Asian Highlands Intern

Job Details Job Location: Omaha Zoo – Omaha, NE 68107 Position Type: Part Time Job Title: Asian Highlands Intern FLSA Status: Non-exempt Classification: Seasonal Hours: Up to 24 hours per week for 12 weeks Pay Rate: $15.00 per hour Schedule The fall session runs September 22nd – December 14th, 2026. Interns must be available during this time. Orientation: First day of each semester from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Interns must attend in person. Weekly Schedule: Interns must be available to work up to 24 hours per week and attend one weekly afternoon professional development session starting the second week of the internship. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays. Schedules will be determined before internships begin with the Intern Coordinator and animal area supervisors. Description Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is seeking an intern in Asian Highlands to assist with daily feeding, cleaning, and general care of their animals. Interns will also learn about care for lions, Amur tigers, and snow leopards, but will not be in direct contact with these animals or near their holding areas. Asian Highlands features animals from a diverse range of habitats in Asia, from the grassland foothills of Northern India to the Himalayan Mountains. Responsibilities Develop, work on, and present an internship project aligned with the research needs of the animal care staff in Asian Highlands. Attend weekly professional development sessions. Complete learning goals on internship checklist. Participate in and complete a mid‑point and final evaluation. Assist in and complete assigned tasks, including but not limited to: cleaning and general maintenance of the exhibits and buildings (raking and weeding); daily care of animal collection; recordkeeping; animal enrichment; monitoring behavior and changes in animal health; diet preparation and feeding; assist with Keeper Talks for zoo guests. Observe animal care staff demonstrate proper animal interaction techniques. Other duties may be assigned. Qualifications At least 18 years old. Follow safety guidelines and always demonstrate safe working practices. Effective time‑management skills for working in a fast‑paced and flexible environment. Strong communication skills; communicate frequently and in a professional manner with supervisor and team members. Work well with others and have the ability to work independently. Team‑oriented and willing to work with other interns, volunteers, and staff members to further the goals of the department and the zoo’s mission statement. Attend shifts on time and as scheduled. Follow detailed instructions. Experience Training and/or experience, through previous internships or employment, that demonstrates knowledge and skills required to work with large cats, bears, or other large animals is preferred. Education Interns must be currently enrolled in, or have recently graduated from, a college or university. A minimum of one year of coursework in a major field of study to be applied during the internship (e.g., biology, zoology, animal behavior, etc.) is preferred. Knowledge of big cat natural history, biology, captive husbandry, operant conditioning, and conservation issues is preferred. Physical Demands This position may involve considerable physical exertion, including lifting of heavy objects (50+ pounds) and/or assuming awkward positions. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consider these physical requirements before applying. Interns that are not able to meet the physical requirements may be reassigned to another department. Work Environment May be asked to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions. Routine exposure to hot, cold, and sometimes wet conditions. Public Contact Interns will interact with the public frequently throughout the internship and are expected to exhibit professionalism and exceptional customer service. Interns may be asked to engage in public speaking opportunities, including informal educational presentations for the public. Benefits This position does not provide medical coverage. Background Check All candidates are required to pass a pre‑employment background check and drug screening. 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