Friends of the National Zoo’s Department of Conservation Education and Volunteer Engagement is seeking a Volunteer Management Intern who is interested in growing skills in volunteer management, program development and conservation education. The Intern will work closely with Volunteer Program Specialists to provide support and supervision for teen volunteers at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, an AZA-accredited facility that reaches over 2 million annual visitors.
Intern may assist on one or more of the following upcoming projects:- Teen volunteer trainings
- Informal educational interpretation at Kids’ Farm
- Volunteer and visitor evaluation
- New and ongoing conservation education initiatives
- Potential to cross-train the Visitor Education Internship
- Participate in FONZ volunteer interpreter training
- Assist in training teen volunteers
- Supervise several teen volunteers each day
- Maintain volunteer records and schedule
- Assist in maintaining program materials and exhibit components
- Assistance with visitor education events
- Assess and coach teen volunteers as needed
- Other duties as assigned
Education: Minimum of two years of college at an accredited institution; background in science, education or museum studies preferred. Others are encouraged to apply and indicate how the position meets their education/career goals.
Abilities/Skills:
- Interest and enthusiasm for conservation and wildlife education
- Experience in managing teens or volunteers
- Ability to understand and interpret scientific information
- Excellent organizational skills
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Creativity and professionalism
- Diligence and attention to detail
- Willingness to take initiative and motivation to seek new learning opportunities
- Flexibility and a good sense of humor
- Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat
- Zoo, aquarium or other museum related experience preferred
- Must be comfortable actively working outside in all weather
- Must be able to lift 30 pounds
- Cover letter
- Resume or CV summarizing education and experience
- Names and contact details of two professional references
- Availability