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Internships and Externships

Wolf Park's Internship Program provides unique opportunities for individuals to advance their knowledge about wolves, foxes, and bison in human care. Our program is designed to incorporate lecture based learning about topics such as animal training, husbandry, and ethology, with applied activities throughout our 75 acre facility. Throughout their time here, interns will work alongside staff to meet the operational needs of a small non-profit.

Animal Care Internship Program

2024 Dates

January 15 – April 15
March 11 – June 15
May 6 – July 27
May 27 – August 25

Location: Wolf Park in Battle Ground, IN


Position Description: 

This position will provide a well-rounded experience for those individuals actively pursuing a career that includes animal husbandry and care in a conservation and education-based setting.  Interns will work alongside professional animal care staff assisting with diet preparation, distribution, cleaning animal habitats and buildings, behavioral observations, and implementing and administering enrichment across all of Wolf Park’s animal ambassador collection.  Interns will also have learning opportunities and responsibilities involving informal guest interactions.


Learning Opportunities: 

  • Animal welfare

  • Animal habitat maintenance

  • Diet preparation/nutrition

  • Basic animal medical checks

  • Behavioral Training- Theoretical skills/application of positive reinforcement techniques

  • USDA/ZAA information

  • Record-keeping

  • General operations relating to daily animal care

  • And more


Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years or older to apply

  • Must possess unrestricted work authorization

  • Must provide proof of tetanus booster within 10 years

  • Ability to multitask; work in a fast paced environment

  • Ability to work independently and part of a team

  • Must have excellent interpersonal skills

  • Must be able to work inside and outside in inclement weather

  • Able and willing to follow safe work practices as explained during orientation

  • Must be able to pass a background check


Required Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent Required

  • College Student or recent college graduate majoring in biology, zoology, animal sciences or related field recommended


Costs:

  • A $150 refundable security deposit is required.

  • Interns living on-site receive a living stipend.
  • Food, transportation to and from our facility, groceries, souvenirs, visas, and other expenses are not included in the program price.

 

A living allowance is designed to help members meet the necessary living expenses incurred while serving in the Wolf Park internship program. The living allowance is not a wage and does not fluctuate based on the number of hours served in a given time period. A daily living allowance of $13 will be paid during the term of service in increments throughout the term of service.

Application Process: Interns are required to submit an application for consideration.

Applications must be completed online. Supplemental materials: (2) Letters of recommendation, Current Resume or CV, and a copy (official or unofficial) of your transcripts can be emailed or mailed to our facility. Once the application is received, it is reviewed by the Intern Coordinator. If you appear to be a good match for our program, the next step is an interview. This can be conducted over the phone or via Zoom. Interviews are prearranged by the Intern Coordinator and applicant between the hours of 10 am to 5 pm EST Monday through Friday and generally takes about an hour.

After the interview, if you are accepted, your acceptance will be contingent on a background check, which we conduct after receipt of your $150 refundable deposit to hold your space.


Questions? Please email [email protected]