Herpetology Intern (Fall 2021)

Fall 2021 Term:

Zoo Atlanta's Herpetology Department plays an integral role in the Zoo's mission by providing informative, educational and engaging experiences; being respectful and responsible stewards of animals and the physical and financial assets entrusted to us; and engaging in related conservation activities and research. The Herpetology Department serves as one of the Zoo’s Centers of Excellence.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This voluntary internship program provides qualified individuals with professional experience in the daily care of the departments’ animals and the opportunity to support animal care staff. The main role of interns is to work directly with animal care staff to keep areas clean, thus helping contribute to the welfare of the animals. Interns also have the opportunity to and are expected to participate in ongoing captive research programs.

RESPONSIBILIITES: Herpetology department interns are supervised by animal care staff within the department, however with some specific projects interns are expected to have the ability to work autonomously following direction. In addition to assisting with cleaning, some interns may have the opportunity to be involved with public presentations, diet preparation, animal feeding and special projects, including the creation of enrichment items and participation in research programs. Interns will be exposed to a wide variety of species, including amphibians, turtles and tortoises, lizards, and a large variety of snakes. Interns are expected to be comfortable working in proximity to these animals, however are prohibited from any interaction with venomous species. Assignments and opportunities that are available to a Herpetology Department intern are based on individual progress during the internship.

OBJECTIVES:

• Provide support to Herpetology Department staff in daily animal care duties

• Enhance productivity and efficiency of the Herpetology Department team

• Allow qualified individuals the opportunity to gain professional experience as a keeper intern at a world-class zoological facility

• Provide an opportunity to gain a strong understanding of potential careers in animal husbandry, research, and conservation.

• Must be 18 years of age or older (Upper Classman and recent college graduates are preferred)

• Must be able to work 8–32 hours/week

• Must be able to work a minimum of 4 hours per day on assigned days

• Must be able to work quietly, efficiently and safely around live animals

• Must provide proof of negative TB test and be willing to submit to a background check

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be able to be on your feet for up to 4 hours at a time and lift up to 30 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Must be able to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.