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Collegiate Conservation Program Internship (Summer)

Are you interested in diving deeper into the world of conservation education and becoming a member of the next generation of conservation heroes?  Apply now for an internship with the Houston Zoo Collegiate Conservation Program sponsored by ExxonMobil. 

Ten interns will be selected to train, learn, and collaborate for 10 weeks at the Houston Zoo and regional conservation partner locations from May 20, 2019 – July 26, 2019. Interns will receive a $1,500 stipend at the conclusion of the internship to offset living expenses during the experience. The stipends are sponsored by a generous donation from ExxonMobil. 

Throughout the 10 weeks, interns will:
  • Understand the role of action-oriented conservation campaigns
  • Explore the elements that go into a zoo-based conservation organization including:
  • Conservation Education
  • Development and Funding
  • Marketing
  • Graphics
  • Public Relations
  • Enhance teamwork, leadership and communication skills integral when working with others towards the goal of saving wildlife
  • Practice local conservation techniques with field partners around the Houston area
  • Learn from Houston Zoo global conservation partners. Past guest professors have included Gabriel Massocato from the Giant Armadillo Project in Brazil and Dr. Jonah Ratsimbazafy from GERP in Madagascar
  • Participate in networking opportunities with conservation professionals, Houston Zoo staff, and CEO Lee Ehmke

What past participants are saying:
“Before CCP, I only knew that I loved wildlife and conservation, but I had no sense of what direction I wanted to go with that love. CCP taught me so many things about myself and gave me a purpose and sense of direction. I have made positive changes in my lifestyle and grown as a conservationist.”
“My experience through CCP was truly a stepping stone towards my future. I learned to work, learn, play and grow with an amazing community. Working with a group of like-minded individuals helped me learn about communication. I will be carrying this experience for the rest of my life.”
“This program was life changing for me. I have developed a new sense of confidence to go out and share my passion with others. I feel excited about what the future may hold for me and I have never felt that way before. This program made my summer the best one yet and I can't wait to continue staying involved and connected at this amazing zoo.”

Requirements
  • Each intern must be a currently enrolled undergraduate student who will be returning to college as a full-time sophomore, junior, or senior student for at least the fall semester after the internship. Before the internship can begin, the student must provide the Houston Zoo with written enrollment verification from the college confirming the student’s enrollment status. Student ID cards and/or phone calls are not sufficient documentation. Official enrollment verification must come from a university’s registrar office. As a helpful tip, this documentation is the same paperwork that auto insurance companies require to confirm student driver enrollment.
  • Must submit a complete online application including resume and cover letter by the deadline. 
  • Must be available for a Skype interview session during the week of March 18. 
  • Family members of board or staff at Houston Zoo or ExxonMobil are not eligible to be selected as interns of this program.

Expectations during 10-Week Internship
  • Must be available May 20, 2019 – July 26, 2019 with variable hours. General schedule of 30-35 hours per week, worked primarily Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; some evenings, weekends, or overnights required.
  • 75% of this time will be spent working in the field at off-site regional conservation partners in the Houston area. Some of our 2018 regional conservation partners were the Galveston Bay Foundation, Armand Bayou Nature Center and Brazos Bend State Park. Transportation to partners will be provided by the Zoo. 
  • 25% of this time will be spent on Zoo grounds learning from Houston Zoo professionals. 
  • Collaborate on a culminating project, synthesizing information learned over the entire summer. 
  • Abide by all Houston Zoo policies and procedures, including safety protocol.
  • Exposure to outdoor weather such as heat, humidity, and rain will be required.
  • Housing and transportation to and from the Houston Zoo will be the responsibility of the intern.

Expectations Following 10-Week Internship
  • Three months after internship – Participate in conference call to discuss behavior changes since the end of the program and how the internship has created a lasting impact.
  • One year after internship – Act as a mentor to 2020 Collegiate Conservation Program interns.  

Apply at:
https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/adults/collegiate-conservation-program/