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Animal Behavior Internship Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Animal Behavior Internship information

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.

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 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 jobs can I get with an animal behavior internship?

An animal behavior internship can lead to jobs such as animal trainer, zookeeper, wildlife rehabilitator, research assistant, or conservation technician. These roles often require knowledge of animal training, observation skills, and sometimes certifications in animal care or safety. Internships provide practical experience that can help qualify for entry-level positions in animal care and research settings.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Animal Behavior Internship jobs in Nebraska?

For Animal Behavior Internship jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Animal Behavior Internship jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Animal Behavior Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Internship job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Child Life Specialist - Multiple Opportunities + Bonus

Children's Hospital & Medical Center

Omaha, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description


Hiring bonus, relocation, loan repayment available
Child Life Specialist requires successful completion of an internship which meets the standards set by the Association of Child Life Specialists required prior to hire. Learn how to become certified: https://www.childlife.org/certification/become-certified
Join Children's, the region's only full-service pediatric healthcare center, and make a lasting impact as a Child Life Specialist. Be part of an engaged, compassionate team dedicated to supporting children and families while fostering a culture of inclusion, collaboration, and professional growth.
Opportunities available:
Adaptive Care
Focus on patients that need or have an Adaptive Care Plan. Provide a therapeutic, educational and recreational program for patients. Plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities which promote normal growth and development, and support the psychosocial needs of the patient and their families throughout the course of their testing/treatment or hospitalization.
Facility Dog Handler - Behavioral Health & Wellness Center*
This position provides a comprehensive animal assisted therapy facility dog program that supports the emotional, developmental, and social needs of children in a health care setting. Provide opportunities for children to gain a sense of mastery, offering play and learning experiences, and encouraging family and peer interaction through animal assisted therapy.
Inpatient/Specialty Pediatric Clinic
Provide a therapeutic, educational, and recreational program for patients. Plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities which promote normal growth and development, in conjunction with supporting the psycho-social needs of patients and their families throughout the course of their testing/treatment or hospitalization.
Education Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Child Life, Child Development, Psychology, or related field required

Experience Qualifications
  • Successful completion of an internship which meets the standards set by the Association of Child Life Specialists required upon hire
  • Required - Clinical internship with a minimum of 600 hours under the direct supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist
  • Previous experience in a hospital setting as a Child Life Specialist preferred
  • *Facility Dog Handler requires a minimum of one year of experience and experience with care of animals is preferred

Skills and Abilities
  • Requires experience with healthy children and hospitalized children generally acquired through field experience and a Child Life internship which meets the standards set by the Association of Child Life Professionals
  • Possesses interpersonal skills which enable the individual to establish professional rapport with patients and families and possess assertive skills necessary to advocate effectively for patients and families.

Licenses and Certifications
  • CCLS - Certified Child Life Specialist within two years of hire date required
  • BCLS - Basic Life Support through the American Heart Association within 180 Days Required

Children's is committed to diversity and inclusion. We are an equal opportunity employer including veterans and people with disabilities.
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