1

Summer Zoo Internship With Housing Jobs in Columbus, OH

next page

Showing results 1-20

Summer Zoo Internship With Housing information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$9

$19

$30

How much do summer zoo internship with housing jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer zoo internship with housing in Columbus, OH is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $24.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Summer Zoo Intern with Housing, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Zoo Intern with Housing, you typically need a background in biology, animal science, or a related field, often as an undergraduate or recent graduate, along with a genuine interest in animal care. Experience with animal handling, familiarity with safety protocols, and sometimes basic certifications like first aid or CPR are valuable. Strong communication, teamwork, reliability, and a willingness to perform physically demanding tasks help interns stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, supporting zoo operations, and gaining valuable hands-on experience in a professional zoological setting.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a Summer Zoo Internship with housing?

As a Summer Zoo Intern, you can expect to engage in a variety of hands-on experiences such as assisting with animal care routines, preparing diets, observing animal behaviors, and supporting enrichment activities. Interns often work closely with zookeepers and educators, gaining exposure to animal husbandry practices and public education programs. The role typically involves both independent tasks and team projects, providing a well-rounded view of daily zoo operations and collaboration. Having housing provided allows you to focus on your learning and immerse yourself fully in the internship experience.

What is a Summer Zoo Internship With Housing?

A Summer Zoo Internship With Housing is a temporary, educational position at a zoo, typically designed for students or recent graduates interested in animal care, conservation, or zoo operations. The internship usually takes place over the summer months and provides hands-on experience working with animals, assisting zookeepers, and participating in educational programs. The 'with housing' aspect means that the zoo provides accommodation for interns, making it easier for those who live far away to participate without worrying about finding a place to stay. These internships help participants gain valuable experience in the zoological field and can be a stepping stone to future careers in animal care, research, or education.

What is the difference between Summer Zoo Internship With Housing vs Summer Zoo Keeper?

AspectSummer Zoo Internship With HousingSummer Zoo Keeper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma; experience with animal care preferred
Work EnvironmentEducational, volunteer-like setting with supervised activitiesHands-on animal care in zoo exhibits, often requiring physical activity
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily educational institutions, zoos, and wildlife centers for training and experienceZoos and wildlife parks for daily animal husbandry and exhibit maintenance

In summary, a Summer Zoo Internship With Housing is an educational program designed for students gaining experience, often with less responsibility, while a Summer Zoo Keeper involves direct animal care duties and more hands-on work. Both roles are valuable in the zoo industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Summer Zoo Internship With Housing jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Summer Zoo Internship With Housing job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Zoo Internship With Housing job openings in Columbus, OH as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Internship. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,822 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Internship

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

This internship provides an opportunity to learn about the general husbandry and care of animals within the Congo Expedition region. Interns will actively assist with daily operations and gain hands-on experience while observing the day-to-day responsibilities of a Zookeeper.


Interns will work alongside full-time keeper staff and may assist with:
  • Preparing animal diets
  • Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures and exhibits
  • Observing animals and reporting behavioral changes
  • Designing and delivering educational interpretation to guests on animal behavior, habitats, and conservation
  • Maintaining area grounds and buildings
  • Adhering to all safety guidelines and protocols
  • Interacting with guests and providing excellent guest service
  • Performing other duties as assigned
Interns will also complete structured learning components, including quizzes, required trainings, projects, and a final reflection paper assigned by the department.
 
Learning Outcomes
 
By the end of the internship, participants will:
  • Understand the fundamentals of husbandry for species within the Congo Expedition region
  • Gain practical experience in daily care routines for a diverse collection of animals
  • Learn animal behavior observation and reporting techniques
  • Develop knowledge of safety procedures and professional standards in animal care
  • Strengthen communication, interpretation, and teamwork skills in a zoological setting
Benefits of This Internship
  • Hands-on experience working within a professional zoo setting
  • Exposure to careers in animal care, conservation, and wildlife management
  • Opportunities to collaborate with experienced animal care professionals
  • Development of practical skills to support future employment or advanced academic pursuits
 

  • Second-year college student or recent graduate (within 2 years) in Zoology, Biology, Wildlife Management, Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or related field
  • 3.0 GPA or higher preferred
  • TB test required upon starting
  • Prior animal care experience preferred
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to balance multiple assignments
  • Professional appearance and courteous behavior
  • Ability to maintain cooperative working relationships with Zoo staff and contacts
  • Ability to follow standard operating procedures, including all safety protocols
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, and holidays (e.g., July 4th, Memorial Day, Columbus Day)
  • Subject to BMV check
  • Subject to criminal background check
Physical & Environmental Requirements
  • Ability to perform strenuous physical work
  • Ability to lift, bend, walk, and stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow
Hours
Minimum of 20 hours per week for 12–16 weeks.
 
The RISE Scholarship, generously funded by Battelle, is now open! Eligible interns can apply for a $5,000 scholarship supporting handson, missiondriven internship experiences across the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds—applications are open May 1– June 30, 2026.
To Apply to the RISE Scholarship, please visit: https://www.columbuszoo.org/rise-scholarships