OCIC Internship

INTERNSHIP POSITION OVERVIEW

Interns will be able to work alongside keepers in the day-to-day care of Eastern indigo snakes, striped newts, and other Florida Native reptiles. Interns will learn about animal husbandry, behavior, dietary requirements, animal restraint, and species management.

Duties:

Interns are supervised by animal care staff; however, with some specific projects, interns are expected to have the ability to work autonomously following directions. In addition to assisting with cleaning, interns will have the opportunity to be involved with public presentations, diet preparation, animal feeding, and special projects, including participation in research programs. Interns will be exposed to various animals, including Eastern indigo snakes, striped newts, and other Florida native reptiles. Assignments and opportunities available to interns are based on individual progress during the internship.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

Interns will be able to learn about animal husbandry, behavior, dietary requirements, animal restraint, and species management.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

Provide support to the OCIC staff in daily animal care duties. Allow qualified individuals the opportunity to gain professional hands-on experience. Promote an opportunity to gain a strong understanding of potential careers in animal husbandry, research, and conservation.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

OCIC interns are supervised by animal care staff; however, with some specific projects, interns are expected to have the ability to work autonomously following directions. In addition to assisting with cleaning, interns will have the opportunity to be involved with public presentations, diet preparation, animal feeding, and special projects, including participation in research programs. Interns will be exposed to a wide variety of species. Assignments and opportunities available to an intern are based on individual progress during the internship.

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Upperclassmen and recent college graduates are preferred.
• Must be able to work 16-24 hours/week.
• Must be able to work approximately 8 hours per day on assigned days.
• Must provide proof of negative TB test and submit to drug testing before the start of the internship.
• Must be able to work efficiently and safely around live animals.

Physical and Environmental:

This position involves a lot of walking and lifting. Time outdoors is expected in all different weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, or dust. It may also involve considerable physical exertion, such as regularly lifting, reaching, assuming awkward positions, repetitive motions, and lifting and/or moving heavy objects (up to 50 pounds). Due to the nature of this environment, interns will have some public contact requiring considerable communication skills.

To Apply:

• Complete Online Internship Application
• The OCIC will contact eligible applicants for a phone interview after the application deadline.

Internship Dates and Deadline to Apply:

• Fall Term – The deadline to apply is July 15th
• Spring Term – The deadline to apply is November 15th
• Summer Term – The deadline to apply is March 15th

For questions about our internship programs, please email nickc@centralfloridazoo.org

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