Chimpanzee Animal Care Intern Summer1 2025 w/housing

Internship Location

2031 Lowery Road, Morganton, GA 30560

Focus of the Internship

Intern will gain experience providing direct care to chimpanzees at the sanctuary. The intern will also complete an independent project that can meet the requirements of the intern’s academic institution (if applicable).

Learning Opportunities

• Knowledge of Project Chimps mission and values
• Exposure to the operations of a chimpanzee sanctuary
• Learn various aspects on how to care for captive chimpanzees, including: husbandry, enrichment, medical, behavioral research, behavioral training, and socializations
• Gain knowledge and educational experience in chimpanzee behavior and natural history
• Attend and participate in various sanctuary committees

Orientation/Training

• Orientation will be scheduled the first day of the internship and includes the following: history and tour of Project Chimps, description of rules, safety protocols, chimpanzee behavior, and chimpanzee care protocols. Intern should attend the orientation wearing closed, rubber-soled shoes.
• Intern will be given a manual and will be trained on the particular aspects of their role.
• Intern will receive online training via CollaborNation. Once an intern finishes the required courses, they retain access to the full library of online courses.

Intern Responsibilities

• Clean enclosures which may include removing waste, raking, sweeping, scrubbing, and climbing ladders up to 8 feet
• Launder bedding and towels
• Wash/sanitize enrichment daily
• Assist with enrichment and meal preparation
• Resident interns complete a weekly shift cleaning and tending to the intern residence
• Attend weekly meetings with supervisor and mentor
• Identify and develop an independent project. The project can meet the requirements of the intern’s academic institution; present completed project in a written format and/or PowerPoint at a staff meeting at the end of the internship term

Expected Environmental Conditions

Some of the work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions which can include extreme heat and cold. (There is access to air conditioning/heat, restrooms, a kitchen, break room, drinking water, coffee, and computers as needed.)

Qualifications/Requirements for Intern Applicants

• Must be at least 18 years old

Restrictions

• Must arrive on time for shifts
• Must wear closed, rubber-soled shoes. Intern shirts will be provided by Project Chimps and a dress code must be followed at all times.
• Must learn and follow all guidelines and policies of Project Chimps and follow directions given by staff
• Candidates must submit the required paperwork and pass a background check before being assigned. At least two letters of recommendation must be submitted with the application form when applying for an internship. Copies of any academic requirements should also be submitted. International interns are solely responsible for obtaining any required visas.
• Should have access to a computer and ability to login into an online volunteer communication site to receive updates
• Current TB test, Flu shot, MMR, Tetanus, Hep A, and Hep B shots required, unless you are medically exempt.

Internship Start Date

Summer Term 1 2025: May 12th- August 1st 

Summer Term 2 2025: June 16th- September 5th

Internship Time Commitment

• 12 weeks up to 6 months, up to 40 hours per week
• Interns living off site are required to work a minimum of 24 hours per week
• Interns living on site are required to work a minimum of 32 hours a week

Internship Scheduling Guidelines

Internships are available year-round. Interns will be assigned to shifts that are between 4-8 hours in length between the hours of 8 am and 4:30 pm.

Additional Information

• This is an unpaid position. On-site housing may be available for interns committing to at least 32 hours per week and will be discussed after receipt of the initial application; please note your interest in housing accommodations in your cover letter. Housing is co-ed, and has two bedrooms, kitchen, living room, and is equipped with internet. Food must be provided by the intern if staying on-site. Parking is available for interns with vehicles. The property and house are non-smoking. Staff or volunteers will provide interns with weekly trips into town for grocery shopping.
• Interns will have no physical contact with the chimpanzees.