2026 Summer Education Intern - OKC Zoo

Bring your curiosity. Bring your drive. We’ll bring the experience. Join the OKC Zoo for our Summer 2026 Internship Program and get hands-on opportunities to learn, lead, and leave your mark while making a meaningful impact.

Employment Status: Full-time Temporary

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Duration: 12 Weeks- Beginning on May 16th 2026

Schedule: Monday-Friday

Compensation: $14.00

Department: Conservation, Education, Science

Direct Supervisor: Assistant Director of Education

Primary Work Location: Zoo setting, both indoors and outdoors.

Certification: Completion of OKC Zoo HSI training within first two weeks of employment. Ability to complete CPR/1 st Aid certification within 30 days of hire.

Other: This position is subject to pre-employment and/or periodic background checks and drug testing.

Internship Summary: This internship is designed to be an entry point for someone seeking a career in conservation education. Education interns will work alongside education staff to teach lessons supporting the Zoo’s mission, vision, and values. Helping education staff facilitate fun and safe learning experiences to help program participants gain an appreciation for wildlife and the natural world. Interns will also gain training on guest education and public interaction to enhance visitor experience.

Development Outcomes

An intern in this position will complete assigned tasks, resulting in the following learning outcomes.

• Intern will develop an understanding of the essential role that zoos and aquariums play in conservation
• Demonstrate an understanding of animal biology, behavior, taxonomy, wildlife conservation, and ecological concepts.
• Familiarity with curriculum development for educational programs, focusing on age-appropriate materials for different audiences.
• Learn and enhance classroom management techniques.
• Teach engaging educational programs that capture visitors' interest. Enhance ability to interact positively and effectively with diverse groups of visitors, students, and colleagues.
• Strengthen ability to deliver captivating educational programs that effectively engage diverse groups of visitors, students, and colleagues
• Interns will learn the basics of guest interaction in a zoo or aquarium setting, including how to convey educational information and effectively communicate conservation efforts
• Cultivate comfortable and effective public speaking skills for presenting educational programs to varied audiences.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Commitment of 40 hours Monday-Friday for 12 weeks.
• Current college or graduate student pursuing an applicable degree, recent graduate of an applicable degree, or relevant education with an interest in transitioning into an applicable career.
• Interest in pursuing a career in conservation education or informal education
• Have the ability to work well in a busy and fast-paced environment
• Provide own housing and transportation