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Animal Behavior Internship 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 Husbandry, Carnivore, Contact Areas, Herpetology, Hoofstock, Lorikeets, or Primates. Applicants may ...

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 Husbandry, Carnivore, Contact Areas, Herpetology, Hoofstock, Lorikeets, or Primates. Applicants may ...

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 Husbandry, Carnivore, Contact Areas, Herpetology, Hoofstock, Lorikeets, or Primates. Applicants may ...

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How much do animal behavior internship jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal behavior internship in the United States is $16.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $16.35 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 typically need a background in animal science, biology, or psychology, along with a keen observational ability and basic research skills. Familiarity with data collection tools, behavioral analysis software, and sometimes animal handling certifications is often required. Strong communication, patience, and attention to detail help interns effectively record observations and work within research teams. These skills are vital for accurately studying animal behavior, ensuring safety, and contributing meaningful data to the field.

What types of hands-on experience can I expect during an Animal Behavior Internship?

As an Animal Behavior Intern, you'll typically gain hands-on experience by observing animal interactions, assisting with behavioral research projects, and helping to implement enrichment activities designed to promote animal welfare. You may also participate in data collection, record-keeping, and even assist in training or socialization sessions under supervision. These responsibilities allow interns to develop practical skills in animal handling, data analysis, and teamwork while working closely with experienced animal behaviorists and other professionals.

What is an Animal Behavior Internship?

An Animal Behavior Internship is a temporary, supervised work experience where interns learn about animal behavior through hands-on activities, research, and observation. Interns may work with a variety of animals in settings such as zoos, research labs, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or animal shelters. The goal is to gain practical skills and knowledge about animal behavior, data collection, animal care, and sometimes assisting in behavioral studies. These internships are valuable for students or recent graduates interested in careers in animal science, zoology, or veterinary medicine.

Does Peta have internships?

PETA offers internships in areas such as animal advocacy, communications, and research. These internships typically require applicants to be at least 18 years old, and they may involve remote or in-office work depending on the program. The Animal Behavior Internship is not specifically associated with PETA, but related roles may be available through their programs.

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

AspectAnimal Behavior InternshipAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsOften students or recent graduates, some certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, animal behavior facilitiesAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, animal behavior programsAnimal care facilities, veterinary practices, zoos
Common Search & ComparisonYes, often compared for entry-level animal rolesYes, common alternative for animal-related careers

In summary, Animal Behavior Internships focus on research and studying animal behavior, often requiring academic background and providing experience in labs or research settings. Animal Care Technicians primarily handle daily animal care in shelters or zoos, with less emphasis on research. Both roles are entry-level but serve different career paths within the animal industry.

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Animal Behavior Internship jobs near you
Animal Care Internship

Animal Care Internship

Animal Rescue League Of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Animal Rescue League of Iowa rating

3.3

Company rating: 3.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

662nd of 667 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Animal Care Internship (Unpaid) - Summer 2026

Your Mission:
To advance the mission and programs of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) by volunteering time and effort to support the Animal Care teams while gaining valuable hands-on knowledge and experience in animal welfare and care practices in a shelter environment.

What You’ll Do:
As an Animal Care Intern, you’ll play an important role in supporting the daily care, enrichment, and wellbeing of animals at ARL Main, ARL Animal Services, and the Second Chance Ranch. You’ll assist with cleaning and maintaining animal housing areas, help monitor animal health and behavior, and immediately report any concerns to staff. You’ll learn to operate laundry, cleaning, and dishwashing equipment, help ensure all supplies and spaces are well maintained, and contribute to keeping the shelter environment clean, safe, and welcoming.

Throughout the internship, you’ll complete rotations with the leaders at ARL Main, ARL Animal Services, and the Second Chance Ranch to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ARL’s shelter operations. You’ll also complete a research-based educational project designed to deepen your understanding of animal welfare and the ARL’s mission, which you’ll present at the conclusion of your internship. In all aspects of your work, you’ll support efforts to reduce stress and disease through compassionate and purposeful handling of animals while adhering to ARL policies and safety protocols.

What You Bring:
You have a genuine interest in animal care and a desire to make a difference for animals in need. Previous experience working with animals or in a customer service environment is preferred, but not required. You are dependable, self-motivated, and eager to learn in a hands-on environment. The ability to work in a fast-paced setting, perform basic mathematical skills, and stay positive under pressure will serve you well in this role. A commitment of 90 days is required, with a minimum of four hours on-site at least five days a week.

Working Conditions:
This position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and to stand or sit for extended periods of time. Work may involve exposure to animal waste, odors, contagious diseases, bites, scratches, and a moderate noise level. You’ll be part of a supportive, mission-driven team where every day offers new opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact in the lives of animals.

Why This Internship Matters:
This internship is an opportunity to gain meaningful, real-world experience in animal welfare, build professional skills, and contribute to the care and comfort of hundreds of animals each day. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of shelter operations, animal behavior, and the role compassion plays in every aspect of our work while helping to further the ARL’s mission to change lives, one animal at a time.