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Animal Conservation Internships Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Santa Barbara Zoo

Animal Keeper

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$23.90 - $26.30/hr

Actively participate in on-grounds or local field conservation activities, contributing to ... Supervises volunteers and interns * Shares critical information, best practices, and procedures on ...

SFZOO

Field Conservation Manager

San Francisco, CA

$71K/yr

... of animal care, operational excellence, and conservation outcomes. ESSENTIAL DUTIES ... Specialists, interns, volunteers, and temporary staff, including recruitment, interviewing ...

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How much do animal conservation internships jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal conservation internships in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect during an animal conservation internship?

Animal conservation interns typically assist with a variety of tasks, such as wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, data collection, and public education initiatives. Depending on the organization, you might spend time in the field observing animals, recording behavioral data, or helping rehabilitate injured wildlife. Interns often work closely with conservation biologists, researchers, and volunteers, gaining hands-on experience while contributing to ongoing conservation projects. The role can be physically demanding and may require flexibility, but it offers a unique opportunity to develop practical skills and make a meaningful impact.

What is the difference between Animal Conservation Internships vs Wildlife Research Assistant?

AspectAnimal Conservation InternshipsWildlife Research Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or relevant coursework, sometimes a degree in biology or environmental scienceSimilar; often requires a degree or ongoing studies in biology, ecology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentField sites, conservation projects, NGOs, zoos, or wildlife reservesResearch labs, field sites, conservation organizations, universities
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, conservation groups, zoos, government agenciesResearch institutions, universities, conservation agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Animal Conservation Internships and Wildlife Research Assistants both focus on wildlife and habitat preservation. Internships typically offer entry-level experience in conservation projects, while Research Assistants often support scientific studies and data collection. Both roles require relevant education and work in similar environments, making them closely related but distinct in scope and responsibilities.

What is an animal conservation internship?

Animal conservation internships are temporary positions designed to provide hands-on experience in wildlife protection, habitat restoration, research, and public education. These internships are typically offered by conservation organizations, wildlife reserves, or research institutions. Interns may assist with animal monitoring, data collection, community outreach, or fieldwork, depending on the program. The goal is to help interns gain practical skills, contribute to conservation efforts, and explore career paths in environmental and wildlife sciences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in animal conservation internships, and why are they important?

To thrive in Animal Conservation Internships, a background in biology, ecology, or environmental science—often with coursework or volunteer experience in conservation—is essential. Familiarity with field research tools, data collection software, and sometimes GIS mapping systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication skills help interns engage with diverse teams and local communities. These abilities are vital for contributing meaningfully to conservation projects and ensuring the success of fieldwork in challenging environments.
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What cities are hiring for Animal Conservation Internships jobs? Cities with the most Animal Conservation Internships job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Animal Conservation Internships jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Conservation Internships jobs are:
Animal Conservation Internships jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Conservation Internships job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,783 per year, or $21 per hour.

Sea Cliffs Intern - Fall 2026

Wildlife Conservation Society

New York, NY

$2.0K/wk

Internship

Re-posted 13 days ago

Wildlife Conservation Society rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Sea Cliffs Intern - Fall 2026

Location: New York Aquarium

Department: Animal

Duration: Fall 2026

Schedule: 3 days per week for 20 weeks, 4 days per week for 15 weeks, or 5 days per week for 12 weeks.

Stipend: $2,000 total stipend to be paid as one lump sum upon successful completion of the position, less applicable taxes.

Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by August 15, 2026. The position may be filled before the deadline. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Overview: 

This internship is designed to be an important entrypoint for someone looking for a career working with animals. Interns will receive a well rounded training course in animal care and training while working alongside the animal care staff to assist with the husbandry of marine mammals (sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters) and penguins. Interns will also complete a final project.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Interns will learn the daily husbandry and care routines for marine mammals and penguins
  • Interns will learn about effective enrichment including how to schedule and administer enrichment to collection animals
  • Interns will learn the basics of operant conditioning and applied behavior analysis
  • Interns will learn the basics of guest interaction in a zoo or aquarium setting including how to convey educational information and effectively communicate conservation efforts.
  • Interns will learn about the essential role that zoos and aquariums play in conservation.
  • Interns will participate in classes on animal training and complete an animal training shaping plan.
  • Interns may learn to perform an educational narration

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