Congo Expedition Internship (2026

Overview

This internship provides an opportunity to learn about the general husbandry and care of animals within the Congo Expedition region. Interns will actively assist with daily operations and gain hands‑on experience while observing the day‑to‑day responsibilities of a Zookeeper.

• Preparing animal diets
• Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits
• Observing animals and reporting behavioral changes
• Designing and delivering educational interpretation to guests on animal behavior, habitats, and conservation
• Maintaining area grounds and buildings
• Adhering to all safety guidelines and protocols
• Interacting with guests and providing excellent guest service
• Performing other duties as assigned

Interns will also complete structured learning components, including quizzes, required trainings, projects, and a final reflection paper assigned by the department.

• Understand the fundamentals of husbandry for species within the Congo Expedition region
• Gain practical experience in daily care routines for a diverse collection of animals
• Learn animal behavior observation and reporting techniques
• Develop knowledge of safety procedures and professional standards in animal care
• Strengthen communication, interpretation, and teamwork skills in a zoological setting

• Hands‑on experience working within a professional zoo setting
• Exposure to careers in animal care, conservation, and wildlife management
• Opportunities to collaborate with experienced animal care professionals
• Development of practical skills to support future employment or advanced academic pursuits

• Second‑year college student or recent graduate (within 2 years) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field
• 3.0 GPA or higher preferred
• TB test required upon starting
• Prior animal care experience preferred
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to balance multiple assignments
• Professional appearance and courteous behavior
• Ability to maintain cooperative working relationships with Zoo staff and contacts
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures, including all safety protocols
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays (e.g., July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day)
• Subject to BMV check
• Subject to criminal background check

• Ability to perform strenuous physical work
• Ability to lift, bend, walk, and stand for extended periods
• Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow

Minimum of 20 hours per week for 12–16 weeks.

The RISE Scholarship, generously funded by Battelle, is open to eligible interns and provides a $5,000 scholarship supporting hands‑on, mission‑driven internship experiences across the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. Applications are open May 1 – June 30 2026.