Signage & Graphic Design Internship Summer 2026

Signage & Graphic Design Internship Summer 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