Volunteer Services Internships

About the Internship

The Volunteer Services Department at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Volunteer Services Intern to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in volunteer coordination, program management, and event planning, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. Interns will develop professional skills in recruitment, engagement, training, and administration of volunteers and interns in a dynamic zoo environment.

Key Responsibilities

Assist with the onboarding process for volunteers and interns, including application reviews and background checks
Support the planning and facilitation of volunteer training sessions, orientations, and engagement activities
Help manage volunteer and intern records in the Volgistics database, ensuring accurate documentation of hours and assignments
Participate in special event planning and on-site coordination, assisting with volunteer assignments and logistics
Engage with diverse groups, including volunteers, interns, staff, and guests
Additional responsibilities as needed

Qualifications & Skills

Applicants must be one of the following:
- Rising undergraduate junior or senior
- Current graduate student
- Recent graduate (within the past year) from a post-secondary institution (undergraduate or graduate)
Applications from individuals outside of these categories will not be considered.
Pursuing a degree in a relevant field of study (e.g., human resources, hospitality, event planning, education, business management, etc.)
Effective interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and a willingness to learn new software
Ability to lift a minimum of 10 lbs., bend, stoop, stand for at least 30 minutes
Capable of working in all climatic conditions
Ability to perform sedentary work, including prolonged periods of sitting, typing, and computer use in an office setting.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Passion for community engagement and service

Schedule and Additional Information

Fall and Spring Internships

12 Week Part-time Internships

This internship is 12 weeks, part-time, for a total of 240 hours
Must be available to work a part-time flexible schedule, which may include weekends, evenings, and holidays

Program Dates

2026 spring internships will occur February 23 and May 8. Start dates are flexible and will be determined after acceptance into the program.
Fall internships will occur mid-August to October. Start dates are flexible and will be determined after acceptance into the program.

Stipend & Housing

Stipends are unavailable for spring and fall internships
Onsite housing is available for reduced fee (limited availability)

Summer Internships

10-Week Full-Time Internships

Internships run for 10 weeks, full time (40 hours per week), for a total of 400 hours
Interns must be available to work a full-time schedule, which may include weekends and holidays

Program Dates

Summer 2026 internships run from May 25 to August 7. Start dates will be determined after acceptance into the program; however, interns can expect to begin during the week of May 25.

Stipend & Housing

Summer interns receive a modest stipend of $1,500 intended to help offset basic living expenses during the program. Interns may choose one of the following housing options:
- Free on-site housing (limited availability), or
- A $600 housing allowance (equal to the value of on-site housing) for those who prefer to commute or arrange their own accommodations

Ready to Apply?

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field.