Event Productions Internship Fall

Event Productions Internship – Fall 2026

Interns will gain hands-on exposure to all aspects of planning and executing Zoo Tampa's signature seasonal events and annual fundraising experiences. This internship provides valuable learning opportunities in event logistics, entertainment operations, vendor coordination, guest experience, and day-of event execution within a fast-paced live events environment. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, eager to learn, and excited to gain real-world experience producing large-scale public events at one of Tampa's premier attractions.

Essential Functions (including but not limited to):

• Assist with onsite vendor coordination and logistical support during Creatures of the Night installation.
• Support operations for Creatures of the Night cast rehearsals, including setup, coordination, and event readiness tasks.
• Work one Creatures of the Night event night per week to provide operational support and assist in resolving vendor, cast, or guest-related issues.
• Participate in pre-planning efforts for Zoo Brews through sponsor research, outreach, and event preparation activities.
• Provide pre-production and day-of-event coordination support for single-day pop-up events, including partner activations, Toddler Tuesday, educational programs, and other special events as needed.
• Assist with administrative and organizational tasks in support of general Event Productions operations.
• Learn and assist with basic audio/visual troubleshooting and general event operations problem-solving.

Qualifications, Skills, and

Experience:

• Applicants must be currently pursuing or have recently completed a degree in hospitality, entertainment, event and meeting planning, marketing, or a related field.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Excel and Word.
• Creative with the ability to think outside the box.
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities at one time.
• Must be a self-starter and able to work independently or collaboratively as needed.
• Professional attire may be required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Physical Abilities:

• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical to west central Florida (i.e., heat, rain or cold).
• Must have physical endurance for long, high volume days and be able to stand/walk for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift, push, pull and carry up to 40 pounds with or without accommodation.

Required Availability:

• Must be able to commit to a 12–14-week internship period.
• Must be able to commit to a minimum of 24 hours per week.
• Must be available to work:
• Wednesdays
• One weekend day per week
• One evening shift per week (based on event schedule and operational needs).
• Preferred schedule structure is Wednesday-Saturday, but alternative scheduling will be considered when possible.

Additional Requirements:

• If an internship offer is made, it is contingent on:
  Candidates seeking academic credit must have arrangements agreed upon between the Zoo and their school before beginning the internship.
• All offers are contingent on the successful completion of a criminal background screening and execution of a required hold harmless/liability release agreement.
• Candidate will be responsible for the cost of the background check (typically $25 but certain jurisdictions may have additional fees).

Benefits:

Internships are unpaid and are designed to meet academic requirements, as applicable, and provide valuable real-world experience for participants. Successful completion of an internship may also yield letters of recommendation, a portfolio of their work when applicable, and important networking contacts. Potential academic credit may be available subject to program eligibility requirements.