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Animal Behavior Intern Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Animal care staff on this team have a strong understanding of both natural and individual behaviors ... intern/volunteer goals Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris ...

New

PRN - PHP THERAPIST (Outpatient)

Desoto, TX · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Hickory Trail Hospital, a 86-bed behavioral health facility located just south of Dallas, has been ... Experience may be obtained as an intern. License: Must possess a state licensure: LMSW, LCSW, LPC ...

Dive Officer

Galveston, TX · On-site

$25 - $27.50/hr

... intern and VIP diving operations at Moody Gardens. Performs other duties as assigned. POSITION ... Keep DSO, Curators and staff informed of staff issues and behaviors in addition to animal health ...

Keep DOMO, Curators and staff informed of personnel issues and behaviors in addition to animal ... Supervise Dive Office Intern. This includes training in various aspects of administrative duties ...

... intern and VIP diving operations at Moody Gardens. Performs other duties as assigned. POSITION ... Keep DSO, Curators and staff informed of staff issues and behaviors in addition to animal health ...

Animal Behavior Intern information

See Texas salary details

$7

$18

$30

How much do animal behavior intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal behavior intern in Texas is $18.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.11 and $23.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal behavior intern?

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?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Behavior Intern jobs in Texas?

For Animal Behavior Intern jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Animal Behavior Intern jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Animal Behavior Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Intern job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,345 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Animal Discoveries Internship

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Glen Rose, TX • On-site

$13 - $15.50/hr

Full-time, Internship

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Animal Discoveries
Full-time Internship
Must be 21 years of age at the start of the internship!!
Application deadlines:
Spring (January-May) deadline is October 1st
Summer (May-August) deadline is March 1st
Fall (August-December) deadline is June 1st
Summary/ Purpose of Position: This position will provide care for the inhabitants of the Animal Discoveries; provide a safe, enjoyable, educational and interactive experience for our guests; and assist in maintaining the aesthetics of the ANIMAL DISCOVERIES. ANIMAL DISCOVERIES interns will also liaise with the Environmental Engagement Department to provide educational opportunities for Fossil Rim's general guests and groups as applicable. This area provides one of the few opportunities for the public to interact with Fossil Rim Staff. This internship provides a wide variety of experiences working with a variety of goats and sheep, pot-bellied pigs, African spurred and Texas tortoises, non-venomous snakes, psittacines, black-footed cats and various arthropods.
Intern Duties and Responsibilities: The essential responsibilities of the Animal Care Intern: ANIMAL DISCOVERIES includes but are not necessarily limited to the following:
  • Daily care and maintenance of animals at the ANIMAL DISCOVERIES
  • Diet preparation for all animals including proper plant identification
  • Construction and presentation of enrichment/ training programs including food, sensory, physical, occupational/ social and browse categories
  • Observe and assist as directed with medical care of the ANIMAL DISCOVERIES animals
  • Record keeping on all ANIMAL DISCOVERIES animals (Daily Care, Enrichment & Diet logs, medical & behavioral observations)
  • Help provide a safe environment for learning and entertainment
  • Assist with developing and providing educational programs to guests via exhibit talks and biofact tables. Interns will also receive the opportunity to be tours trained.
  • Constant cleaning of the ANIMAL DISCOVERIES with consideration for public aesthetics, health and impression
  • Help monitor safety of both people and animals by explaining ANIMAL DISCOVERIES rules to guests and providing friendly reminders as needed. Seek additional help from staff as needed.
  • Provide excellent customer service for guests
  • Work closely with volunteers of all ages on animal care, public education and specific projects as appointed by ANIMAL DISCOVERIES staff and Supervisor
  • Responsible for overseeing the ANIMAL DISCOVERIES when Supervisor and other ANIMAL DISCOVERIES staff are absent
  • Able to lift and carry 50lbs
  • Ability to spend up to 2/3 of the workday standing/ walking.
  • Ability to work outside all day in weather ranging from extreme heat +100 degrees to extreme cold, below freezing and in wet conditions.
  • Willingness to be trained in on using small maintenance equipment such as weed trimmer, mower, hand tools, wood shop saws
  • Ensure compliance with Employee Handbook, Risk Management Plan, all other safety rules and procedures, the company vision, mission and goals. Always seek clarifications from ANIMAL DISCOVERIES staff and Fossil Rim HR where needed.

Desired Qualities, Experience and Educational Skills:
  • Working towards or recently graduated with an Associate's or Bachelor's degree. At least two years of undergraduate college work in wildlife management, conservation biology, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Previous experience with animal care and public education beneficial but not required
  • Good communication skills
  • Basic computer literacy
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member
  • Patience with public (especially children)
  • Ability to monitor animal/ human interactions

Work Requirements: Regular and dependable attendance is required. Additional time off must be approved by ANIMAL DISCOVERIES Supervisor. Interns usually have a 5-day workweek, often requiring flexibility and ability to work weekends and holidays. Irregular scheduling in which days may exceed 8 hours. Interns will typically have weekdays off.
International students must have a J1 or B1 visa before arrival. Fossil Rim will not sponsor or assist with the visa process.
Stipend/Housing:
  • Stipend of $400/month
  • Free onsite housing in a shared living environment is mandatory during your internship.
  • Fossil Rim work vehicle to be used only on property when available

If selected, candidate must have a TB test conducted within 30 days prior to arrival for internship.
Please apply through our website. WE DO NOT accept applications via email. Click the "Apply for this Position" button, fill out the form, upload the required documents, and click the "Submit Application" button. We require a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for 3 professional references. Please specify which season you are applying for.