Bear Intern

Summer Bear Internship- 5 positions available

Fall Bear Internship- 2 positions available 

Time Commitment: 500 hours, including work on holidays and weekends
Housing: We provide housing at a designated location
Payment: Stipend of $1500 (taxable) for meeting 500 hours

Application deadline:

Summer- February 29th, 2024 or until filled

Fall- March 31st, 2024 or until filled

Season Dates:

Summer- May 2024 to August 2024 (Exact dates can be flexible)

Fall- August 2024 to October 2024 (Exact dates can be flexible) 

Goal of the Internship Program: The North American Bear Center internship program is designed to give pre-professionals hands on experience in black bear biology, ecology, animal behavior and husbandry, public speaking, and communication. This internship is ideal for undergraduate and recent graduate students exploring careers in wildlife biology, zoology, environmental sciences, ecology, wildlife management, natural resources, and animal behavior. These fields of study will be given preference in the selection process.

Bear interns will educate NABC guests about bears by leading programs and answering questions. They are also responsible for all aspects of bear care and enclosure maintenance.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct captive black bear care by: feeding, food preparation, maintaining and executing feeding schedule, documenting diet and behavior, enclosure maintenance, and other caretaker procedures.
• Lead programs for our guests in a professional manner by guiding tours, Q&A sessions, online broadcasts, and other activities.
• Engage our guests in conversation, answer questions, and help direct them to information within the NABC.
• When necessary, assist in small animal care by: feeding, documenting diet and behavior, enclosure cleaning and maintenance, handling for and with guests, and other caretaking procedures.
• When necessary, assist in maintaining the exhibit hall areas so that they are clean and presentable to guests.
• Research and utilize relative Minnesota flora and fauna to enhance your knowledge and heighten your ability to educate others.
• Create and present a project that adds value to the NABC by the end of your internship.
• Daily opening and closing business procedures.

Required Abilities/Skills:

• Work under supervision
• Stand for long periods
• Lift at least 50 pounds safely
• Navigate efficiently over uneven ground
• Improvise, adapt, and overcome new and unforeseen situations
• Able to work and live with others who are different than yourself
• Strong communication skills
• Able to conduct yourself in a professional and mature manner in the workplace
• Eagerness and willingness to learn new information

Additional Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age
• Fluent in English language
• Valid driver’s license
• Social Security Number
• Direct deposit information