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Animal Behavior Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nashville Zoo

Animal Care Internship

Nashville, TN

$700/wk

Animal Care Interns will be placed in one of the following areas Aquatics, Avian, Behavioral ... INTERN TRAINING: All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation ...

Nashville Zoo

Animal Care Internship

Nashville, TN · On-site

$700/wk

Animal Care Interns will be placed in one of the following areas Aquatics, Avian, Behavioral ... INTERN TRAINING: All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation ...

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How much do animal behavior intern jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal behavior intern in the United States is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Behavior Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Behavior Intern, you need a background in animal science, psychology, or biology, along with basic understanding of animal behavior principles. Familiarity with data collection tools, behavioral observation software, and sometimes animal handling certifications is often required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and patience are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately assessing animal behaviors and contributing to research or care programs in professional settings.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect as an Animal Behavior Intern, and how do these contribute to my professional development?

As an Animal Behavior Intern, you'll typically be involved in observing animal behaviors, assisting in behavioral enrichment programs, and collecting data to support ongoing research or animal care initiatives. These experiences provide valuable exposure to both the scientific and practical aspects of animal behavior in settings like zoos, research facilities, or wildlife sanctuaries. Working closely with experienced animal behaviorists and animal care staff, you'll gain insight into animal welfare practices and develop skills in behavioral observation, data analysis, and teamwork. This hands-on learning is an excellent foundation for future roles in animal care, research, or further academic study.

What does an Animal Behavior Intern do?

An Animal Behavior Intern assists with observing, recording, and analyzing animal behaviors in various settings such as zoos, research centers, or animal shelters. Their duties may include helping with behavioral enrichment programs, collecting data, assisting with research projects, and supporting animal care staff. This internship provides hands-on experience and helps interns learn about animal welfare, training, and research methods under the supervision of experienced professionals.

What is the difference between Animal Behavior Intern vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal Behavior InternAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in animal behavior, biology, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in animal care
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, zoos, or animal behavior labsAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or pet care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, zoosAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, pet stores
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in animal behavior researchLearning about animal care and handling roles

The Animal Behavior Intern role focuses on studying and understanding animal behavior, often within research or academic settings, requiring relevant coursework or degrees. In contrast, the Animal Care Technician primarily handles daily animal care tasks in shelters or clinics. Both roles are entry-level but serve different industry needs and environments.

More about Animal Behavior Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Behavior Intern jobs? Cities with the most Animal Behavior Intern job openings:
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Animal Behavior Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Intern job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 31% Full Time, and 61% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,739 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Animal Welfare Intern

Lincoln Park Zoological Society

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.
General Summary
Lincoln Park Zoo's Animal Welfare Science Program is seeking a motivated, enthusiastic intern to support data collection efforts at the zoo. This internship will involve conducting behavior observations of Asian small-clawed otters as part of a multi-institutional research study being led by Lincoln Park Zoo and supported by a grant from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The intern will primarily be reviewing video recordings of otters recorded at zoos and aquariums around the USA to score animal behavior data. In addition, the intern will assist with in-person behavior observations at Lincoln Park Zoo using the ZooMonitor app and support data analysis.
This paid internship position is scheduled to start September 1st and will be 4.5 months in duration. The position will be in-person only and part-time (20 hours per week, weekdays only). Remote work and weekend availability cannot be accommodated for this internship.
Essential Job Function
  • Conduct computer-based animal behavior observations from pre-recorded videos
  • Assist with in-person animal behavior observations using the ZooMonitor app
  • Review training materials and pass inter-observer reliability tests
  • Create basic, summary data visualizations
  • Regularly communicate progress with the Primary Investigator

Learning Objectives
  • Learn scientific methods for observing animal behavior
  • Gain in-depth knowledge of Asian small-clawed otter behavior
  • Become proficient using software tools (e.g., ZooMonitor app) to record behavior
  • Develop skills in analyzing animal behavior data

Additional Responsibilities
  • May assist with other on-grounds behavior research
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Possess strong detail-oriented and critical-thinking skills
  • Possess strong computer, organizational (project management), and communication skills (written and spoken)
  • Ability to work independently, including managing time and prioritizing tasks efficiently
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
  • Previous experience with animal behavior research is preferred

Education Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree preferred but will consider currently enrolled Junior or Senior-level students
  • Preferred major in Biology, Animal Behavior, Psychology, Zoology or other related field

Our Commitment
Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All.
LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS
  • Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
  • Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
  • Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
  • Quarterly staff mingle events and "LPZooU" training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
  • A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

Salary: $17.00/hr

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