We are excited to have you at the Fort Wayne Zoo!
The Fort Wayne Zoo Internship Program offers students the opportunity to become actively involved in our mission of connecting kids and animals, strengthening families, and inspiring people to care. Interns can enhance their knowledge and gain experience in various administrative, animal care, and education roles.
Externship Opportunities
Veterinary Technician Externship
Description:
The purpose of the veterinary technician externship is to introduce veterinary technician students to the specialty of zoo veterinary technology. The extern will assist the veterinarian and technician daily with procedures, treatments, hospital maintenance, etc.
Duties:
- Assist veterinary staff with routine procedures (immobilizations, physical exams, treatments, etc) as well as emergency procedures.
- Assist veterinary technician with lab work (parasitology, urinalysis, in-house blood work, preparing samples for outside laboratories).
- Assist with hospital maintenance (equipment cleaning, sterilization, inventory, etc).
- Care for animals (cleaning and feeding) in hospital holding/quarantine when needed.
- Enter data into MedArks program and file records.
- Dispense medications under supervision of the veterinary technician.
- Assist with necropsies.
- Responsibilities will be dependent on the applicant’s experience and skills.
Requirements:
- Students should be enrolled in an accredited veterinary technology program with a long-term interest in zoo/wildlife medicine. Experience with exotic species is preferred but not required.
- Students should be willing to learn, eager to create and complete projects and have a respect for wild animals. Students should also work well with others. It is preferred that the student have some previous animal experience.
- Applicants must be available to work at least 30 hrs/week (40 hrs/week preferred) and must be able to work a flexible schedule.
- A negative tuberculin test within the past year is required. Current rabies, hepatitis B, and tetanus vaccinations are recommended.
Availability:
Externships are available all year. The largest volume and diversity of clinical procedures occur in the winter months. Externships will last a minimum of 4-6 weeks, depending on the student’s requirements for school.
Compensation:
Externships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Externs will work as volunteers for the duration of their externship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Veterinary Medicine Externship
Description:
Support the zoo’s veterinary department by assisting with animal care, procedures, and hospital maintenance. The externship is designed to introduce the student to the field of zoo/exotic veterinary medicine. The extern will report directly to the zoo’s veterinarian.
Duties:
- Assist veterinary staff with routine procedures (immobilizations, physical exams, treatments, etc) as well as emergency procedures, with emphasis on duties performed by the veterinarian.
- Assist veterinary technicians with hospital and equipment cleaning and maintenance as needed.
- Assist keeper staff with daily care of animals housed at the veterinary hospital or in quarantine as needed.
- Work on other tasks or special projects as needed.
- Responsibilities will be dependent on the applicant’s experience and skills.
Requirements:
- Applicants must be enrolled in Veterinary School.
- Applicants should have a long-term interest in exotic animals, and be experienced and comfortable with dealing with domestic species. Experience with exotic species is preferred, but not required.
- Applicants must be available to work at least 30 hrs/wk (40 hrs/wk preferred) and must be able to work a flexible schedule.
- A negative tuberculin skin test must be performed within one year of the start date.
- Current rabies, hepatitis B, and tetanus vaccinations are recommended.
Availability:
Externships are available all year. The largest volume and diversity of clinical procedures occur in the winter months. Externships will last a minimum of 4-6 weeks, depending on the student’s requirements for school.
Compensation:
Externships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Externs will work as volunteers for the duration of their externship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s school/college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Please make note of the applications deadlines and requested availability below. These dates are approximate and subject to change to meet supervisor needs.
Spring Session: Applications are open October 1st-November 30th. Internships are scheduled to begin at the end of January and completed in April. Apply Here.
Summer Session: Applications are open February 1st-March 31st. Internships are scheduled to begin at the end of May and completed in August. Apply Here.
Fall Session: Applications are open June 1st-July 31st. Internships are scheduled to begin at the end of September and completed in December. Apply Here.
Media Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Zoo Communications Department with all aspects of video and photographic communications and contribute to planning and executing communication projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo Communication Department, which may include:
- Film video and shoot photographs throughout the zoo including animals and guests that can be used for print and social media.
- Assist in the end-to-end process from storyboarding to logistics to shooting to editing and publishing.
- Catalog videos and photos on Zoo Graphic Drive.
- Visually document special events during zoo season.
- Assist Communication, Education and Development staff with programs and events as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in visual arts, communication, or related fields.
- Proficient in the use of Adobe Creative Suite.
- Proficient with social media such as Facebook live, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, & Instagram.
- Must be outgoing, adaptable, and able to plan and carry out a variety of activities with minimal supervision.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Communication interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday, or irregular hours may be required. May through August is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through April. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is only available as a summer opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Communication Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Zoo Communication Department with public relations, web site, and social media projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo Communication Department, which may include:
- Review, update and assist in website development increasing user interactions.
- Assist Communication department with preparing content for zoo’s social media channels and blog.
- Assist zoo with social media research.
- Complete special projects to support zoo’s communications program.
- Assist with writing media releases and articles for zoo publications.
- Perform other duties as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in communication, marketing or related fields.
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, internet applications and content management systems.
- Knowledge in website management and development.
- Proficient with social media such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, & Instagram.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Communication interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday, or irregular hours may be required. May through August is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through April. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is only available as a summer opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
Animal Care Specialist Internship
Description:
The purpose of the Animal Care Specialist internship is to introduce students to the daily care of exotic animals. For more information on zoo keeping as a career, click here.
Duties:
- Daily care and maintenance of animals in the area to which you are assigned; including feeding, cleaning, and all other duties necessary to maintain animal health.
- General maintenance of zoo grounds, which may include exhibit maintenance, weeding, mowing, trash cleanup, restroom maintenance, and other duties necessary to maintain cleanliness and safety within the zoo.
- Interact with zoo visitors as needed to answer their questions.
- Collect data through animal observation and interpret data as needed.
- Learn about the zoo’s animals through books, magazines, journals, discussions with keepers, and personal observation.
Requirements:
- Minimally, applicants must be high school seniors or college students with an interest in wildlife.
- Applicants must have the ability to work with minimal supervision but be able to work well with others on the animal care crew.
- Applicants should be willing to learn, eager to create and complete projects and have a respect for wild animals. It is preferred that the student have some previous animal experience.
- Applicant must possess ability to participate in physically demanding work, including the ability to lift 50 pounds.
- Applicants must able to work a flexible schedule, which may include weekends and holidays.
- Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license.
- A negative tuberculin test is required if working with primates; testing is provided by the zoo. A current tetanus vaccination is recommended for all interns.
Availability:
Spring Session: applications are open October 1st-November 30th and are scheduled to begin and end January-April.
Summer Session: applications are open February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Fall Session: applications are open June 1st-July 31st and are scheduled to begin and end September-December.
Interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekends, holidays or irregular hours may be required. Internships should be completed normally within 4-12 weeks. The duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is available as a summer, fall, and spring opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have any questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@fwzoo.com.
Education Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Zoo Education Department with programming and ongoing projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo Education Department, which may include:
- On-site and/or outreach program development and presentation
- Development and/or maintenance of education program materials
- Providing assistance to zoo volunteers in educational presentations
- Duties may vary with season.
Requirements:
- College student who has completed at least one year toward undergraduate degree in education, biology, zoology, environmental science or related field.
- Experience teaching children and youth in a formal or recreational setting (preferred).
- Demonstrated interest in zoo education.
- Must be outgoing, adaptable, and able to plan and carry out a variety of activities with minimal supervision.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
- Ability to stand for extended periods of time in various weather conditions with or without accommodations.
- Ability to work both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to extreme temperatures and inclement weather conditions; the environment may include wet, icy, or muddy conditions.
Availability:
Spring Session: applications are open October 1st-November 30th and are scheduled to begin and end January-April.
Summer Session: applications are open February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Fall Session: applications are open June 1st-July 31st and are scheduled to begin and end September-December.
Interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekends, holidays or irregular hours may be required. Internships should be completed normally within 4-12 weeks. The duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is available as a summer, fall, and spring opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have any questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@fwzoo.com.
Environmental Quality Internship
Description:
A limited number of Environmental Quality (volunteer) Internships are available at the Fort Wayne Zoo. The purpose of the Environmental Quality Internship is to introduce students enrolled in bachelor’s level science degrees (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or related fields) to the specialty of Zoo Environmental Quality Analysis. Candidates with diverse backgrounds and an interest in environmental testing are encouraged to apply. The intern will assist the Environmental Quality Technician daily with procedures, testing, analysis and data management of zoonotic environmental samples. The intern will work closely with the Environmental Quality Technician who will serve as mentor. The intern is expected to gain valuable professional skills as they explore their passion for analytical environmental testing.
Duties:
- Assist environmental quality staff with routine environmental testing procedures (testing water, soil, air quality etc).
- Assist environmental quality staff with obtaining environmental samples as needed.
- Enter data and maintain accurate analytical records.
- Assist with routine maintenance, calibration, and cleaning of environmental quality instrumentation.
- Assist with laboratory maintenance such as cleaning organizing, sterilization, and inventory.
- Attend departmental meetings and depending on the candidate’s abilities, may also present during meetings.
- Responsibilities will be dependent on the applicant’s experience and skills. Other duties may be assigned.
Requirements:
- Minimally, applicants must be currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in a science field, with a long-term interest in environmental quality or environmental testing. Candidates enrolled in an accredited program are preferred.
- Preference will be given to candidates with previous analytical experience. Completed course work will be considered acceptable.
- Candidate should be willing to learn, eager to create, proficient at completing projects and work well with others.
- Applicants must be available to complete at least 120 hours normallywithin 4-12 weeks. But time can be adjusted to individual needs.
- A negative tuberculin test within the past year is required. Current rabies, hepatitis B, and tetanus vaccinations are recommended.
Availability:
Spring Session: applications are open October 1st-November 30th and are scheduled to begin and end January-April.
Summer Session: applications are open February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Fall Session: applications are open June 1st-July 31st and are scheduled to begin and end September-December.
Interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekends, holidays or irregular hours may be required. Internships should be completed normally within 4-12 weeks. The duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is available as a summer, fall, and spring opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have any questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@fwzoo.com.
Volunteer Management Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Zoo Volunteer Programs Manager and learn all aspects of the volunteer management cycle, as well as gain an understanding of the role volunteers play in a nonprofit.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Volunteer Department, which may include:
- Review, update and assist in daily recordkeeping of volunteer assignments and service hours.
- Assist with daily volunteer activities, providing clear direction and outline of responsibilities for assigned roles, and provide regular evaluation of activities.
- Utilize volunteer management computer software to maintain volunteer records, produce a newsletter, and communicate weekly with all volunteers about upcoming opportunities.
- Orchestrate recruitment, screening, and application process of new volunteers and interns.
- Assist with formal training and in-depth orientation for volunteers.
- Assist in developing new volunteer opportunities by creative brainstorming, exploring ways to further the Zoo’s mission, support a positive guest experience, and collaborate with Zoo staff on support needs.
- Research database information and follow-up with lapsed or inactive volunteers for retention purposes.
- Perform other duties as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in Human Relations, Management, or related fields.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, internet applications and content management systems.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, and careful attention to detail.
- Ability to maintain a calm and friendly attitude in a busy environment.
- Proficient with coordinating Facebook group postings
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
- Previous leadership and/or volunteering experience is a plus.
Availability:
Spring Session: applications are open October 1st-November 30th and are scheduled to begin and end January-April.
Summer Session: applications are open February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Fall Session: applications are open June 1st-July 31st and are scheduled to begin and end September-December.
Interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekends, holidays or irregular hours may be required. Internships should be completed normally within 4-12 weeks. The duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is available as a summer, fall, and spring opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have any questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@fwzoo.com.
Zoo Capital Project Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Zoo Capital Project Department with capital improvement and internal development projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo’s Project and Facility Department, which may include:
- Support capital improvement projects by attending design and development meetings, interacting with various vendors and contractors, and monitoring of project health and status.
- Assist in managing the day-to-day activities of projects, including assisting with project responsibilities and schedules.
- Assist with research for new project and improvement ideas.
- Complete special projects to support zoo’s CIP program.
- Capture detailed meeting and notes and minutes when requested.
- Perform other duties as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in architecture, interior design, project management, engineering, or related fields.
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, SketchUp, and Adobe Photoshop.
- Knowledge in project management processes and methodologies.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Spring Session: applications are open October 1st-November 30th and are scheduled to begin and end January-April.
Summer Session: applications are open February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Fall Session: applications are open June 1st-July 31st and are scheduled to begin and end September-December.
Interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekends, holidays or irregular hours may be required. Internships should be completed normally within 4-12 weeks. The duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is available as a summer, fall, and spring opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have any questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@fwzoo.com.
Fundraising/ Event Planning Internship
Description:
Support the zoo’s philanthropic development staff by assisting with donor relations and fundraiser event planning.
Duties:
- Assist with creation, promotion, and delivery of signature fundraiser events and other donor-focused events.
- Assist with development and set up of fundraising activities.
- Assist with writing and donor communication.
- Assist with various design projects as needed.
- Work alongside the development department.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in public relations, event planning, tourism, communications, hospitality, philanthropy, or other related field.
- Experience planning large or small events for schools or community groups.
- Must be outgoing, adaptable, and able to plan and carry out a variety of activities with minimal supervision.
- “over 21” as preferred (but not required)
- Experience in an office environment.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Summer Session: applications are open February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekends, holidays or irregular hours may be required. Internships should be completed normally within 4-12 weeks. The duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is available as a summer, fall, and spring opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have any questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@fwzoo.com.
Behavioral Husbandry
Description:
The purpose of the behavioral husbandry internship is to introduce students to the behavior and wellbeing components involved in the daily care of exotic animals. This will include tasks involving the training program, enrichment program, welfare monitoring program, and behavioral observations.
Duties:
- Collect data from observing and interpreting animal behavior either directly or from video recordings. As needed, interpret and analyze data with the assistance and guidance of Behavior Management Team.
- As needed, will create enrichment strategies with the assistance and guidance of the Behavior Management Team.
- Will review, replenish, and redistribute olfactory enrichment program components monthly.
- Interact with Animal Care staff and other departments within the zoo as needed.
- Interact with zoo visitors as needed to answer their questions.
- Learn about the zoo’s animals through books, magazines, journals, discussions with staff, and personal observation.
Requirements:
- Minimally, applicants must be a college student with an interest in wildlife.
- Applicants must have the ability to work with minimal supervision but be able to work well with others.
- Applicants should be willing to learn, eager to create and complete projects and have a respect for wild animals. It is preferred that the student have some previous animal or data analysis experience.
- Applicants are preferred to have an understanding of data formatting and analysis in Microsoft Excel and Forms.
- Applicants must be able to work a flexible schedule, which may include weekends and holidays.
- Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license.
- A negative tuberculin test is required if working with primates; testing is provided by the zoo. A current tetanus vaccination is recommended for all interns.
Availability:
Spring Session: applications are open October 1st-November 30th and are scheduled to begin and end January-April.
Summer Session: applications are open February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Fall Session: applications are open June 1st-July 31st and are scheduled to begin and end September-December.
Interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekends, holidays or irregular hours may be required. Internships should be completed normally within 8-12 weeks. The duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
This internship is available as a summer, fall, and spring opportunity. Please see above list of dates to apply.
If you have any questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@fwzoo.com.
Spring Application Window
October 1-November 30
Summer Application Window
February 1-March 31
Fall Application Window
June 1-July 31
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare to apply for an internship?
Please see our application checklist here to prepare yourself for an internship at the Fort Wayne Zoo.
When are internships available?
Spring session applications are opened October 1st-November 30th and are scheduled to begin and end January-April.
Summer session applications are opened February 1st-March 31st and are scheduled to begin and end May-August.
Fall session applications are opened June 1st-July 31st and are scheduled to begin and end September-December.
I have applied. What do I do next?
Fort Wayne Zoo team members will review your application. The application review process is outlined here.
Is there compensation for internships?
All internships at the Fort Wayne Zoo are unpaid voluntary positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the Zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.