Job Description

Job Summary

Twelve-week Internship Program 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 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 the internship program does NOT guarantee future employment at The Sanctuary.

Job Responsibilities

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

• Work closely day-to-day under the guidance of assigned mentors
• Assist elephant care staff in day-to-day activities
• Record-keeping and welfare assessment skills
• Public presentation opportunities
• Assist with enrichment, literature research, and/or other specific projects
• Assist with animal training projects
• Follow all safety instructions and procedures
• Gain valuable skills working in a dynamic team environment
• Any other duties and/or assignments as needed

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.

Qualifications

SUCCESS FACTORS AND EXPECTATIONS:

• Team Oriented – Develop strong working relationships with other Sanctuary employees. Keep intern mentor and supervisor informed of issues, concerns, and problems and if possible, be prepared with recommendations to resolve issues as they arise.
• Good Communicator – Communicate thoughtfully and effectively with others in a timely fashion via in-person conversation, text, phone, and email.  
• Self-motivated – Strong work ethic and professional demeanor.
• Dependable and Reliable – Come to work at agreed upon time ready to exert oneself physically and mentally. Follow procedures and maintain accurate records related to all aspects of elephant care and all areas of responsibility.
• Training – Work with intern mentor and supervisor to address training needs and develop training plans to ensure ongoing professional development.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND PREREQUISITES:

• At least 18 years of age
• GPA of 2.20 or higher
• Completed at least two years of secondary education; this program is designed for students and recent graduates pursuing a career in large exotic mammal husbandry and/or wildlife conservation
• Willing to commit to a 12-week term (5 days/week, 40 hours/week)
• On-site housing is provided. Must be willing to live in co-ed housing with one or more other intern(s).
• Proof of current tetanus vaccination, TB test, and signed physician form to approve mask-fit testing is required.  All tests/vaccinations are at the applicant’s expense.
• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination series
• Must have own means of transportation

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to stand/work outdoors for eight hours at a time in ALL weather conditions
• Must be able to lift 50lbs repeatedly
• Must be able to perform repetitive manual tasks (cutting produce, pressure washing, raking, etc.)
• Must be comfortable being exposed (with personal protective equipment in place) to a variety of auditory (some loud, sudden) and olfactory stimuli over the course of regular work duties

Additional Information

Benefits

Housing

How to Apply

Email: humanresources@elephants.com or

Fax: 931-796-7493

No telephone calls, please. All applications will be held in strict confidence.

Details

• Date Posted: November 12, 2024
• Type: Contract / Temp
• Job Function: Other
• Service Area: Animal Welfare
• Start Date: 02/24/2025
• Salary Range: $13.00
• Working Hours: 40hrs/week

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