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Internship Zoo Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

The Indianapolis Zoo is looking for an experienced Marine Mammal Trainer to join our pod! Ideal ... Prior related work experience (internships and/or volunteering experience acceptable). * Bachelor ...

Internship Zoo information

See Indiana salary details

$8

$14

$20

How much do internship zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship zoo in Indiana is $14.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.88 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an internship zoo?

An Internship Zoo job is a temporary position at a zoo where interns gain hands-on experience working with animals, assisting zookeepers, and learning about animal care, conservation, and zoo operations. Responsibilities may include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, observing animal behavior, and educating visitors. These internships provide valuable experience for those pursuing careers in zoology, veterinary medicine, or wildlife conservation.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an internship zoo?

To thrive as a Zoo Intern, you should have a strong interest in animal care, basic knowledge of biology or zoology, and be pursuing or have completed relevant coursework in animal sciences or related fields. Experience with animal husbandry tools, safety equipment, and familiarity with record-keeping systems or animal management software is often beneficial. Excellent communication, teamwork, reliability, and a willingness to learn are valuable soft skills for this position. These skills are essential to ensure both the welfare of the animals and effective collaboration with zookeepers and other staff members in a fast-paced environment.

What does an internship zoo do?

As a Zoo Intern, your typical responsibilities may include assisting with animal feeding, cleaning enclosures, preparing enrichment activities, and helping staff observe animal behavior and health. You may also support educational programs, answer guest questions, and perform basic administrative tasks related to animal care. Interns often rotate through different sections of the zoo to gain a broad understanding of zoo operations and animal management. This hands-on experience not only helps develop critical animal care skills but also offers opportunities to interact closely with experienced professionals, preparing you for future roles in animal care or wildlife management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Internship Zoo jobs in Indiana? For Internship Zoo jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Internship Zoo jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Internship Zoo job openings:

Manager of Volunteer Services

Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Indianapolis Zoo rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Do you believe volunteers can change the world? Are you passionate about building meaningful relationships, developing people, and creating exceptional volunteer experiences? At the Indianapolis Zoo, our mission is to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Every year, hundreds of dedicated volunteers donate thousands of hours to support that mission-and we're looking for an experienced leader to guide and grow this incredible program.
About the Role
The Manager of Volunteer Services leads all aspects of the Zoo's volunteer program, overseeing the recruitment, training, placement, recognition, and ongoing engagement of adult volunteers, Zoo Teens, volunteer groups, interns, and externs. This role partners with departments across the Zoo to ensure volunteers have meaningful opportunities while providing outstanding support for daily operations, conservation initiatives, guest experiences, and special events.
This is a full-time position that requires flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends to support volunteer activities, recruitment events, and major Zoo events throughout the year.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the recruitment, interviewing, onboarding, placement, and retention of volunteers across the organization.
  • Develop and deliver volunteer orientation, training, recognition, and engagement programs that create an exceptional volunteer experience.
  • Partner with Zoo departments to assess volunteer needs and ensure programs effectively support organizational goals.
  • Manage volunteer coverage for signature events, including Zoobilation, Christmas at the Zoo, ZooBoo, XZOOberance, and other special events.
  • Oversee internship and externship programs from recruitment through placement.
  • Maintain volunteer records, program data, and reporting while managing the Volunteer Services budget.
  • Supervise the Volunteer Program Assistant and provide leadership, coaching, and professional development.
  • Ensure volunteer policies, procedures, and practices comply with organizational standards and applicable regulations.

What We're Looking For
  • Three to five years of leadership or management experience, preferably in volunteer management, nonprofit organizations, guest services, education, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated passion for volunteer engagement and creating meaningful experiences for diverse audiences.
  • Strong leadership, relationship-building, and communication skills with the ability to inspire volunteers, staff, and community partners.
  • Experience coordinating multiple projects, managing competing priorities, and maintaining accurate records.
  • Comfortable presenting to groups, facilitating training sessions, and representing the organization professionally.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with volunteer management software or CRM systems is preferred.
  • High School diploma required. Associate or bachelor's degree in business, communications, behavioral sciences, nonprofit management, or a related field is preferred.

Why Join Us?
Volunteers are essential to everything we do at the Indianapolis Zoo. From welcoming guests and supporting education programs to assisting conservation efforts and creating unforgettable special events, they help bring our mission to life every day. As the Manager of Volunteer Services, you'll have the opportunity to shape one of the Zoo's most impactful programs while helping volunteers make a lasting difference for wildlife, our guests, and our community.
Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

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