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Animal Internship Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Internship Experience in Animal and Avian Sciences * Develop and implement two new courses: * Equine Behavior and Training (supporting the Equine Science minor) * Livestock Management for non-majors ...

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Animal Internship information

Do veterinary internships pay?

Veterinary internships, including those related to animal internships, are often unpaid or offer a stipend to cover expenses. Some programs may provide a small salary, but many are volunteer-based to give students and early-career professionals hands-on experience in clinical or research settings.

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 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.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Animal internships are generally open to individuals of various ages, including those in their early twenties. Age is rarely a barrier, and many programs value maturity, relevant skills, and a strong interest in animal care. Applicants should review specific internship requirements for eligibility criteria.

What jobs can I do if I love animals?

Animal internships can lead to various careers such as zookeeper, veterinary technician, animal trainer, wildlife rehabilitator, or pet groomer. These roles often require specific skills, certifications, or training, and involve working in environments like shelters, zoos, clinics, or research facilities.

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.

Does Disney do animal internships?

Disney offers animal-related internships through its conservation and animal care programs, primarily at locations like Disney's Animal Kingdom and Disney Conservation Fund. These internships often focus on wildlife conservation, animal husbandry, and environmental education, and may require relevant experience or coursework. Applicants should review specific program requirements and application deadlines on Disney's official careers website.

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 most commonly searched types of Animal jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Animal jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Internship jobs in Reston, VA? For Animal Internship jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Animal Internship jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Animal Internship job openings:
Lecturer Applied Animal Science

Lecturer Applied Animal Science

University of Maryland

College Park, MD • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


University Of Maryland, Baltimore rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description Summary & Additional Information
Position Summary
The Department of Animal and Avian Sciences at the University of Maryland invites applications for a Lecturer in Applied Animal Science with expertise in equine science and working knowledge of livestock systems. This is a high-impact, teaching-focused position within a dynamic undergraduate program of over 300 students that integrates scientific principles with hands-on learning across species. A defining strength of the program is its on-campus teaching farm, where horses, sheep, cattle, goats, pigs, and chickens are actively incorporated into coursework, providing students with direct experience in animal management and production systems.
The Lecturer will play a central role in delivering this experiential curriculum while contributing to the development of new Animal Science and Equine Science minors. This includes the opportunity to develop two new courses, Equine Behavior and Training and Applied Livestock Management for non-majors, alongside teaching established courses and supporting student success through advising, internships, and career mentorship.
Responsibilities
Teaching and Curriculum Development
  • Teach a portfolio of undergraduate courses (typically 3-4 per semester) with primary contributions in equine and applied livestock systems, such as:
    • Equine courses that complement existing faculty expertise
    • Grazing Animal Management
    • Animal Enterprise Management (with opportunity for course redevelopment)
    • Internship Experience in Animal and Avian Sciences
  • Develop and implement two new courses:
    • Equine Behavior and Training (supporting the Equine Science minor)
    • Livestock Management for non-majors (supporting the Animal Science minor)
  • Contribute to curriculum coordination, assessment, and continuous improvement
  • Deliver instruction grounded in applied, science-based, and experiential learning

Student Engagement
  • Advise and mentor undergraduate students, particularly in career pathways within animal science industries
  • Support and contribute to the internship program and experiential learning opportunities
  • Engage with student organizations as appropriate

Program Contribution
  • Play a key role in the implementation and growth of new Animal Science and Equine Science minors
  • Collaborate with faculty to ensure cohesive and relevant curriculum delivery
  • Participate in departmental service

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Animal Science, Equine Science, or a closely related discipline
  • Demonstrated applied experience in equine systems and at least one other area of livestock production or management
  • Evidence of effective teaching, training, or instruction in academic or applied settings
  • Strong communication and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Doctorate in Animal Science, Equine Science, or a related field
  • Experience teaching at the college or university level
  • Demonstrated ability or interest in developing new courses or curricula
  • Applied experience in equine behavior, training, or handling
  • Working knowledge of grazing systems and/or livestock production
  • Experience with or interest in animal enterprise/business concepts

Experience mentoring students, advising, or supporting internships/experiential learning
Required Application Materials: Cover letter, curriculum vitae, one-page teaching philosophy or statement, and a list of three professional reference.
Best Consideration Date: 06/05/2026
Posting Close Date: N/A
Open Until Filled: Yes
Department
AGNR-Animal & Avian Sciences
Worker Sub-Type
Faculty Regular
Salary Range
$70,000 - $80,000
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice
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