Internship Program

The Zoo's Only Internship is Through the Education Department.

Through participation in the program, students will assist Education staff with a variety of tasks including interactions with Zoo visitors which promote the fulfillment of the Zoo's mission to "encourage understanding of and commitment to the conservation of the world's wild animal and plant species, the need for healthy habitats and recognition of the interdependence of people, their natural environment and its component resources." The Education Division’s internship program is for those interested in the research, development, implementation and evaluation of educational programs only.

Note: The Zoo does not offer formal internship opportunities which involve direct contact with animals. For those interested in working with animals, we suggest you consider volunteering at the Valeirie H. Schindler Wildlife Rehab Center. You may contact the Center by calling 336-879-7644 or by using this form.

Internship Program Goal

The goal of the N.C. Zoo Education Division's internship experience is to provide pre-professional, in-service experiential learning opportunities for dedicated students interested in environmental issues/ethics, communication, informal education, visitor studies and community service.

Eligibility Requirements

3.0 GPA or special recommendation from academic supervisor
Availability of at least 10 hours per week / 12 week minimum
Submission of resume with cover letter
Minimum of 3 letters of recommendation from university faculty
Pre-service interview with Zoo's Curator of Education
Dependable transportation
Positive attitude and strong work ethic

Ideal Qualities

Passionate and curious about the natural world and environmental issues.
Outgoing with good communication and organizational skills.
Enjoys working interactively with a variety of age groups.
Dependable, cooperative and self-motivated.

Duties and Responsibilities

Research and study environmental issues relevant to specific ecosystems.
Collaborate with Zoo Educators to learn effective public presentation techniques and information for informal educational programs.
Practice presentation/communication skills.
Conduct informal programs at selected Zoo exhibits (may include presentations at Smart Carts, puppet shows, storytelling, and roving characters).
Assist with outreach presentations, overnight zoo snooze or summer camp experiences.
Assist with research and development of educational materials.
Assist with collection of data for evaluation of educational programs.

Supervisory Relationship

The Curator of Education serves as the internship coordinator for the N.C. Zoo's Education Division and is responsible for communication with the participating University supervisor and contract agreements with students. Student work schedules must be approved by the Curator and any necessary deviation should be discussed well in advance. Failure to fulfill expectations may result in dismissal from the program. Interns may be assigned to work closely with the Park Program Coordinator, Education Specialist, Coordinator of On-line Learning Resources, or Visitor Educators depending upon specific assignments.

Extended Opportunity

A number of students will be offered paid internship opportunities to assist with educational programs throughout the summer months. The extended program will require a commitment of at least 20 hours per week from April through August, including weekends. Based on students' availability, working through October is feasible. Selection for paid positions may be based on performance during the non-paid experience.

Contact Information

Please send resumes and address inquiries to:
Carolyn Brown
N.C. Zoo
4401 Zoo Parkway
Asheboro, NC 27205
Phone: 336-879-7714
Fax: 336-879-2891

You may also contact us via this form.

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N.C. Zoo is a member institution of AZA and an agency of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, William G. Ross Jr. Secretary; Michael F. Easley, Governor. A part of the North Carolina Government portal.

The Zoo is closed Christmas day and during severe weather. Call our information line at: 1-800-488-0444.

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