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Internship Zookeeper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Binder Park Zoo

Zookeeper, Full-Time

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

Providing assistance to co-workers, zoo attendants, interns and volunteers when needed. * Responsible for giving keeper talks. * Complying with safety regulations when handling hazardous materials.

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Internship Zookeeper information

See Michigan salary details

$5

$13

$21

How much do internship zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship zookeeper in Michigan is $13.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.71 and $15.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an internship zookeeper?

An Internship Zookeeper job is a temporary position designed to provide hands-on experience in animal care and zoo operations. Interns typically assist with feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment activities, and observing animal behavior under the supervision of experienced zookeepers. This role is ideal for students or recent graduates pursuing careers in zoology, wildlife conservation, or animal sciences. Interns may also engage in public education and conservation programs. It is a valuable opportunity to gain practical skills and industry knowledge while contributing to animal welfare.

What does an internship zookeeper do?

As an Internship Zookeeper, your daily responsibilities typically include preparing food, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and assisting with enrichment activities to support animal welfare. You may also help with educational programs, interact with zoo visitors under supervision, and assist professional zookeepers during veterinary procedures or habitat maintenance. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the daily operations of a zoo and offers opportunities to develop practical animal care skills. The variety of tasks exposes you to multiple species and aspects of animal husbandry, helping you explore potential career paths within zoology.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an internship zookeeper?

To thrive as an Internship Zookeeper, you generally need a passion for animal care, a basic understanding of biology or zoology, and some formal education or enrollment in a relevant program. Familiarity with animal feeding protocols, safety equipment, and record-keeping systems is often required, and a first aid or animal handling certification can be beneficial. Strong communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn new skills help candidates stand out. These abilities ensure the intern can support daily animal care routines safely, work effectively with staff, and contribute to the zoo's mission.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Internship Zookeeper jobs in Michigan?

For Internship Zookeeper jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Internship Zookeeper jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Internship Zookeeper jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Internship Zookeeper jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Internship Zookeeper job openings:

Internship Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Zookeeper job openings in Michigan 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 $27,997 per year, or $13.5 per hour.

Zookeeper, Full-Time

Binder Park Zoo

Battle Creek, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

ZOOKEEPER
Mission Statement: To Connect, Inspire, Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve.

REPORTS TO: Collections Supervisor
SEASONAL/NON-SEASONAL: Non-seasonal, Benefited
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Four year related degree OR a two year related degree AND two years’ paid experience in an animal related field.
  • Minimum one year experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting.
  • Experience working with giraffe, African hoofstock and / or primates a plus.
  • Excellent communication, judgment and record keeping skills.
  • Possessing a strong interest in working with animals and people.
  • Proof of negative TB test within one year and proof of tetanus shot within ten years.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Daily cleaning, feeding, and observing a group of potentially dangerous animals in a designated area.
  • Implement animal behavioral programs (operant conditioning/enrichment).
  • Maintaining accurate records.
  • Daily informing supervisor and veterinarian on physical and behavioral health of the animals in their areas.
  • Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of exhibits, guest viewing areas and animal holding areas.
  • Assisting with veterinary procedures as needed.
  • Complying with all AZA and USDA standards and regulations.
  • Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Providing assistance to co-workers, zoo attendants, interns and volunteers when needed.
  • Responsible for giving keeper talks.
  • Complying with safety regulations when handling hazardous materials.
  • Interacting positively with guests and providing assistance when needed.
  • Complying with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures.
  • Participating in team oriented zoo projects as needed.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: N/A

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
  • Ability to work long hours on a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, holidays and emergencies.
  • Ability to read, speak and write English in order to fulfill job functions in an understandable way.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in a physically demanding environment.

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