Animal Care Behavioral Observation Internship - Fall 2027

Columbus Zoo Family of Parks•Powell, OH

2h•Onsite

About The Position

This internship focuses on animal behavior and wellbeing, offering hands-on experience in designing and conducting animal observation projects. Interns will work closely with the Animal Wellbeing team, learning about developing ethograms, sampling rules, recording techniques, and applying these concepts to answer specific questions. Training will be provided on Scanimals, CZA’s general animal observation program. Interns will conduct small, independent projects in their region, typically focusing on activity budgets, habitat usage, and conspecific or enrichment interactions. Upon project completion, interns will learn to compile data into professional reports for Animal Care staff. The role also includes completing quizzes, training, and a final reflection paper.

Requirements

Student or recent graduate (2 years or less) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine or related program.
3.0 or above accumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale preferred.
TB test required.
Ability to balance multiple assignments successfully.
Proficient on Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.
Able to use tablet to input data.
Strong computer skills, ability to work with pivot tables and excel spreadsheets.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Must be professional in appearance and behavior at all times.
Ability to work in varied weather conditions (i.e. extreme heat, cold, rain, snow).
Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays (July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day) required.
Subject to BMV check.
Subject to Criminal Background check.

Nice To Haves

Prior animal care or animal welfare knowledge and / or experience preferred.
Knowledge of and / or experience with conducting formal observations on zoological animals is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Develop ethograms, sampling rules, and recording techniques.
Apply observation concepts to answer specific animal behavior questions.
Receive training on Scanimals, CZA’s general animal observation program.
Independently conduct small projects focused on activity budgets, habitat usage, conspecific or enrichment interactions.
Compile data into professional reports for Animal Care staff.
Complete quizzes, training, and a final reflection paper.