INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Congo Expedition Internship (2026)

CompanyColumbus Zoo Family of Parks
LocationPowell
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJanuary 15, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
Interns will assist with daily operations, including preparing diets, cleaning enclosures, and observing animal behavior. They will also interact with guests and provide educational interpretation on animal behavior and conservation.
Internship Type
other
Company Size
921
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
20 hours
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About The Company
Empowering People. Saving Wildlife. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to more than 6,000+ animals representing 600 species. The Zoo is a regional attraction with global impact; annually contributing $4 million of privately raised funds to support conservation projects worldwide. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Columbus Zoo has earned Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating. For open positions, please visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/jobs
About the Role

Overview

 

This internship provides an opportunity to learn about the general husbandry and care of animals within the Congo Expedition region. Interns will actively assist with daily operations and gain hands-on experience while observing the day-to-day responsibilities of a Zookeeper.

Responsibilities

Interns will work alongside full-time keeper staff and may assist with:
  • Preparing animal diets
  • Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits
  • Observing animals and reporting behavioral changes
  • Designing and delivering educational interpretation to guests on animal behavior, habitats, and conservation
  • Maintaining area grounds and buildings
  • Adhering to all safety guidelines and protocols
  • Interacting with guests and providing excellent guest service
  • Performing other duties as assigned
Interns will also complete structured learning components, including quizzes, required trainings, projects, and a final reflection paper assigned by the department.  Learning Outcomes By the end of the internship, participants will:
  • Understand the fundamentals of husbandry for species within the Congo Expedition region
  • Gain practical experience in daily care routines for a diverse collection of animals
  • Learn animal behavior observation and reporting techniques
  • Develop knowledge of safety procedures and professional standards in animal care
  • Strengthen communication, interpretation, and teamwork skills in a zoological setting
Benefits of This Internship
  • Hands-on experience working within a professional zoo setting
  • Exposure to careers in animal care, conservation, and wildlife management
  • Opportunities to collaborate with experienced animal care professionals
  • Development of practical skills to support future employment or advanced academic pursuits
 

Qualifications

  • Second-year college student or recent graduate (within 2 years) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field
  • 3.0 GPA or higher preferred
  • TB test required upon starting
  • Prior animal care experience preferred
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to balance multiple assignments
  • Professional appearance and courteous behavior
  • Ability to maintain cooperative working relationships with Zoo staff and contacts
  • Ability to follow standard operating procedures, including all safety protocols
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays (e.g., July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day)
  • Subject to BMV check
  • Subject to criminal background check
Physical & Environmental Requirements
  • Ability to perform strenuous physical work
  • Ability to lift, bend, walk, and stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow
HoursMinimum of 20 hours per week for 12–16 weeks.
Key Skills
Animal CareCommunication SkillsTeamworkBehavior ObservationSafety ProceduresGuest ServiceTime ManagementProfessional Appearance
Categories
Environmental & SustainabilityScience & ResearchEducationHospitalitySocial Services
Benefits
Hands-On ExperienceExposure to Careers in Animal CareOpportunities to Collaborate with Experienced Animal Care ProfessionalsDevelopment of Practical Skills