The Association of Zoos and Aquariums is seeking a Summer Intern to join our Conservation, Management, and Welfare Sciences team. This internship offers a valuable opportunity to gain experience in conservation, management, and animal wellbeing in the zoo and aquarium field by assisting with resource, development, internal data management, and grant processing. The internship is structured to provide hands-on learning through project-based assignments, training, and ongoing feedback.
This internship is based in our Silver Spring, MD headquarters and is eligible for our hybrid or remote work schedule. Interns must be based in DC, MD, or VA for the duration of the internship. This internship will run 10-12 weeks in the summer, from June to August. The core internship cohort dates are June 8 – August 14. Start and end dates are flexible based on the intern’s summer calendar.
Responsibilities
• Assist in the identification of available volunteer resources for AZA members and in the analysis of potential gaps to inform future resource development.
• Assist in the development of volunteer resources (ie., Conservation impact and Animal Welfare Indicators Guides, Species Sourcing Recommendations List).
• Enter data from member applications into AZA’s grant management system for Conservation and Animal Wellbeing teams.
• Assist with organizing departmental data, and updating and reviewing data housed in AZA’s associated databases (ie. ACMs, Conservation and Wellbeing Grant data, ARCS).
Qualifications
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a college or university program in Data Science, Life & Environmental Science, or related fields with strong quantitative and data analysis training.
• Interest or experience with zoos and aquariums is preferred.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Experience cleaning and analyzing large datasets using software (Excel, SQL, etc.)
• Experience collecting and exporting data using software (Microsoft Forms, Survey Monkey, Google Forms)
• Ability to write reports and present results to audiences with diverse expertise.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
This is a paid internship with an hourly rate of $18, with interns working up to 40 hours per week.
AZA offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible positions, including but not limited to health insurance options, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. To encourage work/life balance, AZA also offers a variety of paid time off plans including vacation, sick, and personal time; holidays; and parental leave. AZA also offers hybrid work schedules and flexible work weeks for eligible positions. We regularly review our benefits to ensure they remain competitive and responsive to employee feedback.
AZA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic. We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.
Created at 2026-03-22 21:01:40
Updated at 2026-03-22 21:04:27
Location: Remote (Maryland, USA, Virginia, USA); Hybrid (Silver Spring, MD);
About Association of Zoos and Aquariums:
About us
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA represents 254 facilities in the United States and overseas, which collectively draw more than 200 million visitors every year. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums meet the highest standards in animal care and welfare and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience. In addition, they dedicate millions of dollars annually to support scientific research, conservation, and education programs.
Our Vision
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums envisions a world where animals thrive because all people respect, value, and conserve wildlife and wild places.
Our Mission
AZA serves our members in advancing animal wellbeing, public engagement, and the conservation of wildlife and wild places, setting the global standard of excellence.
Why you should work here
Working at the Association of Zoos & Aquariums means being part of a community that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. You will have the opportunity to work with passionate individuals who are committed to advancing animal wellbeing and conservation efforts. By joining our team, you will contribute to important initiatives that educate the public, protect wildlife, and inspire future generations. If you are driven by a desire to make a difference, AZA is the place for you.
Open positions:
• Association of Zoos and Aquariums - Intern, Conservation Management & Welfare Science
• Association of Zoos and Aquariums - Intern, Aquatic Population Sustainability
• Association of Zoos and Aquariums - Director, Federal Affairs (Conservation) (Copy)
• Association of Zoos and Aquariums - Director, Federal Affairs (Appropriations) (Copy)
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