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Animal Internship Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Relief Vet

Pleasant Grove, UT · On-site

Among the reasons to consider joining VCA are: • Network of 4,500+ doctors, including more than 600 Specialists. • Largest provider of Private Practice Internships and Residencies in the U.S. • ...

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Animal Internship information

What is an animal internship?

An animal internship is a temporary, supervised work experience that allows students or aspiring professionals to gain hands-on experience working with animals. These internships can take place at zoos, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or research institutions. Interns typically assist with animal care, feeding, enrichment, cleaning, and sometimes research or educational programs. The goal is to provide practical skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities in the animal care or animal science fields.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during an animal internship, and how do they contribute to my professional development?

During an animal internship, you can expect to gain direct experience in animal care, such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, assisting with medical treatments, and observing animal behaviors. These tasks are typically supervised by experienced staff and may also involve record-keeping and participating in educational programs. This exposure not only builds practical skills but also helps you understand best practices in animal welfare and facility operations. Collaborating with veterinarians, animal trainers, and other interns can further enhance your communication and teamwork abilities—key assets for a future career in animal science or care.

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 need a basic understanding of animal care, biology, and safety protocols, often supported by coursework in animal science or related fields. Familiarity with animal handling tools, record-keeping systems, and sometimes first aid certification is typically beneficial. Strong observational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you stand out when working with both animals and staff. These skills are crucial for ensuring the well-being of animals, supporting team operations, and gaining valuable experience in animal-related fields.

What is the difference between Animal Internship vs Animal Technician?

AspectAnimal InternshipAnimal Technician
Required CredentialsOften no formal certification; some may require relevant coursework or volunteeringTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require certification
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, research labs, veterinary clinics, zoosVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs offered by organizations to gain experienceFull-time or part-time roles in animal care facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal internships are typically entry-level opportunities designed for individuals seeking hands-on experience in animal care without requiring formal certification. Animal technicians are trained professionals responsible for daily animal care, often requiring specific certifications or education. While internships focus on learning and observation, animal technicians perform routine tasks and support animal health and well-being in various settings.

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

The most popular types of Animal jobs in Utah are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Animal Internship jobs in Utah look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Internship jobs in Utah are:

What cities in Utah are hiring for Animal Internship jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most Animal Internship job openings:

Animal Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Internship job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Internship, 57% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Specialist, Lifesaving & Care- Horse Haven

Best Friends Animal Society

Kanab, UT • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Best Friends Animal Society rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Location: Kanab, Utah
Hiring Range: This position's hiring range is anticipated to be $22.00-$25.00 per hour, depending on experience, plus great benefits!
Position Summary: Providing the hands-on care for the animals at the Sanctuary, working with all departments to find those animals homes wherever possible, and serving as mission and brand ambassadors for the tens of thousands of guests, volunteers, and adopters who visit the Sanctuary annually.
Culture Statement and Responsibility: We believe in treating everyone with kindness and compassion, building trust through authenticity and following through on commitments. We prioritize well-being alongside our mission, fostering strong relationships through open communication and transparent feedback. Diversity and inclusion are integral to our culture, enriching team dynamics by valuing diverse perspectives. Each team member is responsible for creating an inclusive environment where all voices are respected and contributing to a workplace that embodies our shared values and commitment to progress. By consistently aligning our actions with our Guiding Principles, we strengthen our culture and ensure that our values are lived every day.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Support lifesaving objectives throughout the department, providing feedback and support for outcome plans, assist with all aspects of the adoption process, regularly update animal photos and bios, providing superior customer service to visitors, volunteers, and adopters.
  • Serve as a Sanctuary ambassador, representing Best Friends' work to visitors and volunteers, and speaking to the Sanctuary's special role in Best Friends' no-kill goals.
  • Support a "volunteers-first" team giving every volunteer the opportunity to maximize their skills and value towards Best Friends' lifesaving activities, and inspiring visitors to continue the work in their communities.
  • Provide for the safety and hands-on training of volunteers, both individuals and groups, including orienting them to the assigned area and tasks; answering questions as needed.
  • Greeting and conduct tours, speak about specific animals, the work of Horse Haven and the sanctuary, answer questions and assist visitors with their needs.
  • Work alongside and support interns, workshop attendees, and other categories of visitors.

Animal Care
  • Provide basic and routine care for animals per department guidelines which includes, but not limited to feeding, watering, transporting, and light grooming.
  • Support animals with medical issues, which may include zoonotic disease, by medicating, treating, preparing special diets, observing and reporting, and assisting in the maintenance of required veterinary records.
  • Provide socialization, enrichment, and exercise for animals as outlined by leadership, which may include working with animals that may be considered challenging or dangerous; identifying behavioral issues and sharing observations with team members and leaders; following behavior or training plans as developed for the department or specific animals.
  • Clean and restock work areas and preserving physical appearance of buildings and grounds.

General
  • Deliver superior customer service relating to all visitors, adopters, fosters and transfer partners in a friendly, informative and professional manner.

Skills/Experience
  • Previous experience with equines, potbellied pigs, goats, and sheep preferred.
  • Previous experience working with equines with natural horsemanship techniques preferred.
  • Demonstrates approachability when dealing with the general public. Experience in interacting with the general public (customer service) preferred.
  • Ability to professionally advocate Best Friends Animal Society's and Horse Haven's positions on issues.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on finding solutions.
  • Demonstrates ability to create and encourage a positive work environment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while effectively managing individual responsibilities.
  • Exhibits emotional resilience, adaptability, and professionalism in challenging or high-pressure situations.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, i.e., ability to develop positive relationships with others and demonstrate sensitivity to the thoughts, feelings and perspectives of others.
  • Demonstrates personal accountability to ensure that all responsibilities are completed effectively and in a timely manner.
  • Accurate, appropriate, clear and concise written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong listening skills.
  • Basic computer experience preferred (Microsoft Word, Gmail, etc.).
  • Experience operating a variety of vehicles (manual and automatic) and pulling a trailer preferred.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and qualify for BFAS insurance.
  • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to perform strenuous and repetitive physical activity on a daily basis including but not limited to: shoveling, mucking, poop scooping, lifting, carrying, reaching, stooping, squatting, bending, walking, climbing up and down ladders, and climbing into and out of vehicles.
  • Must be able to routinely lift 80 - 100 pounds.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from below freezing to 100+ degrees.
  • Must be able to work around allergens like hay, dust, and animals.

Thank you for your interest in pursuing a career at Best Friends Animal Society. Best Friends Animal Society is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, or domestic partner status.
Applicants for employment in the U.S. must have valid work authorization that does not now and/or will not in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the U.S. by Best Friends Animal Society.

What Best Friends Animal Society employees say

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