Aquarium Birds Intern

SCHEDULE: Each Internship session, Spring, Summer, and Fall, is13 weeks long. All interns must be available during this time.
•Orientation: First day of each semester from 9am-4pm. All interns must be available to attend orientation in-person.
•Weekly Schedule: Must be available to work28-32 hours per week; unpaid. Interns must be available to attend Tuesday OR Thursday afternoon professional development sessions starting the second week of their internship. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays. Schedules will be determined before internships begin by working with the Volunteer Manager and animal area supervisors.

DESCRIPTION: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is seeking an intern for the Aquarium Birds department to assist with daily feeding, cleaning, and general care of three exhibits in the Aquarium. This includes, but is not limited to, three species of penguins, three species of alcids, and one toucan. This position reports directly to the Bird Supervisor.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
•Develop, work on, and present an internship project aligned with the research needs of the Aquarium Birds department.
•Attend weekly professional development sessions.
•Complete learning goals on internship checklist.
•Participate in and complete a mid-point and final evaluation.
•Assist in and complete tasks as assigned, including but not limited to:
o Cleaning and general maintenance of the exhibits and building.
o Daily care of animal collection.
o Recordkeeping.
o Animal enrichment.
o Monitoring behavior and changes in animal health.
o Diet preparation and feeding.
o Other duties may be assigned.
•Must be at least 18 years old.
•Must follow safety guidelines and always demonstrate safe working practices.
•Must have effective time management skills for working in a fast-paced and flexible work environment.
•Must possess strong communication skills; Communicate frequently and in a professional manner with supervisor and team members.
•Must work well with others and have the ability to work independently.
•Must be team-oriented and willing to work with other interns, volunteers, and staff members to further not only the goals of the Department but also of the Zoo’s Mission Statement.
•Must attend shifts on time and as scheduled.
•Must have the ability to follow detailed instructions.
•Must complete a TB Test before beginning internship.

EXPERIENCE: Previous experience working with birds or at an AZA institution is preferred, but not required.

EDUCATION: Interns must be currently enrolled in, or have recently graduated from, a college or university. A minimum of one year of coursework in a major field of study to be applied during the internship (e.g. biology, zoology, animal behavior, etc.) is preferred. Knowledge of aquatic bird natural history, biology, captive husbandry, and conservation issues preferred. Must be motivated to continue expanding knowledge base as it applies to aquatic birds.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: This position may involve considerable physical exertion, including lifting of heavy objects (50+ pounds)and/or assuming awkward positions. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consider these physical requirements before applying for an internship in this area. Interns that are not able to meet the physical requirements for the position may be reassigned to another department.

Learning Outcomes

None listed