Asian Highlands Intern

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium•Omaha, NE

13d•$15•Onsite

About The Position

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is seeking an intern in Asian Highlands to assist with daily feeding, cleaning, and general care of red pandas and sloth bears. Interns in this area will also learn about care for lions, Amur tigers, and snow leopards, but will not be in direct contact with these animals or near their holding areas. Asian Highlands features animals from a diverse range of habitats in Asia, from the grassland foothills of Northern India to the Himalayan Mountains.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
Must follow safety guidelines and always demonstrate safe working practices.
Must have effective time management skills for working in a fast-paced and flexible work environment.
Must possess strong communication skills; Communicate frequently and in a professional manner with supervisor and team members.
Must work well with others and have the ability to work independently.
Must be team-oriented and willing to work with other interns, volunteers, and staff members to further not only the goals of the Department but also of the Zoo’s Mission Statement.
Must attend shifts on time and as scheduled.
Must have the ability to follow detailed instructions.
Candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, and may be required to offer proof of a negative skin tuberculosis test.
Interns must be currently enrolled in, or have recently graduated from, a college or university.
A minimum of one year of coursework in a major field of study to be applied during the internship (e.g. biology, zoology, animal behavior, etc.) is preferred.
Must be motivated to continue expanding knowledge base as it applies red pandas, bears, and big cats.
Prospective interns can only submit ONE application per person specific to their top their choice but may indicate up to two other areas that interest them on their application.
Must submit Cover Letter and Resume to Paycom at the time you apply.
Applications without these materials will not be considered.
Your cover letter should include clearly defined career goals including how interning in the area you selected as your top choice will help you achieve your goals.
Interns must provide their availability at the time of their interview.

Nice To Haves

Training and/or experience, through previous internships or employment, that demonstrates the knowledge and skills required to work with large cats, bears or other large animals, is preferred.
Knowledge of bear, red panda, and big cat natural history, biology, captive husbandry, operant conditioning, and conservation issues preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop, work on, and present an internship project aligned with the research needs of the animal care staff in Asian Highlands.
Attend weekly professional development sessions.
Complete learning goals on internship checklist.
Participate in and complete a mid-point and final evaluation.
Assist in and complete assigned tasks as assigned, including but not limited to:
Cleaning and general maintenance of the exhibits and buildings, including raking and weeding.
Daily care of animal collection.
Recordkeeping.
Animal enrichment.
Monitoring behavior and changes in animal health.
Diet preparation and feeding.
Assist with Keeper Talks for Zoo guests.