Department: Park Services - Zoo Intern/Unpaid Position
Position Summary Interns will gain valuable work experience while working with keepers to help in the daily care and operations of the 160 animals at the zoo. Daily operations include diet prep, feeding, cleaning, assisting in husbandry care, light maintenance and construction, animal observations, and enrichment. The Zoo Intern performs duties under the direction of the Animal and Park Curator. Internships are completed while the park is open to the public and will also include assisting in educational presentations and special events. During the course of the internship, you will be required to complete 250 hours over 10 to 12 weeks. You will also need to complete an animal behavior research project and one final project for the zoo.
*This is an unpaid Internship. Uniform shirts/sweatshirts are provided. No housing is provided.* Essential Responsibilities Assists with daily care of animals. Keeps accurate records for all animals. Provides enrichment for animals. Interacts with customers and guests in a professional manner. Complies with all safety and loss prevention policies. Informs supervisor of any unsafe conditions or hazardous work procedures. Completes all additional duties as prescribed by management. Assists other Park District employees when needed. Supports DTPD's Mission Statement by providing excellent service to the community. Supervisory Responsibilities – This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Marginal Functions/Responsibilities – Other non-essential duties as assigned.
Communication & Customer Service Must be able to follow directions and communicate in English both verbally and in writing. Must have the ability to read and understand materials printed in English. Develops and maintains positive and effective working relationships with coworkers to promote high morale and enthusiasm. Provides excellent customer service to both internal and external customers. Communicates matters of importance in a timely manner. Makes recommendations to management for improvements and efficiencies. Must possess good problem-solving skills and act rationally and calmly in high-stress or emergency situations. Represents the Dundee Township Park District in a professional manner. Safety & Risk Management Maintains a working knowledge of all general and departmental-specific safety rules. Uses material handling equipment or staff assistance when lifting and/or moving objects 50 pounds or heavier. Reports any work-related injuries to supervisor promptly. Immediately reports all accidents and unsafe conditions to the supervisor. Attends all required safety program and in-service education meetings. Corrects unsafe conditions, if possible, and alerts co-workers to potential unsafe conditions. Instructs co-workers, when necessary, on safety procedures or precautions. Qualifications Must be a student or a recent graduate of college (within the last two years) of an accredited university pursuing a degree in Zoology or a related field. Preferably, two years of undergraduate coursework. A valid driver's license is required.
Capabilities include: Physical work such as lifting 50 lbs., frequent bending, and stooping. Standing for extended periods of time. Working in an outdoor environment under any weather conditions. Ability to use and maintain zoo equipment and tools. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Good physical condition, sufficient strength, and mobility required. Mechanical aptitude required, including the use of tools, equipment, and machinery. Ability to speak and understand Spanish strongly preferred. Knowledge and skills in technology, or the ability to learn. Ability to learn additional software and systems required for business transactions. Reading, writing, speaking, and understanding the English language. Possesses good problem-solving skills and the capacity to act rationally and calmly in high-stress or emergency situations. Ability to work a varied schedule including some nights and weekends as required. Ability to pay meticulous attention to detail. Ability to execute the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Hours Standards This is a Seasonal Internship. Zoo Interns are required to select a set shift for the duration of the internship. Rotating Shifts are 7 a.m. to noon, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Depending on needs, the internship may require evening hours and will include weekends and holiday hours.
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