Animal Care Intern - Spring Semester

Description: Animal Care Interns assist and support Animal Care Staff in a professional, state of the art animal care environment, as is provided in Association of Zoo and Aquarium accredited institutions throughout the US, for native fish and reptiles, as well as native and exotic amphibians. After initial hands-on training, Interns will be required to accomplish husbandry tasks independently and must complete assigned individual project work. A unique feature of this fall’s internship is being able to witness, learn about and assist with large-scale aquarium renovations and installations. There are currently 1 -2 positions open: candidates must have availability to work January 2027 - May 2027. There is potential to extend this internship through the summer season, hours would increase during the summer.

Responsibilities may include:

- Preparing diets and feeding animals
- Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures both on exhibit and in the back of house
- Administering medications to animals
- Creating and installing naturalistic habitats
- Animal handling
- Keeping daily records of husbandry tasks and animal wellbeing
- Researching natural history and captive husbandry practices
- Creating and delivering 20-30 minute educational programs on species natural history, conservation needs, and/or captive care.

Essential Skills/Training:

- Applicants should be enthusiastic, detail-oriented, reliable, and willing to get wet and/or dirty!
- Occasional raising or relocation of up to 60 pounds may be required.
- Capable of independently completing responsibilities listed in the previous section.
- Majors in animal science, wildlife biology, pre-vet, aquaculture, environmental science, or related fields preferred.

Time Commitment:

- 4 month commitment
- 12 hours per week required for Spring 2027 semester; if internship is extended into summer hours will increase.

Work Conditions
This position typically works indoors in the guest space or in ‘back of house’ animal care areas. Occasional outdoor collection trips may occur, which may involve hiking, wading or entering or traversing streams. The position works directly with reptiles, amphibians, fish and various invertebrate food items. The position may occasionally require relocating or raising up to 60lbs. Typical responsibilities involve stooping, balancing, climbing ladders, and being in close proximity to Animal Care staff (especially during the initial training period). Typical work involves water; floors are typically wet and care is required when moving through work areas.

ECHO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state or Federal law.