Wildlife Care & Operations Internship

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance • San Diego, CA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives. HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION This internship offers hands-on experience supporting the daily care and wellbeing of wildlife, including food preparation, feeding, cleaning enclosures, and providing enrichment to promote welfare. Interns will observe and document wildlife behavior, participate in briefings and trainings, and gain valuable knowledge of wildlife care practices, welfare standards, and zoo operations. In addition to supporting wildlife care, interns will assist with operational tasks that keep the park running smoothly. This includes maintaining clean and safe guest-facing areas, supporting opening and closing routines, and collaborating with departments like maintenance, horticulture, education, and guest services to gain a broader understanding of how cross-departmental efforts contribute to the success of a zoological institution.

Requirements

• Training and/or experience that would demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills listed.
• Desire to pursue a career in the zoological field.
• Communicate effectively (verbal and written).
• Able to learn the proper methods and procedures for hygienic animal care, feeding and handling.
• Able to deal tactfully and courteously with the public.

Responsibilities

• Support wildlife care staff with routine husbandry tasks such as food preparation, feeding, cleaning enclosures, and providing enrichment to promote animal welfare.
• Observe wildlife behaviors and conditions throughout the day, accurately documenting and reporting any changes or concerns to the supervising wildlife care team.
• Actively participate in educational opportunities, including trainings, briefings, and team discussions to expand knowledge of Wildlife care practices, welfare standards, and zoo operations.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed