Browse Intern

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

6d•$15•Onsite

About The Position

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is seeking an intern for the Nutrition Department to assist in browse collection and distribution for animals at the Zoo and Wildlife Safari Park. The Nutrition Department at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is comprised of a Nutrition Laboratory, a centralized Animal Commissary, and a Browse Team. Together these areas work to make sure that every animal at the Zoo and Wildlife Safari Park is provided with a nutritionally complete diet that encourages engagement in natural feeding behaviors. The Browse Team is responsible for collecting and distributing browse to meet the specialized dietary and behavioral needs of all the Zoo’s browsing herbivores, as well as preserving adequate browse to supply these animals through the winter months.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
Must have effective time management skills for working in a fast-paced and flexible work environment.
Must possess strong communication skills
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 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. animal science, biology, nutrition, zoology, horticulture, etc.) is preferred.
Must be motivated to continue expanding knowledge base as it applies animal nutrition.
This position may involve considerable physical exertion, including lifting of heavy objects (50+ pounds) and/or assuming awkward positions.
Interns will interact with the public frequently throughout their internship and are expected to always exhibit professionalism and exceptional customer service.
Must submit Cover Letter and Resume to Paycom at the time you apply.
Interns must provide their availability at the time of their interview.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working at an AZA institution is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Develop, work on, and present an internship project aligned with the research needs of the Nutrition department.
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 tasks as assigned, including but not limited to:
Assist with planting, caring for, and harvesting from approved browse harvesting locations.
Learn to reliably identify toxic and approved species of browse.
Assist distributing browse to animal areas.
Learn about various browse preservation techniques and assist with preserving and storing browse through freezing or ensiling.
Help maintain records of browse activities and assist with browse-related nutritional studies as-needed.
Follow safety guidelines and always demonstrate safe working practices.
Communicate frequently and in a professional manner with supervisor and team members.
Attend shifts on time and as scheduled.
Follow detailed instructions.