Volunteer Services Intern

POSITION: Volunteer Services Internship for the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

SCHEDULE: Each internship session, Spring, Summer, and Fall, is 12 weeks. All interns must be available during this time.

• Orientation: First day of each semester from 9am-4pm. All interns must be available to attend orientation in-person.
• Weekly Schedule: Must be available to workup to 24 hours per week; $12/hr. Interns must be available to attend professional development session starting the second week of their internship. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays. Schedules will be determined before internships begin by working with the Volunteer Manager and animal area supervisors.  

DESCRIPTION: Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is seeking an enthusiastic Volunteer Services Intern. A Volunteer Services Intern will learn basic educational philosophies and the necessary skills required for entry-level informal science education jobs.  Volunteer Services Interns will work closely with the Youth Coordinator in developing, learning, and presenting summer interpretation with our youth program, ages 4th- 12th grade.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop, work on, and present an internship project aligned with the research needs of their internship area.
• Attend professional development sessions.
• Participate in and complete a mid-point and final evaluation.
• Assist in and complete tasks assigned by intern area supervisor.
  • Informal educational presentations for Zoo guests.
  • Assist in lesson/interpretation plan research and development.
  • Assist Youth Volunteer Coordinator and Adult Volunteer Coordinator with facilitating volunteer and interpretive programs and training volunteers.
  • Other duties may be assigned.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must follow safety guidelines and always demonstrate safe working practices.
• Must have effective time management skills for working in a fast-paced and flexible work environment.
• Must possess strong communication skills; Communicate frequently and in a professional manner with supervisor and team members.
• Must work well with others and have the ability to work independently.
• Must be team-oriented and willing to work with other interns, volunteers, and staff members to further not only the goals of the department but also of the Zoo's mission.
• Must attend scheduled shifts on time and as scheduled.
• Must have the ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, and may be required to offer proof of a negative skin tuberculosis test.  

EXPERIENCE: Experience is not necessary, but consideration will be given to an individual's experience with teaching and/or working with children.  

EDUCATION: Interns must be currently enrolled in, or have recently graduated from, a college or university. A minimum of one year of coursework in a major field of study to be applied during the internship (e.g. biology, zoology, animal behavior, marketing, etc.) is preferred. Must be motivated to continue expanding knowledge base as it applies to program animals and guest interactions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: This position involves standing for long periods and lifting heavy objects (up to or more than 20 pounds).

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Interns may be required to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions. Routine exposure to hot and humid conditions.  

PUBLIC CONTACT: Interns will interact with the public frequently throughout their internship and are expected to always exhibit professionalism and exceptional customer service. Interns may be asked to engage in public speaking opportunities, including but not limited to informal educational presentations for the public.  Guest concerns, questions or complaints should be promptly relayed to Zoo staff.

TO APPLY:

• Prospective interns can only submit ONE application per person specific to their top their choice but may indicate up to two other areas that interest them on their application.
• Must submit Cover Letter and Resume to Paycom at the time you apply. Applications without these materials will not be considered. 
  • Your cover letter should include clearly defined career goals including how interning in the area you selected as your top choice will help you achieve your goals.

• Interns must provide their availability at the time of their interview. Interviews may be conducted over the phone, in person, or over Zoom.

We will do everything possible to accommodate school requirements for those seeking to earn class credit. We do our best to accommodate the schedules of interns with full or part-time job requirements.

Please note this position does not provide any medical coverage