goal of the Butterfly Pavilion Curatorial Internship is for individuals to gain knowledge and hands-on training in invertebrate animal husbandry.
Company Description: Butterfly Pavilion combines science education with interactive fun to teach visitors about invertebrates and conservation. Invertebrates, animals without backbones, make up 97% of all animal species on the planet! Our zoo is designed to showcase the diversity of these small wonders, their habitats, and the big role they play in ensuring the health of our environment. Five immersive exhibits, including a tropical rainforest filled with 1600 free-flying butterflies, provide visitors of all ages with an unforgettable experience. We are the zoo of small wonders and BIG experiences!
Butterfly Pavilion's Mission: To foster an appreciation of invertebrates while educating the public about the importance of conservation of threatened habitats in the tropics and around the world.
Intern Responsibilities:
- Day-to-day care of all Lepidopteran animals on exhibit and behind the scenes, maintaining daily record keeping
- Day-to-day care of some terrestrial invertebrate animals behind the scenes, maintaining daily record keeping in Tracks database system
- Clean and maintain all exhibit and behind-the-scene areas
- Provide support to Curatorial team
- Uphold AZA accreditation standards
- Comply with USDA containment standards
- Maintain a clean working environment
- Develop and execute an independent project, focused on Lepidoptera, to emphasize particular interest and expand the knowledge base of the Curatorial Department
- Serve as a resource to guests in the exhibit areas of the Butterfly Pavilion
Intern Qualifications:
- Pursuing a degree in biology, environmental sciences, or related fields. Recent graduates also accepted.
- Interest in invertebrate animal husbandry and care
- Basic computer skills (word processing, spreadsheets)
- Willingness to handle animals (all training provided onsite)
- Criminal background check
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age
- Individuals of all ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to apply
Reports to: Lepidopterist
Duration of Internship: Interns must complete 300 hours, typically aligned with school trimesters
Hours per week: 2-3 days per week/16-24 hours per week
Start Dates:
Spring - January
Summer - May
Fall - August
Stipend: Unpaid; school credit can be earned for this internship in most cases