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Internship Reptile Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

... and interns in the development of job skills related to daily animal care, and, under manager ... Experience with reptile and amphibian exhibit design, including environmental parameter management ...

Mecklenburg County

Senior Aquarist

Huntersville, NC · On-site

... amphibian and reptile exhibits at four separate Nature Centers within Mecklenburg County ... Experience working in an aquarium or zoo setting highly preferred. * Environmental education ...

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Internship Reptile Zoo information

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$8

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How much do internship reptile zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship reptile zoo in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Internship Reptile Zoo vs Reptile Keeper?

AspectInternship Reptile ZooReptile Keeper
CredentialsUsually requires a high school diploma or ongoing college courseworkMay require relevant certifications or experience in reptile care
Work EnvironmentEducational, temporary, often part-time, focused on learning and visitor interactionHands-on, daily care of reptiles, often full-time in zoo or sanctuary settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, zoos, wildlife centers for training and volunteer experienceZoos, reptile sanctuaries, pet stores, and research facilities for professional reptile care

The Internship Reptile Zoo typically serves as an entry-level, educational opportunity for students or enthusiasts to gain experience in reptile care and zoo operations. In contrast, a Reptile Keeper is a professional responsible for the daily care, feeding, and health management of reptiles in a zoo or sanctuary setting. While internships focus on learning and observation, reptile keeper roles involve hands-on, full-time responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern at a reptile zoo, and why are they important?

To thrive as an intern at a reptile zoo, you need a basic understanding of animal biology, a passion for herpetology, and a willingness to learn, often supported by coursework in zoology or related fields. Familiarity with animal care protocols, feeding schedules, and safety procedures is typically required, along with training in handling reptiles and sanitation systems. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a responsible attitude are crucial soft skills for working safely and effectively with both animals and visitors. These skills ensure the wellbeing of the reptiles, support educational efforts, and help maintain a safe environment for staff and guests.

What is an internship role at a reptile zoo?

Internship roles at a reptile zoo typically involve assisting with the care and husbandry of reptiles, maintaining enclosures, preparing food, and helping with educational programs or tours. Interns may also participate in cleaning and upkeep of animal habitats, record-keeping, and observing animal behavior for research purposes. These positions provide hands-on experience with reptiles and are ideal for individuals interested in animal care, zoology, or conservation.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect as an intern at a reptile zoo?

As an intern at a reptile zoo, you'll typically be involved in a range of hands-on activities such as feeding reptiles, cleaning enclosures, assisting with habitat maintenance, and observing animal behaviors. You'll also have opportunities to interact with visitors by helping with educational programs and demonstrations, under the supervision of experienced staff. This role provides valuable real-world experience in animal husbandry and public education, and it is a great stepping stone for those interested in careers in zoology or wildlife conservation.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Reptile Zoo jobs? The most popular types of Reptile Zoo jobs are:
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Internship Reptile Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Reptile Zoo job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Internship, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

John Ball Zoo

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

John Ball Zoo rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

SENIOR ZOOKEEPER
The Area 2 Senior Zookeeper performs general daily animal care functions including the maintenance of live exhibits and holding facilities, animal training, diet preparation and feeding, and enrichment delivery. This position guides the team in daily operations, serves as a resource and provides training for all animal care staff, volunteers, and interns in the development of job skills related to daily animal care, and, under manager direction, liaises with other teams and departments. This position is primarily responsible for amphibians and reptiles (ex: small crocodile species, large pythons, iguanas, monitor lizards, and venomous.
This is a union position. Pay will be based on experience: $20.62 - $26.33 per hour
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SENIOR ZOOKEEPER AT JBZ
The Senior Zookeeper monitors animals in Area 2 (including amphibians, reptiles, primates, and aquatics) to ensure that they are physically and mentally healthy, uninjured, and exhibiting normal behavior. They perform advanced animal care and management, including but not limited to animal procedures, escape response, capture and restraint, transports, introductions, and training, as well as performing daily inspections of exhibits and holding areas to assess environment quality. They complete required documentation, report concerns to animal care managers, and provide guidance and assistance to teams on projects as directed by animal care leadership. They also assist with the development and writing of standard operating procedures and department policies and procedures.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR ZOOKEEPER AT JBZ
  • Bachelors degree in life science or related field
  • At least five years of experience in exotic animal care or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience in animal care
  • At least three years of experience working with venomous animals and teaching others safe venomous handling
  • Experience with reptile and amphibian exhibit design, including environmental parameter management, exhibit building, and water quality management
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to ensure thorough and effective communication with a broad spectrum of stakeholders include, but not limited to: team members, managers, volunteers, leadership, and guests.
  • Experience leading a team and mentoring others preferred.
  • Ability to develop positive professional relationships with all levels of staff and volunteers.
  • Ability to work with potentially deadly animals (PDAs).
  • Ability to act as the point of contact for area when managers are not present - including addressing animal/space issues (unplanned medical issues, escapes, malfunctioning/damaged infrastructure); liaising with other departments and teams as needed; making and communicating changes as needed.
  • Experience developing and writing SOPs, department policies, and animal behavior plans preferred.
  • Demonstrated computer competence to complete required record keeping and communication. Experience using ZIMS preferred.
  • Dive-certified or ability to obtain dive certification
  • Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
WHO WE ARE
At John Ball Zoo, our mission is to inspire our community to be actively engaged in the conservation of wildlife and our natural environment. John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures excellent animal care and a dedication to conservation. As one of the top attractions in Grand Rapids, we welcome over 700,000 guests each year who are able to experience over 2,000 animals of over 230 species that represent the beautiful wildlife living in our world! We are passionate about our mission focused on education and conservation but know that our 120+ full time and 350 seasonal people guided by our core values accomplish this mission. Our core values are:
  • Conservation
  • Education
  • Community
  • Celebrate
  • Compassion
BENEFITS AT JBZ
  • We offer incredibly competitive benefits. This includes FREE:
  • Medical plan option
  • Short-term disability
  • Long-term disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Dental amp; Vision for employee amp; family
  • 12 Full weeks of parental leave
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
We offer generous Vacation and Personal time and 11 Holidays each year. We offer a 4% match and 3% employer contribution to your 401k, zoo discounts, employee-only zoo experiences, tuition reimbursement, additional medical benefits to meet your and your family's needs, and a FREE Premium Zoo membership for you and your family.
WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Employee will work in various environments both inside and outside and will be exposed to inclement weather; pollen, mold, dust, dirt, and other airborne contaminants; and temperature variations. Must be able to tolerate exposure to anti-bacterial, disinfectants and other cleaning compounds. Must be able to wear all required protective clothing and equipment. Must be able to work near exotic and domestic animals and tolerate exposure to animal dander, animal wastes, and other zoonotic contaminants. Must be able to lift at least 50lbs and stand for at least two hours. Must be able and available to be tested annually for tuberculosis. Must be, or able to be, immunized against Hepatitis-B and rabies.
NEW TO GRAND RAPIDS
Come live in the beautiful Grand Rapids where you can find live music, art festivals, outdoor recreation, and nationally ranked food and craft beverages. You can drive 20 minutes and be by the beautiful Lake Michigan, hike and kayak by the Grand River, or stay downtown and enjoy a variety of food and drinks. Grand Rapids is known as Americas’ best beer city, nation's craft beverage capital, and a top 20 U.S. Foodie city. There is a little bit of everything here in Grand Rapids to attract everyone including our growing zoo!
John Ball Zoo is a drug free facility under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. We invite individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, hairstyles, or any other characteristic to join our team where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.
We envision a future of being a world-class zoo, a premier education facility, a renowned conservation center, and a wildly successful national visitor attraction. Want to help make the adventure come alive? Apply today and join us!

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