Animal Behavior and Wellbeing Intern

Job Title: Animal Behavior and Wellbeing Intern (Seasonal) – Omaha Zoo, Omaha, NE. Hours: Up to 24 hours per week for 12 weeks during the fall session (September 22 – December 14, 2026). Pay: $15.00/hour. Location: Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, Omaha, NE. Overview The Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is seeking an Animal Behavior and Wellbeing (ABW) Intern to support the Manager of Animal Behavior and Wellbeing. The intern will work with keeper staff on day‑to‑day husbandry, training, enrichment, and welfare of the animal collection. Responsibilities Develop, work on, and present an internship project aligned with conservation science staff needs. Attend weekly professional development sessions and complete learning goals on the internship checklist. Participate in a mid‑point and final evaluation. Assist in tasks including creating ethograms, collecting and analyzing behavioral data, preparing enrichment, developing operant conditioning techniques, and providing animal demonstrations. Work with the ABW manager and animal area staff on welfare assessments. Support public presentations and guest interactions as needed. Qualifications Must be at least 18 years old. Must follow safety guidelines and demonstrate safe working practices at all times. Must possess strong time‑management, communication, and interpersonal skills. Must work well with others, be team‑oriented, and able to work independently. Must attend shifts on time and follow detailed instructions. Must be comfortable interacting with the public and providing exceptional customer service. Education Interns must be currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from a college or university. A minimum of one year of coursework in biology, zoology, animal behavior, or a related field is preferred. Physical Demands & Environment May involve climbing ladders, lifting objects of 50 pounds or more, exposure to heat, cold, moisture, chemicals, and minor physical trauma. Required Background Checks Candidates must pass a pre‑employment background check, drug screening, and a TB test. Legal & EEO Statement Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. #J-18808-Ljbffr Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium