About the role#
This 8-week summer internship provides early-career college students with hands-on experience in zoo operations and conservation. Interns participate in daily departmental work and attend weekly cohort meetings to build professional skills and connect with peers. The program culminates in a capstone presentation reflecting on the internship experience.
What you'll do#
Interns are placed in specific departments based on their interests and zoo needs. Responsibilities include:
- Animal Management: Gain training in animal husbandry, including exhibit cleaning, diet preparation, animal observations, and feeding. Placements include East Team, Ornithology, Trails, and Primate teams.
- Development: Assist with donor stewardship, campaign preparation, data management, and cross-department storytelling.
- Events: Support event operations for summer concerts, fundraisers, and private events.
- Facilities & Sustainability: Support planning and construction of habitat improvements and advance sustainability through operational analytics and project support.
- GIS Sustainability: Assist in spatial data collection, integration, and analysis to support tree and plant inventory systems.
- Health & Safety: Gather safety information, participate in inspections, and assist with incident reviews.
What you'll need#
- Must be at least 18 years old by the start of the program.
- Currently enrolled in a 2- or 4-year college program.
- Ability to reliably attend and complete the full 8-week term.
- Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
- Passion for zoos, wildlife, and conservation.
Location & details#
- Location: On-site in Seattle, Washington.
- Term: Summer 2026 (July 6, 2026 – August 30, 2026).
- Schedule: Full-time, 32 hours per week. Interns must be available to work on Wednesdays; specific schedules vary by department and may include evening shifts for events.
- Compensation: Paid position.
