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Animal Behavior Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Zoom Room Winter Park

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Intern - Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer

Winter Park, FL · On-site

$15/hr

... Intern to assist our professional training team. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain ... animal behavior and training - Patience, enthusiasm, and good communication skills - Previous ...

Zoom Room Winter Park

Be Seen First

Intern - Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer

Winter Park, FL · On-site

$15/hr

... Intern to assist our professional training team. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain ... animal behavior and training - Patience, enthusiasm, and good communication skills - Previous ...

Lee County, FL

Animal Care Specialist

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$17/hr

Observe animal behavior to assess adoption readiness * Assist with medical tasks and animal ... Medical benefits may be offered to On-Call, Temporary, Seasonal, and Intern employees who meet the ...

Nashville Zoo

Education Internship

Nashville, TN

$700/wk

... behavior This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field ... INTERN TRAINING: All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation ...

Nashville Zoo

Education Internship

Nashville, TN · On-site

$700/wk

... behavior This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field ... INTERN TRAINING: All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation ...

Nashville Zoo

Education Internship

Nashville, TN

$700/wk

... behavior This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field ... INTERN TRAINING: All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$19 - $26/hr

... behavior, and welfare. Students will work directly with ongoing research projects and gain ... Location: Department of Animal Science, Penn State University Responsibilities Intern ...

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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:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior jobs? The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Behavior Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Behavior Intern jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Behavior Intern jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Behavior Intern jobs are:
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 Care Internship

Animal Care Internship

Nashville Zoo

Nashville, TN • On-site

$700/wk

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM ANIMAL CARE INTERNSHIP | Fall 2026


Overview:

Animal Care Interns will be placed in one of the following areas Aquatics, Avian, Behavioral Husbandry, Carnivore, Contact Areas, Herpetology, Hoofstock, Lorikeets, or Primates. Applicants may indicate preference of department, but final placement is assigned by the Zoo.
Interns will observe a variety of species across the Zoo, assist with daily care routines, and collect data that will help animal care professionals make evidence-based decisions regarding the animals' well-being.


TIME COMMITMENT: This is a full-time position, 30-40 hours a week, for ~12 weeks. There are no opportunities to work overtime.


RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assist with daily husbandry care, including cleaning habitats, managing diets, and assisting with enrichment and training.
Monitor animal health and behavior and report observations to animal care staff.
Prepare diets and assist in feeding routines for select species under supervision.
Maintain accurate records related to animal care and observations.
Support zoo staff with habitat and facility maintenance, ensuring clean and safe environments for the animals.
Engage in hands-on learning experiences, including enrichment design, training sessions, and animal handling (as appropriate for the species).
Answer visitors' questions about animals and the Zoo, helping to educate the public on conservation efforts
Complete one project highlighting intern's interest and take aways from the experience and benefitting intern's department


APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:

Must be at least 18 years of age
Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads
Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior
This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field
Excellent communication and organizational skills
Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.


INTERN TRAINING:


All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation, Education Orientation, and a 4 presentation professional development series throughout the course of their internship.


BENEFITS:
Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week
$700 living stipend for each 12-week term
Housing provided if outside of a 40 mile radius of Nashville Zoo
Provides opportunities to learn proper management of animals in human care
Observe and participate in husbandry, training, and additional care for our resident animals
Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution
Professional development series highlighting topics such as guest engagement, resume building, etc.

Pre-Employment Requirements:


Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening.
Provide proof of a negative TB test.
Provide proof of a valid driver's license.


APPLICATION PROCESS - Interested candidates should complete the application HERE and attach the following documents:
Resume
Cover Letter
(2) Letters of Recommendation

Additionally, we ask you to complete this anonymous survey.

Apply