The Mammal department (Carnivore) is offering an internship for undergraduate or graduate students working towards a degree inZoology, Wildlife Management, Biology, and other related fields.

PurposeThe Carnivore Intern assists in the care, maintenance, enrichment and observation of animals in the carnivorecollection.

Key Responsibilities- Assist the keepers during the opening and closing of animal areas- Assist with cleaning of animal areas (raking, hosing, scrubbing floors, washing dishes)- Assist the keepers in maintaining the landscape in and around the exhibit areas- Assist the keepers in creating, implementing and/or researching animal enrichment- Assistance with all other projects and duties as assigned- Educate and interact with the public, answer questions about the animal collection and the Zoo in general- Observe and oversee the interaction between the public and the exhibit animals.- Assist in providing appropriate food and water for animals- Assist keepers in animal observations- Assistance with all other projects and duties as assigned

Reporting Relationships and Supervision(Department: Mammal/Carnivore)Jonathon Hankins, Hoofstock & Carnivore Area Supervisor Alexandria Sharkey, Carnivore Keeper

DurationMinimum of 8 weeks, maximum of 12 weeks

Qualifications- Must be an undergraduate enrolled in an accredited college pursuing a degree Zoology, Wildlife Management,Biology or a related major- Internship requires a minimum commitment of 20 hours- Applicants for this position must submit an Application Packet, and are required to submit to a criminalbackground check as well as show recent proof of a current TB test.

Desired Skills- Ability to perform duties without direct supervision- Ability to function as team with both paid and volunteer staff- Ability to follow both oral and written direction- Ability to adhere to the schedule agreed upon- Ability to interact positively with the public, especially to give them information about the animals and the zoo- Ability to responsibly use and maintain zoo equipment and tools- Willingness to work with a large variety of animals- Ability to lift 30 pounds- Ability to perform duties outdoors in all weather conditions, as needed

Benefits to Intern- Gain professional, hands-on experience at an AZA accredited Zoo- Meet new and exciting people- Gaining knowledge of Nashville Zoo’s history- Ambassador for animal and conservation education- Sense of pride in community resource- Enhance personal creativity and portfolio- Volunteer hours for organizational benefits- Letters of reference for future job opportunities

Note: Nashville Zoo Internships are unpaid. We are unable to provide housing or reimbursement for travel expenses.Academic requirements for institution credit are the responsibility of the student intern to fulfill. Nashville Zoo willmake every effort to support the student in their academic goals as they relate to the internship position outlined in theprovided position description.

Please Note: Due to strict animal husbandry guidelines and safety issues, there is no animal contact or inside exhibit work with the animals in the Zoo. Remember, this is for their safety and well-being as well as yours.

Submission Details:Internship Application and questionsResume*Cover letter explaining:- Applicant’s career goals and how this internship will help achieve those goals- Relevant skills, activities, experience and/or classes- School requirements for internship credit (if applicable)- Start and end dates, and days of availability.Two letters of recommendationCollege or University requirements