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Animal Program Internship Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Shedd Aquarium

Animal Care Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

... an internship, or other animal care experience. * Experience with Cetaceans, Penguins and Otters ... Employee Assistance Program * Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include: * 7:00 a.m ... and animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include: * 7:00 a.m ... and animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include: * 7:00 a.m ... and animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include: * 7:00 a.m ... and animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!

Dundee Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include: * 7:00 a.m ... animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!

City of Bloomington Illinois

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K/yr

... interns, and volunteers. Function as an AZA IR as directed. Support and/or participate in in situ and ex situ conservation programs. Serve as a member of the MPZ Animal Emergency Response Team ...

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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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Animal Program Internship jobs in Illinois?

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

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

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

Animal Program Internship jobs near you

Animal Care Technician, Part-time

Anderson Humane

South Elgin, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Imagine starting your workday with wagging tails, rumbly purrs, and animals who are thrilled simply because you showed up. As an Animal Care Technician at Anderson Humane, you play an essential role in the daily care, comfort, and wellbeing of our dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies - and in return, you become one of their favorite people.

What you'll do

  • Provide clean and sanitized living spaces, toys, and bedding throughout the day.
  • Prepare nutritious meals to make sure they're getting the nourishment they need.
  • Lend a hand training new volunteers, interns, and staff.
  • Ensure our dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens flourish:
    • Physically with lots of play and exercise, and multiple daily walks for dogs.
    • Mentally by giving them challenging toys and puzzles to figure out.
    • Socially with small playgroups and by making time just for them that's a little extra special.

It's true that dogs and puppies demand our immediate attention by loudly telling us what they need when they need it, but we make sure to spoil our cats & kitties too. So, it's essential that our Animal Care Technicians are at ease caring for all of our animals.

What to expect

  • Compensation is $15.00 per hour.
  • A loud and messy, but lively environment with animals of all sizes and characters.
  • To follow all safety protocols and procedures to the letter.
  • A mix of indoor and outdoor activities daily.
  • This is a very fast paced and physically demanding role. You'll be walking, standing, and lifting (up to 50 lbs. with help) throughout your day.
  • A flexible, part-time, work schedule. Animal Care Techs work weekdays, weekends, and holidays with shifts between 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., seven days a week.
  • To contribute to a welcoming and supportive team; working respectfully with staff, volunteers, and interns, and recognizing the value and contributions of others.

What you'll love

  • The daily reward of being greeted by animals who are truly happy to see you.
  • You'll slowly see their unique personalities and silliness the longer you're with us.
  • Accruing Paid Time Off hours on your first day; you're eligible for Holiday Pay too.
  • Getting a head start on your retirement with our 401(k) program (must be 21years old).
  • Our Employee Adoption Discount because love at first sight sure happens a lot around here.
  • Our Employee Assistance Program services are available to help you manage life's curveballs.

What we're looking for

  • Professional experience in animal care (in a kennel or shelter setting is even better).
  • Familiarity (or fluency) reading animal behavior.
  • A courteous and respectful professional whose behavior strengthens our Animal Care team.
  • You keep a cool head and can focus when up against a deadline.
  • You're happy working alone just as much as being teamed up with others.

Anderson Humane. Your contributions save lives.Animal Care Technician

Apply