Internship Program
The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium's Internship Program offers individuals a unique opportunity to become actively involved in the mission of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Internships provide college students or recent college graduates practical experience in a zoological environment while gaining valuable knowledge related to his/ her career goals. This exciting and challenging atmosphere offers you the opportunity to supplement and apply your classroom knowledge.
Typically, internships are 3 to 4 months long with a 32-40 hour workweek. Interns must be flexible with their schedule and have the ability to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
All positions are unpaid with no housing provided. If accepted into the program you must provide proof of a negative TB test given within the last year (does not apply to Education Internships). Interns are accepted each academic quarter for most positions. Since the summer season is the most competitive, we encourage interested students to consider other times of the year.
Aquarium
(North & South Pacific)
Education
(Academic & Community Programs)
Education
(Camp Programs - Summer Only)
Education
(Marine Discovery Center - Summer Only)
Rocky Shores/Tundra
Veterinary Student Preceptorship - Please contact the Internship Coordinator for information about this opportunity.
Veterinary Technician
Wild Wonder Theater Animal Handling
(Summer Only)
Download an Application Packet for the internship position that you have chosen to apply for. Submit your completed application and all required support materials to:
Email: cathleen.mcconnell@pdza.org
Regular Mail:
Internship Coordinator
Education Department
5400 North Pearl Street
Tacoma, WA 98407











