School Programs Intern Spring 2026

Title: School Programs Intern

Supervisor: School & Virtual Programs Coordinator, Outreach Coordinator, and Senior Programs Manager

Internship Timeframe: Wednesday, January 7th 2026 – Friday, May 22nd, 2026

About Butterfly Pavilion: At Butterfly Pavilion, (BP) we transform the way people think about invertebrates. These small but mighty animals that surround us are so much more than people think. They are everywhere because everything depends on them. They are the hidden heroes of the animal kingdom. As the leader in invertebrate knowledge, inspiration and connection, Butterfly Pavilion works to foster an appreciation of these critical animals by educating the public about the need to protect and care for threatened habitats globally, while conducting research for solutions in invertebrate conservation. Whether it is providing unique, firsthand learning experiences in our exhibits and educational programs, conducting new research that sets the standard for zoos across the country or building innovative solutions for species and habitat conservation in countries around the world, Butterfly Pavilion is leading the way in ensuring invertebrates are protected for the future.

Looking forward, we are committed to providing the most enriching experience for our audience, being recognized as a scientific authority, and being a leading educational resource on invertebrates.

Our Core Values are a large part of who we are as an organization:

• Make Science Cool
• Love What You Do
• Go Above and Beyond
• Lead Change
• Know Your Stuff
• Be Positive
• Welcome All

These aren’t just words, but words to live by here at Butterfly Pavilion.

Commitment:

• Minimum commitment is 1-2 days a week, with a total of 8-16 hours per week. Must complete 180 hours total for completion of internship. Duration of the internship is approximately 5 months
• Must be available for orientation on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026
• Must be available for presentation of project on Wednesday, May 20th, 2026

Stipend: Unpaid; school credit can be earned for this internship in most cases.

Position Summary: Butterfly Pavilion is currently seeking a creative, highly motivated and energetic individual to assist with onsite, outreach, and virtual education programming. The primary goal of the Butterfly Pavilion School Programs Internship is for students to gain knowledge and hands-on training in environmental education.

Key Skills Learned:

• Communication
  • This position will provide ample opportunity for learning to communicate with a variety of audiences, including children, adults, and other professionals
• Public Speaking
  • This position requires giving classes/presentations to large and small groups of people and will allow for learning how to project their voice, speak clearly, and engage their audience.
• Teamwork
  • This position works closely with a variety of team members including members of other departments. This internship will provide opportunities to learn how to work cooperatively and collaboratively to achieve common goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Uphold AZA accreditation standards
• Comply with USDA containment standards
• Uphold animal welfare protocols while using live animals to demonstrate science-based concepts to guests.
• Lead onsite and virtual educational programs for large and small groups of guests (school aged children).
• Meet deadlines and expectations to complete a project over the duration of the internship. Professionally present this project to Butterfly Pavilion team members at the end of the internship.

Position Qualifications and Experience:

• Pursuing a degree in biology, environmental sciences, or related fields. Recent graduates also accepted.
• Basic computer skills (word processing, spreadsheets)
• Willingness to handle animals (all training provided onsite).
• Experience or interest in customer service and communication skills.
• Comfortable interacting with guests of all ages.
• Enthusiastic and patient
• Organized and flexible
• Criminal background check.
• Drive personal vehicle to outreach programs up to 250 miles round trip from Butterfly Pavilion. Mileage will be reimbursed at the approved rate.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be available for orientation on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026
• Must be available for presentation of project on Wednesday, May 20th, 2026
• Must have reliable transportation to and from Butterfly Pavilion
• Minimum Age Requirement: Due to USDA regulations, School Programs Intern applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

Work Environment / Physical Requirements:

Work primarily involves sitting at a desk using computer for extended periods of time. May occasionally be required to walk and lift items less than 50 lbs.

Sustainable Impacts:

Your internship will have a lasting impact on yourself as well as Butterfly Pavilion. By implementing new engagement criteria, you are helping spread and inspire people about our mission; Butterfly Pavilion exists to foster an appreciation of invertebrates by educating the public about the need to protect and care for threatened habitats globally, while conducting research for solutions in invertebrate conservation.

How to Apply:

Butterfly Pavilion is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply for open positions and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty or veteran status.

Applicants must submit a Resume and Cover Letter.

Position is open until November 17th, 2025. No phone calls or drop in’s please.

Note: An offer is contingent upon passing of a criminal background check.

For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below. Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.

https://butterflies.applicantpro.com/jobs/3907449-21049.html