Administrative Internship (Summer)

The Utica Zoo is a non-profit organization and – as such – requires a lot of administrative work to keep it going. If you want to learn the ins and outs of what makes the Utica Zoo tick, definitely look into applying for one of our Business Internships. 

Business/HR Intern

Assists with the daily operations of Zoo business. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated, self-starter looking to gain experience in Business, Non-Profit Administration, Human Resources, or related field.

Duties/Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

  • Assist in managing and coordinating administrative functions for the Executive Director
  • Assist with word processing, collating, database entry, general office work/projects
  • Assist with writing grants for short and long-term fund-raising.
  • Support with monitoring the budget, analyzing variances to budget, and making recommendations for adjustments as needed.
  • Help with researching, developing, writing, and updating policies, procedures, methods, and guidelines; communicating and enforcing organization values.
  • Provide exceptional and engaging customer service in all interactions
  • Other projects as assigned

Skills/Qualifications:

  • Requires a minimum of 1 year of completed undergraduate study
  • Interest in the fields of business and non-profit administration
  • A commitment to strict confidentiality
  • Self-motivated and detail-oriented; strong analytical, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities; ability to work independently as well as on a team; flexibility
  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Customer service experience strongly preferred
  • Proficiency with MS Word and Excel

Marketing Intern

Assists with the daily operations of the Communications/Public Relations department. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated, self-starter looking to gain experience in Public Relations, Graphic Design, or related field.

Duties/Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

  • Assist in managing information on Zoo Website, and social media pages
  • Assist with writing and distributing press releases, PSAs, and other media contact
  • Assist with maintaining all databases pertaining to donor management.
  • Assist with graphic design for signage on grounds, maps, brochures, event posters, newsletter, advertising, and program books, ads for web and print and other promotional materials
  • Help produce and collect photography necessary for use in zoo materials.
  • Provide exceptional and engaging customer service in all interactions
  • Other projects as assigned

Skills/Qualifications:

  • Detail-oriented and the ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing, and edit work for spelling and grammar
  • Highly skilled with Microsoft Office and graphic design software
  • Knowledge of social media and web design
  • Ability to accomplish goals with energy and drive
  • Positive attitude and strong work ethic with the desire to work as a team member

Special Events/Visitor Experience Intern

Assists with the planning, execution and follow through of events held at the Utica Zoo. Also, assist with any visitor experience needs and services.The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated, self-starter looking to gain experience in hosting non-profit fundraisers, special events, securing donations, or related fields.

Duties/Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

  • Assists with recruitment efforts of donations for events, including silent auction items, supplies, and services
  • Administrative duties such as filing, making and returning phone calls, and organizing donations
  • Assists with securing food vendors, wineries, farmers market vendors, and volunteers
  • Assists in creating accurate and complete databases compiling a master list of all parts of each event
  • Assists with creation and distribution of thank you letters for volunteers, donors, and vendors
  • Reconciling ticket sales on site and at other locations
  • Providing exceptional and engaging customer service in all interactions
  • Attends event meetings regarding planning and implementing the events; the night of the event being on call for duties as needed
  • Assists in breaking down the event
  • Conduct and assess face-to-face surveys with visitors as they enter/exit Zoo
  • Other projects as assigned

Skills/Qualifications:

  • Requires minimum of 1 years of completed undergraduate study
  • Interest in the fields of Special Events, fundraiser planning and coordination
  • Self-motivated and detail-oriented; strong analytical, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities; ability to work independently as well as on a team; flexibility; creativeness
  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Customer service experience strongly preferred
  • Proficiency with MS Word, Excel and Publisher

How to Apply

Interns are accepted on a rolling basis. Resumes with appropriate cover letters should be sent to HR@uticazoo.org.  Mail:  Utica Zoo, One Utica Zoo Way, Utica, NY, 13501.  Fax: 315-738-0475.  Preferred contact is through email.  The cover letter should include your areas of interest, goals, and what you can offer the zoo.

The Utica Zoo will close at 3pm on 12/31 and will reopen with normal hours on 1/1!