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Animal Intern Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

$45K/yr

MVES and OPVES offers a rotating small animal internship with emphasis on internal medicine ... Intern candidates should possess an excellent work ethic and enthusiasm. Motivated individuals who ...

$50K/yr

MVES and OPVES offers a small animal surgical internship position with emphasis on surgical ... Surgical intern candidates should possess an excellent work ethic and enthusiasm. Motivated ...

Animal Intern information

What is an animal intern?

An Animal Intern is typically a student or recent graduate who works temporarily at an animal care facility, such as a zoo, veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or wildlife center, to gain hands-on experience with animals. Interns assist with daily animal care tasks, learn about animal behavior and health, and may help with educational programs or research. These internships provide valuable practical training for those interested in careers in animal science, veterinary medicine, or wildlife conservation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Intern, you generally need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, along with practical experience handling and caring for animals. Familiarity with animal care tools, data entry systems, and sometimes certifications in animal handling or first aid are often required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for animal welfare help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure the safety, health, and proper care of animals while supporting smooth operations in veterinary or research environments.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect as an animal intern, and how do these contribute to my professional development?

As an Animal Intern, you'll typically participate in a variety of hands-on experiences such as assisting with animal care routines, preparing diets, cleaning enclosures, observing medical procedures, and sometimes aiding in enrichment activities. These tasks provide foundational knowledge in animal husbandry, welfare, and basic veterinary practices. This exposure is invaluable for building practical skills, expanding your understanding of animal behavior, and networking with professionals in the field, all of which can open doors to advanced roles in animal care, research, or veterinary medicine.

What is the difference between Animal Intern vs Animal Technician?

AspectAnimal InternAnimal Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some may have related courseworkAssociate's degree or certification in animal care or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, shelters, research labs, zoosVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research organizations, zoosVeterinary practices, animal care facilities, research labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in animal careLearning about professional animal care careers

Animal Interns typically gain hands-on experience in animal care environments as part of their educational or training programs. Animal Technicians are more experienced professionals with specialized training or certifications, performing routine animal care and assisting veterinarians. While both roles involve working with animals, Interns are usually in learning phases, whereas Technicians are more established in their careers.

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

The most popular types of Animal jobs in Kansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Animal Intern jobs in Kansas?

For Animal Intern jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Intern - Animal Keeper

City of Manhattan Kansas

Manhattan, KS • On-site

$12/hr

Internship

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

(Seasonal, Non-Exempt)
Starting Wage: $12.00/hour, and College Course Credit
Closing Date: Open until filled; may close at any time
Shift/Workdays and Hours: Variable
Must be 18 years or older
How to Apply: Using the "apply" button on this page, please complete the required online application. For general questions about the position, contact Parks and Recreation at 785-587-2757.
Job Summary
The Animal Keeper Intern will be responsible for assisting Animal Keepers with routine husbandry tasks to provide day-to-day care of a wide variety of multi-class and multi-genera animals. Cleans and maintains animal, service, and public areas of the park. May interact with the public by giving public talks and answering questions.
Job Duties
  • Assists with general labor duties related to the care of multi-class and multi-genera animals, including diet preparation, animal feeding, cleaning exhibits, maintaining service and public areas.
  • Lifts hay bales, grain sacks and other equipment as needed.
  • Performs ground maintenance in animal areas and around the zoo.
  • Uses and wears applicable personal protective equipment required in hazardous environments and emergency situations.
  • Operates a variety of tools and equipment including weed eater, saws, basic hand tools and basic power tools.
  • Operates a vehicle, such as dump trucks and motorized carts as needed.
  • Maintains records, maintenance logs, and activity records via the use of mobile and stationary electronic devices such as computers, tablets, etc.
  • Communicates orally and in writing, including using the telephone and two-way radio.
  • Represents the City of Manhattan professionally and courteously with the public and other City employees.
  • Assists supervisors and other departmental personnel in other projects for the benefit of the City and/or department.
  • Comprehends and learns standardized work procedures and practices.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Required Knowledge, Skills & Additional Qualifications
  • High School diploma, GED or equivalent.
  • Selected candidate(s) may be required to pass a TB test.
  • Valid Driver's license.
  • Must be 18 years or older.

Preferred Knowledge & Skills
  • Six (6) months experience in domestic or exotic animal care.
  • One (1) year of college education, or fifteen (15) hours of college credit in an animal/wildlife, environmental/conservation, natural resources, education, psychology, or sociology related courses. - Some training may be provided.
  • CPR/First Aid Certification (Can be provided through Parks & Recreation).

Other Information
  • This is not a KPERS covered position.
  • Shift, Workdays, and Hours Varies

The City of Manhattan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and believe the best workplaces bring together employees with diverse skill sets, backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints to achieve common goals. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any basis protected by law.