Reports to: under the supervision of the Volunteer Manager, reports to Curator of Education, Assistant Curator of Education, and lead Education team members as assigned.

Position Description: The Brandywine Zoo is seeking dynamic and engaging intern to assist our education team with outreach programs. Our outreach programs provide opportunities for people and places that may not be able to visit the zoo, so we bring the zoo to them! This intern will support our outreach programming by either assisting zoo educators or, in some cases, representing the zoo on their own for select events. We’re looking for an intern with great people skills (especially with children!), able to work as part of a team and independently, organized, dependent, energetic, positive, creative, and have a passion for animals and wildlife conservation!

Intern Responsibilities:

  • Work with and assist zoo educators in teaching and leading educational outreach programs. During peak season, this person may travel to and lead outreach programs (called “Traveling Zoos”) solo.
  • Independently and professionally represent the Brandywine Zoo while conducting outreach programs.
  • Provide accurate information about our zoo and animal collection in an age-appropriate and engaging manner.
  • Review, study, and learn provided program materials. This may include standards based lesson plans and animal fact sheets.
  • Share animal facts and other educational information as it relates to the program in a clear and concise manner.
  • Assist zoo educators with preparing and packing supplies for outreach programs.
  • Be able to successfully pack, present, and handle biofacts in a safe, approved manner.
  • Perform other program related assignments as agreed upon.

This Opportunity is GOOD for People Who:

  • Like sharing their learned knowledge with people of all ages.
  • Enjoy public speaking and teaching others in small to large groups.
  • Have any type of teaching experience, whether formal or informal.
  • Like to read and learn interesting animal facts!
  • Like to travel to schools, libraries, hospitals, special events, and other places in the state of Delaware and immediate tri-state area.
  • Thrive in a fast paced environment.
  • Great opportunity for teachers or those interested in education to gain valuable experience.

Requirements:

  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
  • Must be fluent in the English language (verbal and written communication).
  • Able to professionally represent the Brandywine Zoo in all interactions with visitors, staff, and other members of the community that may visit the zoo.
  • Applicants must be working toward or already have a degree in Education, Environment/Wildlife Education, Biology, Psychology, Animal Science, Wildlife Conservation, or other Biological Sciences.
  • Able and willing to read and follow verbal and written work instructions and work independently.
  • Able and willing to follow standards based and grade specific lesson plans.
  • Able and willing to speak in front of mixed age audiences.
  • Must be able to provide proof of negative TB test annually.

Training: A hallmark of the program, interns receive training from the field experts they will be working with. In addition to this formal and informal training to successfully conduct their internship assignment, interns will have the opportunity to build associated skills and share real-time experience with park staff and colleagues. Training will be made available to the interns to further their personal and professional development. Additionally, the position will develop critical skills for those interested in a career in conservation, natural resource management, animal management, or ecological studies. Opportunities for school credit are available.

  • Evaluation: Intern must attend related interpretation training, and shadow a minimum of 3 programs before their final evaluation.
  • San Diego Zoo Global: Course listings provided by the Brandywine Zoo. A series of 15 online courses (Animal Care Series One) is required of all our interns. Certificate upon completion.

Housing: Limited co-ed housing is available, at no fee, for this internship. If selected for housing, an intern will share a house, duplex or dorm facility with other interns.

Activities: Interns will have the opportunity not only to visit ALL Delaware State Parks at no fee, but also participate in many of the tours, programs, and associated events for free. Delaware State Parks span the length of the state and whether it be canoeing at Trap Pond State Park, surfing at Delaware Seashore State Park, attending a concert at Bellevue State Park, or touring the living history facility at Fort Delaware, there is certainly something for everyone.

Required Time Commitment: 15 – 25/wk Required availability between March and September (flexible on start and end dates) from Wednesday through Friday.

Shift Times & Scheduling: Hours: . Based on availability and agreed upon schedule with Education Curator and Education Department – will vary depending on type of programming. Assisting educators with school program typically occur during weekdays. Special event type programs may include occasional evening and weekend hours. It is recommended that interested interns have flexible availability for Wednesday through Friday with additional days a plus.

Questions:

Email our volunteer manager at Danielle.levredge@delaware.gov

Apply