Conservation Internship

Toledo Zoo•Toledo, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium's Conservation Department is seeking Part-Time Conservation Interns for its T.U.R.T.L.E. (Teens Understanding Research Techniques and Learning Ecology) program. Interns will support ongoing conservation initiatives, including fieldwork such as surveys and radio-telemetry for specific turtle species (Copperbelly Watersnakes, Blanding’s Turtles, Spotted Turtles, and Box Turtles), biodiversity assessments in restored habitats, and captive husbandry for head-started species. The role involves extensive travel within the state for fieldwork, based out of Toledo. This is a temporary, non-exempt position reporting to the Director of Vertebrate Conservation, expected to run from late May to mid-August 2026, with a potential for involvement in a sturgeon release in October. Housing is not provided.

Requirements

Current student or recent graduate of partnering schools (TPS and Maumee).
Willingness and ability to work long hours in inclement weather (heat, cold, rain, etc.) with exposure to mosquitoes, biting flies, ticks, and noxious plants.
Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
Dedication to accurate and thorough data collection.
Self-motivated with a positive attitude.
Respectful and professional in interactions with other team members, partners, and the public.
Ability to lift 50lb and traverse irregular terrain (e.g., wetlands).
Must have the ability to lift 50lb and traverse irregular terrain (e.g., wetlands).
The Toledo Zoo is a drug-free workplace, including marijuana.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with reptiles and amphibians, specifically turtles and snakes.
Experience with ecological surveying techniques and/or radio-telemetry.
Previous work with teenage volunteers or community outreach.