Animal Care Internship

Animal Care Internship Program

The Dakota Zoo is seeking qualified individuals to take part in our Animal Care and Wildlife Internships. Interns will gain valuable experience working with a variety of animals under the direction of our full-time animal care staff.  Tasks include basic animal husbandry, cleaning, diet prep, enrichment, groundskeeping, exhibit maintenance, record keeping, and keeper chats.  Areas include Carnivore Team (Raptors, Tigers, Bears, Oh my!), Exotics Team (Penguin, Primates, Reptiles, Misc.), and Hoofstock Team (Large Native and Exotic Hoofstock, Farmyard, Pheasants). Interns also have an opportunity to assist with local conservation projects.

Internship semesters run from January-April, May-August, and September-December. This internship requires a minimum of 20 hours per week. Schedule will depend on need and availability however all interns will be required to work most weekends and holidays as needed. Internships offer a modest stipend upon successful completion. Housing is not provided.

Requirements:

- College students pursuing a degree in zoology, biology, wildlife sciences or a related field.

- Must have completed 2 years of college and have an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher.

- Must be able to work in all weather conditions and tolerate strong odors, dust, animal hair and hay.

- Must be able to work in confined spaces as well as be able to bend, stoop, and safely lift 50lbs.

- Must have a current tetanus vaccination and be willing to have an annual TB test.

- Previous animal experience is preferred but not required.

The Dakota Zoo:

The Dakota Zoo is an AZA and ZAA accredited facility located in Bismarck, North Dakota. This 90-acre facility houses around 500 mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish representing 125 species. The Dakota Zoo participates in over 16 Species Survival Plan programs for endangered or threatened species and has served as a rehabilitation facility for injured and orphaned raptors for over 50 years. The Dakota Zoo is proud to be involved with numerous conservation initiatives both locally and globally.