Interns gain hands-on experience working with both dangerous and non-dangerous reptiles while learning how a professional wildlife sanctuary operates. Training includes animal care, feeding and health monitoring, exhibit maintenance, assisting with medical care, supporting daily park operations, helping with construction and landscaping projects, safely transporting animals, and participating in educational shows, tours, and guest interactions.

This internship is highly hands-on and physically active. Interns must be comfortable working outdoors in heat, humidity, insects, and changing weather conditions. Applicants must be able to lift at least 70 pounds, think quickly in stressful situations, and safely work around wildlife and reptiles.

No prior professional experience is required. However, applicants should be comfortable working with wildlife and willing to learn reptile handling, animal care, and public education skills through hands-on training.

Interns must maintain personal health insurance, commit to the full internship duration, and be comfortable with public speaking or willing to learn. A valid driver’s license and personal transportation are preferred but not required.

Interns leave the program with real-world wildlife management experience, reptile handling skills, public education and presentation training, professional sanctuary and park operation knowledge, and mentorship from experienced handlers — preparing them for careers in animal care, conservation, education, and wildlife management.