Paid Fall Internship

INTERNSHIP TERM: 08/28/23 – 11/17/23 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This twelve-week Internship is focused on providing experiential learning opportunities to individuals seeking to understand, develop and establish careers in the fields of elephant care and conservation.  Interns work closely with Caregivers as well as Education, Development, and Communications staff for a multi-departmental learning experience.  This internship provides an individual with the opportunity to gain work experience at an elephant sanctuary accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) and certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). 

The Elephant Sanctuary practices protected contact/positive reinforcement management of the elephants. Interns will not have free contact interaction with elephants.  

Acceptance into internship program does NOT guarantee future employment at The Sanctuary. 

Housing and hourly compensation are provided. 

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE: 

• Working closely with other full-time staff under the daily guidance of an employee mentor 
• Assisting elephant care staff in daily activities 
• Presenting to the public at the Elephant Discovery Center under guidance of Education and Outreach staff 
• Assisting with creation of environmental enrichment for elephants, literature research, and/or other specific needs as outlined by staff 
• Assisting husbandry staff with animal training projects 
• Following all safety instructions and procedures  
• Gaining valuable skills working as part of a team with other animal care, conservation and education professionals with different skill sets and talents. 

*Please note this is not meant to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities. The requirements of the internship are subject to change as deemed necessary by The Sanctuary. 

SUCCESS FACTORS AND EXPECTATIONS: 

• Team Oriented – The intern will develop close working relationships with other employees. The intern will his/her/their mentor and supervisor informed of issues, concerns and problems and if possible and be prepared with recommendations to resolve issues as they arise. 
• Good Communicator – The intern will communicate clearly and thoughtfully with others. The intern will keep his/her/their mentor and supervisor informed of both internal and/or external issues and concerns affecting their quality of work life and performance.  Communication will take place in person, through emails, texts, and phone calls. The intern is expected to respond to these as soon as possible. 
• Self-Motivated – The intern will come to work each day prepared to exert themselves physically and mentally. 
• Dependable and Reliable – The intern will report to work each day at the time chosen by his/her/there mentor. This time will be consistent day to day. The intern will follow procedures and maintain accurate records related to all aspects of elephant care and all areas of responsibility, including human resources matters related to his/her/themselves.  
• Training – Work with mentor and supervisor to address training needs and develop training plans to ensure ongoing professional development.