Mammal Department Farm/ Ambassador - Fall Internship
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.
Responsibilities: The purpose of an internship in our Mammal Department is to gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of Riverbanks mission and to better prepare for a future career in the animal field. While interning with the Mammal Department you will observe and participate in the overall operation of the zoological facility. You will gain exposure to other departments that support the individual function and goals of the Mammal Department. During your internship at Riverbanks, you will be exposed to a variety of management styles and approaches.
Internship includes the following areas:
• Farm (goats, alpacas, rabbits, pigs, ducks, turkey, chickens, etc.)
• Zebra and Ostrich
Additional animals that may be included in the internship:
• Mammals (Virginia opossums, rabbits, hedgehogs, tenrec, etc.)
• Reptiles (snakes, skinks, turtles, tortoises, lizards, etc.)
• Amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders, etc.)
• Invertebrates (tarantulas, millipedes, etc.)
The categories of study during the internship include:
• Assist with daily maintenance of animal enclosures and exhibits.
• Assist with daily maintenance of keeper areas, including cleaning dishes, daily laundry, etc.
• Learn about animal nutrition and prepare diets.
• Learn about animal behaviors in both captive and natural environments.
• Observe operant conditioning techniques of our managed animals.
• Enrichment:
o Design and implement environmental enrichment techniques.
o Assist keepers in observing animals with new enrichment items and completing evaluation forms.
• Observe animal keepers and veterinarians during medical procedures.
• Attend department meetings.
• Learn about AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums), SSPs (Species Survival Programs), TAGs (Taxon Advisory Groups), and other aspects of zoo management.
Education and Experience: Internships are open to qualified graduates and undergraduates seeking degrees in biology or related fields. Applicants must be able to work any day of the week, including weekends and holidays. Must be able to bend, stoop or stand for long periods of time. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Commit to a minimum of 3 months for 40 hours a week. Must provide proof of a current Tuberculin skin test. Proper PPE (face masks) must be utilized in sensitive animal areas.