Metro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Good parks, open space and program services contribute to economic development by fostering economic benefits and promoting tourism.

These eight core values guide future decisions, business and operations, and the manner in which MPT treats staff, customers and the community.
•Innovation   •Excellence   •Equity   •Inclusiveness   •Sustainability   •Accountability   •Safety   •Fun

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is dedicated to conservation, education and recreation by displaying, interpreting, and researching native Northwest wildlife and their natural habitats. The 725-acre zoological park was established in 1975 and attracts over 200,000 visitors annually. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. Northwest Trek is operated by Metro Parks Tacoma, the oldest independent park district in Washington. For more information, visit www.nwtrek.org

INTERNSHIP INFORMATION
The Zoological Internship program at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is designed to provide interns with hands-on learning opportunities in animal husbandry.  This is a unique opportunity for interns to work alongside zookeepers and gain valuable on the job training.

Pay: $0

Housing: Provided free on-site. Amenities include utilities paid, full bath, kitchen, washer & dryer, Netflix and Hulu subscription, internet access, bikes to use to travel to and from work area

Working Hours: 40 hours per week- 5 days per week total

Internship Length: 12 weeks

The Northwest Trek Wildlife Park provides the opportunity for interns to gain experience in the zoo keeping field by participating in daily animal keeper activities including animal husbandry, nutrition, record keeping, habitat modification, behavioral studies, public speaking, enrichment, and training.

Daily tasks include some strenuous activity so candidates must be in good physical condition, able to lift up to 50 lbs, and able to apply safe working practices. Interns will be trained in all areas: cats, bears, canids, small carnivores, raptors and hoof stock.

1. Have a minimum of two years of course work in a major field of study to be applied during the internship. Currently a Junior or Senior in college or a graduate with degree related to the internship.
2. Be capable of the physical requirements required to work with animals. This includes lifting heavy objects (50 lbs. +), climbing, kneeling, and working in an outdoor environment under any weather condition.
3. Ability to commit to a minimum of 480 hours (40 hours a week) for 12 weeks.
4. Have your own health insurance.
5. Have a valid driver’s license. Must be able to provide a driving abstract prior to start date.
6. Must be up to date on tetanus vaccination.
7. Interns are subject to a criminal background check.