Exotic Animal Care Internships
There are many options with
regards to seeking a career related to animal care. The AAZK
is a good source for information, as is the AZA
website. It will help answer that often-asked question
"where do I get a job doing what you do?" We hope you find
it useful.
Watch intern Kelly's presentation about her experience during the summer of 2007!
Our Internship Program:
Students who have completed Black Pine's internship program have gone on to secure paid positions at some of the nation's finest institutions, including:
Shedd Aquarium
Brookfield Zoo
Columbian Park Zoo
Washington Park Zoo
Northwest Trek
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Zooquarium at Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park
Black Pine's (unpaid) internship program offers college students the unparalleled opportunity to learn about exotic animal care in a hands-on environment with tigers, lions, chimpanzees and other primates, reptiles, and more. While learning the realities of running a sanctuary, students will gain invaluable experience in many aspects of animal husbandry, business administration, and communications.
Interns must be
able to meet the following requirements in order to be considered for
the program:
· At least 18 years of age or older
· Hold a valid driver's license
· Available to work at least eight hours per shift
· Available to work at least 3 to 4 days a week
· Available to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays
· Able to lift up to 30 pounds
· Able to stand to be on your feet for extended periods of time
· Able to read and follow instructions and be self-motivated
· Assist with grounds keeping, administrative tasks, and public speaking as well as animal care.
Interns are supervised by our Lead Keeper and Executive Director and will be scheduled to work on a regular basis, and expected to work when scheduled (every effort will be made to schedule around an intern's other commitments and obligations as long as those are made known before the internship begins.) Interns will be expected to work independently and with other interns and volunteers, Black Pine’s Director, and Operations Manager. Black Pine, at this time, cannot offer any housing or transportation so interns must reside within the area or fund their own room and board to stay in the area during their internship. Every effort will be made to work with the intern to find accommodations for them during their internship. Black Pine's internships are highly competitive, with limited housing options, so apply early and be thorough when completing an application.
The experience gained through the internship program will benefit students greatly in their pursuit of a degree and eventual career in animal sciences, particularly zoology, veterinary medicine, and zoo management.
**To Apply for one of Black Pine’s Internships please submit the following:
1. Completed Application (click here to download application.)
2. Cover Letter explaining why you are interested in the program and why you should be accepted into the program.
3. Resume
4. Two letters of recommendation
5. Mail to:
Internships
Black Pine Animal Park
P.O. Box 02
Albion, IN 46701
Fall Internships
August/September-October/November
Now accepting applications!!
**Applicants must apply by August 1, 2009
Winter Internships
December/January -February/March
Now accepting applications!!
**Applicants must apply by November 1, 2009
Spring Internships
March/April-May
**Applicants must apply by February 1, 2010
Summer Internships
May/June-August
**Applicants must apply by March 1, 2010
