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
- Fall Term Focus: A special emphasis on supporting the development of building a more robust summer teen volunteer program. Interns will assist with projects related to recruitment, training preparation, and program planning.
- Fall Term Focus: Participate in special event planning and on-site coordination, assisting with volunteer assignments and logistics at our annual Boo at the Zoo event
- 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
- 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 mid-February to mid-May. Start dates are flexible and will be determined after acceptance into the program.
- Fall internships will occur mid-August to mid-November. 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
