Signage & Graphic Design Internship Fall 2026
Internship dates: Rolling Application - Minimum 3 Month Commitment
Position Summary
The Signage & Graphic Design Intern will support ZooTampa's Brand and Marketing teams in the creation, development, and implementation of environmental graphics and signage across ZooTampa. This role offers hands-on experience in experiential design-translating ZooTampa's mission into engaging, accessible, and immersive guest experiences through physical media. The intern will contribute to projects from concept to installation.
Essential Functions (including but not limited to):
- Assist in the design, revision, and production of environmental graphics and signage (interpretive, directional, regulatory, and promotional).
- Support the development of small- and large-scale signage, including layout, typography, and production-ready files.
- Help maintain and update existing signage systems across the Zoo campus, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and accessibility.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (marketing, animal care, education, and operations) to support project goals.
- Participate in project documentation, including file organization, version control, and basic production specs.
- Support fabrication and installation coordination by preparing files, mockups, or materials as needed.
- Assist with asset production for events and seasonal activations.
Qualifications, Skills, and Experience:
- Junior or senior pursuing a degree in Graphic Design, Scenic, Experiential Design, Digital Arts, or a related field.
- Beginner-Intermediate proficiency in creating vector and raster graphics using the Adobe Creative Suite or other similar programs.
- Working knowledge of typography, layout, color, and visual hierarchy.
- Interest in environmental graphics, signage systems, wayfinding, or exhibit design.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Detail-oriented with an understanding of preparing files for print and/or fabrication.
- Creative thinker with a willingness to explore ideas and iterate.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Able to work both independently and within a team environment.
- Interest in wildlife, conservation, education, or mission-driven design is preferred.
Other Requirements:
- Portfolio demonstrating design process and understanding of core design and/or fabrication principles (school or personal work accepted). Please include relevant hobbies such as, 3D printing, animal husbandry, etc.
- Ability to work 10-20 hours per week hybrid at least one day on-site is required
- Ability to work in outdoor conditions typical of west central Florida (heat, humidity, rain).
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Must be comfortable working in a variety of physical positions (standing, walking, bending, etc.).
- Conducts all activities in alignment with AZA standards, safety protocols, and animal welfare guidelines.
Additional Requirements:
- If an internship offer is made, it is contingent upon:
- Coordination with an academic institution for internship credit (if applicable).
- Successful completion of a criminal background check and required documentation.
- Proof of personal health insurance coverage.
Benefits:
This is an unpaid internship designed to provide meaningful, real-world experience in environmental graphic design within a mission-driven organization. Interns will gain:
- Hands-on experience with signage systems, experiential design, and production workflows
- Opportunities to contribute to build environments and guest-facing experiences
- Portfolio-quality work across print, digital, and environmental applications
- Mentorship from design professionals and cross-disciplinary teams
- Networking opportunities within the Zoo and broader design community
- Potential for letters of recommendation upon successful completion