Animal Care Intern - Waters Edge Team

Kansas City Zoo • Kansas City, MO

327d • $14

About The Position

Under the direction and alongside trained animal care staff, the Animal Care Intern will learn to perform routine work assignments involving the care of Zoo & Aquarium animals, as well as maintenance of habitats, enclosures, service, and animal holding areas. This position performs related work as required. This position will work with the Water's Edge Team, which is responsible for the daily husbandry of polar bears, California sea lions, southern sea otters, North American river otters, five species of penguins (King, Gentoo, Chinstrap, Macaroni, Humboldt), and trumpeter swans. This is a seasonal position, working 40 hours per week, typically running May 1st - September 1st. Seasonal start and end dates can vary based upon individual availability and team needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
• Completing coursework for a degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field preferred.
• Basic knowledge of animal behavior.
• Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Must have valid driver's license.
• Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to manage stress and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, employees, or the public.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
• Must pass a background and drug screening.

Responsibilities

• Assists with daily maintenance of habitats and holding areas, including learning to clean habitats, holding areas, and staff areas.
• Learning to perform minor repairs and improvements of habitats, under supervision.
• Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager.
• Assisting with lawn care and other horticultural maintenance.
• Assists with the daily care of assigned team's animals, including learning and assisting with basic husbandry activities, such as preparing diets, creating/implementing enrichment activities, training techniques, etc.
• Learning about the daily observation of animal health and wellbeing.
• Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and staff, including learning to perform or assist with various keeper chats and animal shows.
• Engaging with visitors to answer questions about Zoo & Aquarium and animals.
• Learning to work professionally as part of a team.

Benefits

• $14.50 per hour starting pay

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Industry: Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
• Education Level: High school or GED