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Animal Behavior Internship information

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$5

$16

$23

How much do animal behavior internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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 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.

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.
More about Animal Behavior Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Behavior Internship jobs? Cities with the most Animal Behavior Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior jobs? The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Animal Behavior Internship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Behavior Internship jobs are:
Animal Behavior Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,166 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Animal Operations Internship- Fall 2026

Dallas Zoo Management

Dallas, TX • On-site

Internship

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description
Animal Operations Internship - Fall 2026
The Dallas Zoo offers an exciting 12-week Animal Operations Internship for students or recent graduates interested in zookeeping or animal behavior. Interns will work 20-24 hours per week, assisting animal operations staff with daily husbandry and habitat maintenance. Opportunities are available across all animal areas, including African ungulates, elephants, birds, carnivores, hippos, primates, reptiles, and more.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist with animal care, including feeding, cleaning, enrichment, and record-keeping.
  • Participate in public presentations and keeper tours.
  • Learn about zoo operations, conservation, and career development.
  • Follow zoo safety protocols and work in varying weather conditions.

Qualifications:
  • Currently enrolled or recently graduated from an accredited college in a related field (Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, etc.).
  • Available 20-24 hours per week, including weekends and holidays.
  • Able to perform physical tasks (lifting up to 50 lbs., walking, standing, etc.).
  • Must be a U.S. National.
  • Must pass a background check and provide a negative TB test.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license and reliable transportation required.

This is an unpaid internship. Interns must provide their own housing and transportation. The zoo will assist with documentation for university credit if needed.
This is a hands-on experience in zoo operations and to contribute to wildlife conservation efforts.
Application Deadline: 1 August 2026
Fall Internship Start Date: 22 September 2026

Apply