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Animal Program Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Meadowlark Theater Intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15/hr

Interns may be allowed to participate in training and enrichment programs with the area animals as well as assist in the production of the daily animal programs. This internship is designed to ...

Santa Barbara Zoo

Animal Keeper

Santa Barbara, CA

$23.90 - $26.30/hr

P. of Animal Care & Health, the Keeper is responsible for the application of daily animal care ... educational programs Staff development: * Supervises volunteers and interns * Shares critical ...

Santa Barbara Zoo

Animal Keeper

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$23.90 - $26.30/hr

P. of Animal Care & Health, the Keeper is responsible for the application of daily animal care ... educational programs Staff development: * Supervises volunteers and interns * Shares critical ...

Animal Friends

Special Event Internship

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Must have sincere interest in the work, programs, and mission of Animal Friends. Please note this is an unpaid internship. Animal Friends does not offer stipends for housing or travel. Students are ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

... acceptable animal care program may be substituted for a Bachelor's degree. * Six years of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment or internships.

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Animal Program Internship information

What is an Animal Program Internship?

An Animal Program Internship is a supervised work experience where interns assist with the care, observation, and enrichment of animals in facilities such as zoos, aquariums, or wildlife centers. Interns typically help with daily husbandry tasks, educational programs, and sometimes participate in research or conservation projects. This internship is designed to give students or recent graduates hands-on experience in animal care and to provide insight into careers in animal management, conservation, or education. It often serves as a stepping stone for future employment or advanced studies in animal-related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Program Intern, and why are they important?

To excel as an Animal Program Intern, you generally need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, often supported by coursework or experience working with animals. Familiarity with animal care protocols, basic husbandry tools, and data recording systems is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a proactive attitude are essential soft skills for collaborating with staff and ensuring animal welfare. These competencies are critical for maintaining safe, effective animal care and supporting the overall goals of the animal program.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during an Animal Program Internship, and how do they support my professional development?

As an Animal Program Intern, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on activities such as animal husbandry, routine feeding, habitat cleaning, and assisting with basic health checks under supervision. These tasks not only build your practical animal care skills but also expose you to daily operations in a professional animal care setting. Many internships also involve supporting educational programs or guest interactions, which can enhance your communication and teamwork abilities. This well-rounded experience is highly valued by employers in zoos, aquariums, and wildlife rehabilitation centers, and can be a strong stepping stone for future roles in animal care or conservation.
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Animal Program Internship jobs near you
Animal Care Internship

Animal Care Internship

Animal Rescue League Of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with cleaning and maintaining animal housing areas.

  • Help monitor animal health and behavior and report concerns to staff.

  • Complete a research-based educational project and present it at the conclusion of the internship.

Animal Rescue League of Iowa rating

3.3

Company rating: 3.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

684th of 690 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Animal Care Internship (Unpaid) - Summer 2026

Your Mission:
To advance the mission and programs of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) by volunteering time and effort to support the Animal Care teams while gaining valuable hands-on knowledge and experience in animal welfare and care practices in a shelter environment.

What You’ll Do:
As an Animal Care Intern, you’ll play an important role in supporting the daily care, enrichment, and wellbeing of animals at ARL Main, ARL Animal Services, and the Second Chance Ranch. You’ll assist with cleaning and maintaining animal housing areas, help monitor animal health and behavior, and immediately report any concerns to staff. You’ll learn to operate laundry, cleaning, and dishwashing equipment, help ensure all supplies and spaces are well maintained, and contribute to keeping the shelter environment clean, safe, and welcoming.

Throughout the internship, you’ll complete rotations with the leaders at ARL Main, ARL Animal Services, and the Second Chance Ranch to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ARL’s shelter operations. You’ll also complete a research-based educational project designed to deepen your understanding of animal welfare and the ARL’s mission, which you’ll present at the conclusion of your internship. In all aspects of your work, you’ll support efforts to reduce stress and disease through compassionate and purposeful handling of animals while adhering to ARL policies and safety protocols.

What You Bring:
You have a genuine interest in animal care and a desire to make a difference for animals in need. Previous experience working with animals or in a customer service environment is preferred, but not required. You are dependable, self-motivated, and eager to learn in a hands-on environment. The ability to work in a fast-paced setting, perform basic mathematical skills, and stay positive under pressure will serve you well in this role. A commitment of 90 days is required, with a minimum of four hours on-site at least five days a week.

Working Conditions:
This position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and to stand or sit for extended periods of time. Work may involve exposure to animal waste, odors, contagious diseases, bites, scratches, and a moderate noise level. You’ll be part of a supportive, mission-driven team where every day offers new opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact in the lives of animals.

Why This Internship Matters:
This internship is an opportunity to gain meaningful, real-world experience in animal welfare, build professional skills, and contribute to the care and comfort of hundreds of animals each day. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of shelter operations, animal behavior, and the role compassion plays in every aspect of our work while helping to further the ARL’s mission to change lives, one animal at a time.