Conservation Education Internship - Summer 2026

Description

Conservation Education Internship - Summer 2026Dallas Zoo’s Education Department is focused on providing high-quality educational programming from seasonal camps, family, early childhood and school programs to in-park interpretation and community conservation engagement initiatives.

Working alongside education staff, interns in the education department have the opportunity to receive training and experience in effective instructional techniques for interpretation, conservation and science-oriented program development, outcomes-based program evaluation, working with volunteers and key community partners to develop community conservation engagement events and customer service in a team-based professional environment. 

There are many different roles in the education department; at the beginning of the internship, interns will have the opportunity to choose a specific position to shadow based on personal interest. Interns will also be responsible for completing a demonstration project on one of the topics outlined above. 

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated individual looking to expand their knowledge of interpretation and conservation education programming. 

The Dallas Zoo College Internship Program provides a learning opportunity for currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students at an accredited college/university in the United States. Interns become actively involved in the Zoo’s animal care departments, conservation/research efforts, operations, and/or administrative positions.

Interns work 20-24 hours per week for a maximum of 12 weeks. Each placement is designed to help the intern gain experience related to their education.  Most internship positions are unpaid. The Zoo does not provide transportation, housing, or a stipend.

All interns will be required to complete an educational project, participate in at least one service-learning project, and attend professional development sessions designed especially for Dallas Zoo interns.

The Dallas Zoo Volunteer Services Department will work with students/schools to document internship experience needed to gain university/college credit. 

Qualifications:

• Must be able to perform physical challenges involved in the daily duties of the department including talking for long periods, walking throughout the park, lifting/carrying equipment weighing approximately 50 lbs., sitting, kneeling, stooping, crawling, twisting, reaching above the head, pulling, bending, and climbing stairs and ladders.
• The candidate must be able and willing to perform all duties outdoors and in all weather conditions.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions 
• Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing 
• Establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, and zoo guests 

Internship requirements:

• Current college or university student or applications submitted within one year after graduation
• Ability to work 20 – 24 hours per week for 12 weeks
• Must be otherwise eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of the internship
• Candidates selected for internship must pass a background check and TB test.