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Animal Behavior Research Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting ... You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting ... You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build ...

Dundee Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting ... You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting ... You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build ...

Zymo Research

Research Intern - Chemistry

Tustin, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Research Intern We are seeking a highly motivated Research Intern to join our R&D team focused on ... Investigate particle stability, dispersibility, aggregation behavior, and magnetic performance.

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Animal Behavior Research Intern information

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How much do animal behavior research intern jobs pay per month?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average monthly pay for animal behavior research intern in the United States is $6,439.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,416.67 and $7,666.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animal behavior research intern do?

An Animal Behavior Research Intern assists researchers in studying the behavior, communication, and social interactions of animals. Their responsibilities typically include observing animals, collecting and recording behavioral data, helping with experiments, and sometimes analyzing data or assisting in writing reports. Interns may work with a variety of species in laboratory, field, or zoo settings, and gain hands-on experience in scientific research. This position is ideal for students or recent graduates interested in animal science, biology, psychology, or related fields.

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

To thrive as an Animal Behavior Research Intern, you need a background in biology, psychology, or a related field, along with basic research and data analysis skills. Familiarity with behavioral observation software, statistical analysis tools (like SPSS or R), and ethical research protocols is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and patience are important soft skills for successful data collection and teamwork. These skills ensure accurate research findings, ethical animal treatment, and productive collaboration within research environments.

What are some common challenges faced by animal behavior research interns during fieldwork or data collection?

Animal Behavior Research Interns often encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular schedules and unpredictable weather conditions during fieldwork. Accurately observing and recording animal behaviors can require patience and attention to detail, as animals may not appear or behave as expected. Interns also need to adhere to strict ethical guidelines and may work in remote locations, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills to coordinate with researchers and field staff. Developing resilience and flexibility is key to overcoming these challenges and making meaningful contributions to research projects.

What is the difference between Animal Behavior Research Intern vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal Behavior Research InternAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in biology, psychology, or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; relevant certifications optional
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or wildlife facilitiesZoological parks, animal shelters, research centers
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research organizationsZoos, animal shelters, veterinary clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in animal behaviorAnimal care and husbandry tasks

The Animal Behavior Research Intern focuses on studying animal behavior through observation and data collection in research settings, often requiring a background in related fields. In contrast, the Animal Care Technician primarily handles daily care, feeding, and health monitoring of animals. Both roles are essential in animal-related industries but serve different purposes within the animal welfare and research spectrum.

What cities are hiring for Animal Behavior Research Intern jobs?

Cities with the most Animal Behavior Research Intern job openings:

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

The most popular types of Animal Behavior Research jobs are:

What states have the most Animal Behavior Research Intern jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Behavior Research Intern jobs include:

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

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

Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Research Intern job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,274 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL • On-site

Dundee Township Park District
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Dundee Township Park Districtexternal

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

 Zoo Intern 


Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting?

Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more than 160 animals while gaining valuable real-world experience. This unpaid internship is ideal for college students or recent graduates pursuing a career in zoology, animal science, or a related field.

Why Join Us?

As a Zoo Intern, you’ll work alongside experienced keepers to learn the daily operations of a zoo, including animal care, husbandry, enrichment, and guest interaction. You’ll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career.

What You’ll Do:

  • Assist keepers with daily animal care, including feeding and cleaning
  • Help prepare diets and monitor animal behavior
  • Create enrichment activities to support animal well-being
  • Assist with light maintenance and construction projects
  • Support educational presentations and special events for zoo guests
  • Keep accurate records and follow all safety protocols
  • Represent the Dundee Township Park District in a professional and positive manner
  • Complete an animal behavior research project and final zoo project

What You Bring:

  • Current college student or recent graduate (within 2 years) in Zoology or related field
  • At least 2 years of undergraduate coursework preferred
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs., bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism when working with guests and staff
  • Problem-solving ability and composure in high-stress or emergency situations
  • Spanish-speaking skills a plus!

Schedule:

This seasonal internship requires 250 hours over 10–12 weeks. Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include:

  • 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  • 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required.


In Exchange for Your Time and Talent, We Offer:

  • Select one of the following:
    • Individual Fitness Center (100-day) pass OR
    • Family Season Pass at Dolphin Cove Aquatic Center OR
    • Family Season Pass at Randall Oaks Zoo and Park 
  •  Free/discounted District programs, merchandise and concessions 
  •  Credit Union 


If you’re passionate about animals, eager to learn, and ready to contribute to a positive guest and animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!


  Please note: This is an unpaid Internship Opportunity.