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Animal Trainer Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tamus

Veterinary Intern

College Station, TX

$45K/yr

Who we are TheLarge Animal Clinical Sciences Departmentis dedicated to the well-being and care of ... Training: Contributes to the training of graduate and undergraduate students. Obtains post-graduate ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Elephant Intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15/hr

Elephant Intern FLSA Status: Non-exempt Classification: Seasonal Hours: Up to 24 hours per week for ... elephant training. Interns will be provided opportunities to observe animal care staff as they ...

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Work-Trade Animal Care Intern

Laupahoehoe, HI

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Animal care is centered around feeding, grooming, cleaning, and training from sun-up to sun-down (6 ... Intern candidates will ideally be vegans who can also explain why these types of animals need the ...

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Work-Trade Animal Care Intern

Laupahoehoe, HI · On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Animal care is centered around feeding, grooming, cleaning, and training from sun-up to sun-down (6 ... Intern candidates will ideally be vegans who can also explain why these types of animals need the ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Sea Lions Intern

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15/hr

... animal care teams as needed to improve enrichment, training, and welfare programs * Preparing ... As an intern in the Sea Lion Department, you will be expected to be proficient and comfortable ...

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Animal Trainer Intern information

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect during an Animal Trainer Intern position?

As an Animal Trainer Intern, you will typically assist with daily animal care routines such as feeding, cleaning habitats, and monitoring animal health. You'll also observe and participate in training sessions, helping to reinforce desired behaviors using positive reinforcement. Interns often help prepare training materials, document animal progress, and may interact with visitors or clients under supervision. This hands-on role provides exposure to both the behavioral and logistical aspects of animal training, and you’ll work closely with experienced trainers and other animal care staff.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Animal Trainer Internships are open to individuals of various ages, including those who are 22 or older. Age is generally not a barrier, and maturity, relevant skills, and a genuine interest in animal training are more important factors for success in the role.

What qualifications do you need to be an animal trainer?

Animal trainer interns typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have a strong interest in working with animals. Relevant skills include patience, communication, and knowledge of animal behavior; some positions may require basic certifications or prior experience with animals. Formal education in animal science or related fields can be beneficial but is not always mandatory.

What are the big 4 internships?

The 'Big 4' internships typically refer to summer internship programs offered by the four largest accounting firms: Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY), and KPMG. These internships provide experience in accounting, auditing, consulting, and advisory services and are highly competitive for students pursuing careers in finance and accounting, including roles like animal trainer interns seeking professional development opportunities. They often require strong academic performance, relevant skills, and early application planning.

Do zoo interns get paid?

Zoo animal trainer interns are often unpaid or receive stipends, as many internships in this field are considered educational opportunities. Paid internships are less common and typically require prior experience or specific programs; it is important to check the specific zoo's internship details. Internships usually involve hands-on training with animals, and some may offer academic credit instead of monetary compensation.

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

To thrive as an Animal Trainer Intern, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, patience, and a genuine interest in animal care, often supported by coursework in animal science or biology. Familiarity with training tools, safety equipment, and observation or record-keeping systems is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are important soft skills to effectively support trainers and ensure animal welfare. These skills are crucial for creating a safe, positive learning environment for both animals and handlers while contributing to successful training outcomes.

What is the difference between Animal Trainer Intern vs Animal Trainer?

AspectAnimal Trainer InternAnimal Trainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some experience or coursework in animal behaviorRelevant certifications (e.g., CPDT-KA), experience in animal training
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in zoos, aquariums, or training facilitiesFull-time employment in similar environments with more responsibilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with training tasks, observing trainers, gaining experienceDesigning and implementing training programs, managing animals independently

In summary, an Animal Trainer Intern is a learning role focused on gaining experience and assisting trainers, while an Animal Trainer is a full-fledged professional responsible for training animals independently. Interns typically have fewer credentials and responsibilities compared to full trainers.

What are Animal Trainer Interns?

Animal Trainer Interns are individuals who assist professional animal trainers in caring for and training animals, often as part of a structured internship program. Their responsibilities may include feeding, cleaning, observing animal behavior, assisting with training sessions, and maintaining records. Interns gain hands-on experience working with animals in settings such as zoos, aquariums, shelters, or entertainment venues. This role is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in animal care, behavior, or training, and provides valuable learning and networking opportunities.
What cities are hiring for Animal Trainer Intern jobs? Cities with the most Animal Trainer Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Trainer jobs? The most popular types of Animal Trainer jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Trainer Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Trainer Intern jobs include:
Animal Trainer Intern jobs near you

Animal Behavior and Wellbeing Intern

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Omaha, NE • On-site

$15/hr

Temporary

Posted yesterday

Job description

Job Title: Animal Behavior and Wellbeing Intern
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Classification: Seasonal
Hours: Up to 24 hours per week for 12 weeks
Pay Rate: $15.00/hour
This is a seasonal position with a maximum duration of six months, based on individual performance and business operations. The exact end date will be determined by the official start date.
SCHEDULE: The fall session runs September 22nd - December 14th, 2026. All interns must be available during this time.
  • Orientation: First day of each semester from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. All interns must be available to attend orientation in-person.
  • Weekly Schedule: Must be available to workup to 24 hours per week and attend one weekly afternoon professional development session starting the second week of their internship. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays. Schedules will be determined before internships begin by working with the Intern Coordinator and animal area supervisors.

DESCRIPTION: Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is seeking an Animal Behavior and Wellbeing (ABW) Intern under the direction of the Manager of Animal Behavior and Wellbeing. Interns will assist the Manager while working along with the keeper staff in all aspects of the day-to-day husbandry, training, enrichment, and welfare requirements for the animals in the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium collection. Interns may also participate in training and enrichment programs with the Zoo animals as well as potentially give public presentations.
The Animal Behavior and Wellbeing currently works with a wide variety of animals in various taxa. The focus of the department is to promote awareness and stewardship of the animal kingdom through enrichment and operant conditioning. The program consists of collection animals each having specific outlined objectives or teaching points that support the mission of Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium to inspire, educate, and engage people to serve as life-long stewards for animals, their habitats, and their conservation.
This internship is designed to provide an opportunity to form a knowledge base as it pertains to animal behavior and the causes that impact behavior in an AZA accredited facility in the following areas: general knowledge, animal welfare assessments, daily husbandry, nutrition, data collection and record keeping, environmental enrichment, operant conditioning, conservation issues, and guest interactions.
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop, work on, and present an internship project aligned with the research needs of conservation science staff in the ABW department.
  • Attend weekly professional development sessions.
  • Complete learning goals on internship checklist.
  • Participate in and complete a mid-point and final evaluation.
  • Assist in and complete tasks as assigned, including but not limited to:
    • Creating ethograms and collecting behavioral data
    • Analyzing behavioral data and presenting to animal care teams as needed to improve enrichment, training, and welfare programs
    • Preparing, offering, logging, approved Enrichment in accordance to the animals' life strategy plan.
    • Assisting in developing and implementing operant conditioning techniques for the collection animals.
    • Assisting with and potentially individually providing animal demonstrations and encounters.
    • Assist the ABW manager and animal area staff in animal welfare assessments as needed
    • Other duties may be assigned.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Must follow safety guidelines and always demonstrate safe working practices.
  • Must have effective time management skills for working in a fast-paced and flexible work environment.
  • Must possess strong communication skills; Communicate frequently and in a professional manner with supervisor and animal team members.
  • Must work well with others and have the ability to work independently.
  • Must be team-oriented and willing to work with other interns, volunteers, and staff members to further not only the goals of the Department but also of the Zoo's mission statement.
  • Must attend shifts on time and as scheduled.
  • Must have the ability to follow detailed instructions.

Offered candidates are required to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening. A negative TB test is also required.
EXPERIENCE: Experience is not necessary, but consideration will be given to an individual's past direct experience with exotic animals in other zoological, aqua cultural, ecological and biological areas such as in schools, aquariums, nature centers, agricultural operations, animal merchandizing or conservation centers.
EDUCATION: Interns must be currently enrolled in, or have recently graduated from, a college or university. A minimum of one year of coursework in a major field of study to be applied during the internship (e.g. biology, zoology, animal behavior, etc.) is preferred. Must be motivated to continue expanding knowledge base as it applies to enrichment and operant conditioning.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: This position at times involves considerable physical exertion, such as regularly climbing of ladders, lifting of heavy objects (up to or more than 50 pounds) and/or assuming awkward positions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: There are routine exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, and moisture. The position may involve exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises and minor burns.
PUBLIC CONTACT: Interns may interact with the public frequently throughout their internship and are expected to always exhibit professionalism and exceptional customer service. Interns may be asked to engage in public speaking opportunities, including but not limited to informal educational presentations for the public. As an intern in the Behavior Husbandry Department, you will be expected to be proficient and comfortable interacting with the public and Keepers. Guest concerns, questions or complaints should be promptly addressed to the Manager, Intern Coordinator or Lead Education Manager.
TO APPLY:
  • Prospective interns can only submit ONE application per person specific to their top their choice but may indicate up to two other areas that interest them on their application.
  • Must submit Cover Letter and Resume to Paycom at the time you apply. Applications without these materials will not be considered.
    • Your cover letter should include clearly defined career goals including how interning in the area you selected as your top choice will help you achieve your goals.
  • Interns must provide their availability at the time of their interview. Interviews may be conducted over the phone, in person, or over Zoom.

DISCLAIMER
We will do everything possible to accommodate school requirements for those seeking to earn class credit. We do our best to accommodate the schedules of interns with full or part-time job requirements.
Please note this position does not provide any medical coverage.
The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor is it to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.
Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.

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