Are you a college student interested in learning about the role zoos play in conservation? Join the Houston Zoo for our summer internship program and discover how every individual can take part in saving animals in the wild. We encourage applications from students who may not traditionally see themselves represented in the zoo field, and we welcome students whose degrees may be outside of the traditional biology or zoology tracks.
This opportunity is open to currently enrolled undergraduate students who will be returning to college as a full- time sophomore, junior, or senior for the fall 2022 semester. We’d love to hear from you if you are:
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Curious about conservation education and the general operations of a zoo.
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Interested in getting hands-on field experience and connecting with conservation organizations
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Eager to learn from top conservationists around the world while gaining a deeper understanding of the Houston Zoo’s local and global work to save wildlife.
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Ten interns will be selected to train, learn, and collaborate at the Houston Zoo for 8 weeks from June 6, 2022 –July 29, 2022; participation in the entire 8-week, in-person program is required. Interns will receive a $3,400 stipend to be paid in three installments to offset student expenses. Time will be split between the Houston Zoo and regional conservation partner locations; transportation to and from these partners will be provided.
Throughout the 8 weeks, interns will:
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Explore the elements that go into a zoo-based conservation organization and learn from various teams at the Zoo (Conservation Education, Development, Marketing/PR, etc.)
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Practice local conservation techniques with field partners around the Houston area
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Learn about action-oriented conservation campaigns from Houston Zoo global partners
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Participate in networking opportunities with conservation professionals and Houston Zoo Staff
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Collaborate on a culminating project, synthesizing information learned over the entire summer
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Enhance their teamwork, leadership, and communication skills
Requirements:
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Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student.
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Available to work June 6, 2022 – July 29, 2022 with variable hours (primarily Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM). Some evenings, weekends, or overnights required, including one camping trip.
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Commitment to abide by all Houston Zoo policies and procedures, including safety protocol and Covid-19 vaccination requirement.
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Comfortable with exposure to outdoor weather, such as heat, humidity, and rain.
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Responsible for own housing and transportation to and from the Houston Zoo.
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Must be able to lift up to 50lbs, maneuver uneven terrain, and traverse 1-2 miles without issue.
Application Process:
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Submit a complete online application including resume and cover letter by February 28, 2022.
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Zoom interviews will be scheduled for March 14 – 25th. You must be available during this time frame.
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If selected, you will need to submit documentation of full COVID-19 vaccination as well as negative TB test result by program start date.
