Spring Intern

INTERNSHIP TERM: 03/02/26 – 05/22/26

POSITION SUMMARY:

Twelve-week Internship Program focused on providing experiential learning opportunities to individuals seeking to understand, develop and establish careers in the fields of elephant care and conservation.  Interns work closely with Caregivers as well as Education, Development, and Communications staff for a multi-departmental learning experience.  This internship provides an individual with the opportunity to gain work experience at an elephant sanctuary accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

The Elephant Sanctuary practices protected contact/positive reinforcement management of the elephants. Interns will not have free contact interaction with elephants. 

Acceptance into internship program does NOT guarantee future employment at The Sanctuary.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

• Work closely day-to-day under guidance of assigned mentors
• Assist elephant care staff in day-to-day activities
• Record keeping and welfare assessment skills
• Public presentation opportunities
• Assist with enrichment, literature research, and/or other specific projects
• Assist with animal training projects
• Follow all safety instructions and procedures
• Gain valuable skills working in a dynamic team environment
• Any other duties and/or assignments as needed

*Please note this is not meant to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities. The requirements of the internship are subject to change as deemed necessary by The Sanctuary.

SUCCESS FACTORS AND EXPECTATIONS:

• Team Oriented – Develop strong working relationships with other Sanctuary employees. Keep intern mentor and supervisor informed of issues, concerns and problems and if possible, be prepared with recommendations to resolve issues as they arise.
• Good Communicator – Communicate thoughtfully and effectively with others in a timely fashion via in-person conversation, text, phone, and email.
• Self-Motivated – Strong work ethic and professional demeanor.
• Dependable and Reliable – Come to work at agreed upon time ready to exert oneself physically and mentally. Follow procedures and maintain accurate records related to all aspects of elephant care and all areas of responsibility.
• Training – Work with intern mentor and supervisor to address training needs and develop training plans to ensure ongoing professional development.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND PREREQUISITES:

• At least 18 years of age
• GPA of 2.20 or higher
• Completed at least two years of secondary education; this program is designed for students and recent graduates pursuing a career in large exotic mammal husbandry and/or wildlife conservation
• Willing to commit to a 12-week term (5 days/week, 40 hours/week)
• On-site housing provided. Must be willing to live in co-ed housing with one or more other intern(s).
• Proof of current tetanus vaccination, TB test, and signed physician form to approve mask-fit testing is required. All tests/vaccinations are at the applicant’s expense.
• COVID-19 vaccination optional
• Must have own means of transportation

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to stand/work outdoors for eight hours at a time in ALL weather conditions
• Must be able to lift 50lbs repeatedly
• Must be able to perform repetitive manual tasks (cutting produce, pressure washing, raking etc.)
• Must be comfortable being exposed (with personal protective equipment in place) to a variety of auditory (some loud, sudden) and olfactory stimuli over the course of regular work duties

The Sanctuary is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcome, and to nurturing a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state or local law.