Summer 2020 Small Mammal Animal Care Internship (Grinnellink)
Blank Park Zoo
Summer 2020 Small Mammal Animal Care Internship
The Blank Park Zoo is now accepting applications for the 2020 Summer Small Mammal Animal Care Internship. Internships are open to hard working, motivated candidates considering a career in zoo keeping. Internships are unpaid; housing and transportation are the responsibility of the intern.
Successful candidates will have responsibilities that may include basic husbandry, enrichment, and project planning. Interns work alongside mentor keepers to observe animal procedures, handling, and transports. Species in this section: Bennett’s Wallaby, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Llamas, Miniature Zebu and Miniature Donkey. Outstanding individuals may gain the opportunity to assist with the daily care of Red Panda, Prehensile-Tailed Porcupine, and Golden-Headed Lion Tamarin as well as working Prairie Dog routine. Interns must be able to work independently, as well as a part of a team and enjoy working with a variety of animals.
Summer intern dates are as follows: May 20th – August 7th, 2020
Animal Care Interns will be introduced to general animal husbandry practices, including:
Daily cleaning and disinfection protocols
Animal observation and record keeping
Proper diet preparation
Exhibit maintenance
Public & volunteer interactions
Introduction to behavioral enrichment and training
Introduction to Animal restraint and handling
Veterinary procedure participation
Problem solving
Requirements:
18 years or older, currently enrolled in college
Provide proof from university that the internship will be for college credit
Preference is given to those who are in the zoology, ecology, conservation biology, or related field
Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships
Test Negative for TB, test will need to be done and paperwork turned in by the first day.
Successfully complete a background check
Capable of lifting 50 lbs.
Willing and able to work in all weather conditions
Available a minimum 16 hours per week including weekends and holidays.
Previous animal care experience preferred, but not required.
Select and execute a project with the help of animal care staff, presented at the completion of the internship.
To apply, please send an Animal Care Intern Application, resume, and cover letter indicating department of interest to: Christine Eckles,Chief Engagement Officer, 7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315 or email: cneckles@blankparkzoo.net.
Handshake will redirect applicants to our online application system for the Animal Care Intern position.
Application Deadline: March 1st, 2020