The Denver Zoo Animal Care Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring zoo professionals to gain hands-on experience in various animal care departments. Whether you’re a student or a recent graduate, this internship program provides an invaluable chance to immerse yourself in the daily operations of a renowned zoological institution.

Departments Offering Internship Opportunities

The Denver Zoo’s Animal Care Internship Program encompasses several departments, each offering a distinct learning experience:

1. Hoofstock: Interns in this department will assist with the care and management of hoofed animals, such as bison, zebras, and antelopes.
2. Tropical Discovery: Interns in this department will work with a diverse array of species, including reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals, found in the zoo’s tropical habitats.
3. Other Departments: Depending on staff capacity, the zoo may also offer internships in other animal care departments, providing a well-rounded exposure to the zoo’s operations.

Time Commitment and Schedules

The Denver Zoo Animal Care Internship Program offers both full-time and part-time options to accommodate the needs of various applicants:

• Full-time Internships: These internships require 32 to 40 hours per week, completed within 12 to 16 weeks, for a maximum of 640 hours.
• Part-time Internships: Part-time internships require at least 200 hours, completed within 6 months, not to exceed 384 hours.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

To be eligible for the Denver Zoo Animal Care Internship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Currently enrolled in a relevant college program or have graduated within the last two years
• At least 18 years of age
• Provide proof of a valid negative TB test prior to the start of the internship
• Apply online with a cover letter explaining their interest and goals for the internship

Additional Considerations

• Housing is not provided by the Denver Zoo during the internship program.
• Letters of recommendation may be submitted but are not required.
• The internship program is highly competitive, and not all applicants will be selected for an interview.
• The Denver Zoo is a drug-free workplace and conducts background checks and drug screens prior to the start of internships.

Application Process and Timeline

The Denver Zoo Animal Care Internship Program follows a specific application timeline:

• Internship opportunities are posted on the Denver Zoo careers website according to a yearly schedule.
• Applicants have three weeks to submit their applications from the time the internship opportunity is posted.
• Offers are made in early December for spring internships, early April for summer internships, and early August for fall internships.

Compensation and Benefits

The Denver Zoo Animal Care Internship Program is a non-paid internship. However, interns do accrue some sick time over the course of their internship.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Denver Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds.

Contact Information

For more information about the Denver Zoo Animal Care Internship Program, please visit the zoo’s website at www.denverzoo.org/internships.

Reference:

1. Denver Zoo Internships/Jobs
2. Summer Animal Care Intern – Hoofstock, Denver, Colorado – Denver Zoo
3. Denver Zoo Animal Care Internship Program
4. Zoo Internships – Global Down Syndrome Foundation
5. Internships – Denver Zoo