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Veterinary Intern Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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$8

$17

$29

How much do veterinary intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for veterinary intern in Tennessee is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.34 and $19.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a veterinary intern?

Veterinary Interns are recent veterinary school graduates who participate in a structured, supervised training program, typically lasting one year, at a veterinary hospital or clinic. This internship allows them to gain advanced practical experience in areas such as medicine, surgery, and emergency care under the guidance of experienced veterinarians. The goal is to further develop clinical skills, deepen medical knowledge, and prepare for potential specialization or residency programs. Veterinary internships are common in both small animal and large animal practices and are often seen as a stepping stone to advanced veterinary careers.

What are some typical challenges faced by veterinary interns during their internship year?

Veterinary Interns often encounter the challenge of managing a steep learning curve while adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment. Balancing long hours, emergency cases, and overnight shifts can be demanding, particularly when transitioning from academic settings to practical, hands-on patient care. Interns are expected to quickly develop clinical judgment, communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff. Building confidence while seeking mentorship and feedback is essential for success and professional growth in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterinary intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Veterinary Intern, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, foundational clinical skills, and a strong understanding of animal health and diagnostics. Familiarity with veterinary practice management software, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic imaging tools is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are vital soft skills for interacting with clients and collaborating with veterinary staff. These skills and qualities are essential for providing effective patient care, learning in a fast-paced environment, and laying the groundwork for a successful veterinary career.

Are veterinary internships worth it?

Veterinary internships provide hands-on experience, skill development, and networking opportunities essential for a career in veterinary medicine. They often lead to better job prospects and help interns gain practical knowledge of clinical procedures and animal care. However, the value depends on the program's quality and the intern's career goals.

How to get a veterinary internship?

To obtain a veterinary internship, candidates typically need to have completed relevant coursework in veterinary medicine or animal science and demonstrate a strong interest in animal care. Applying through veterinary schools, animal hospitals, or research institutions, and preparing a resume highlighting relevant skills and experience, can improve chances. Some internships may require certifications such as animal handling or safety training.

What is the difference between Veterinary Intern vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectVeterinary InternVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in veterinary school or recent graduateLicensed or certified veterinary technician
Work EnvironmentVeterinary clinics, hospitals, research facilitiesVeterinary clinics, hospitals, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageVeterinary schools, hospitals, research institutionsVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding training roles in veterinary medicineCareer path and certification details

Veterinary interns are typically veterinary students gaining practical experience during or after their studies, while veterinary technicians are licensed professionals providing ongoing support in animal care. Interns focus on learning and observation, whereas technicians perform technical tasks and assist veterinarians regularly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Veterinary jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Veterinary jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Veterinary Intern jobs in Tennessee? For Veterinary Intern jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Veterinary Intern jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Veterinary Intern jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Veterinary Intern jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Veterinary Intern job openings:
Veterinary Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterinary Intern job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

4th Year Vet Student Externship

Nashville Zoo

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

VETERINARY EXTERNSHIPS & PRECEPTORSHIPS

Nashville Zoo Veterinary Department is offering an externship for 4th-year Veterinary School Students, both international and domestic, working towards a career in exotic animal medicine. This internship is posted May 1st through September 15th of every year with interviews in October.

Purpose
The Veterinary Intern assists in every aspect of the medical care of the Nashville Zoo's animals, including veterinary procedures, clinical lab work, and care of hospitalized/quarantined animals.

Key Responsibilities
-Work with three full-time veterinarians, three full time licensed veterinary technicians, and two full-time hospital keepers.

-Assist with day-to-day operations of the zoo's medical procedures including preventative and emergency care including examinations, clinical procedures, surgery, and necropsy.

-Assist doctors in keeping thorough records of all medical cases and procedures.

-Assist with animal husbandry (cleaning, feeding, and medicating) of hospitalized patients and quarantine animals.

-Provide laboratory support for veterinary medical technicians, including hematology, parasitology, and cytology.

-Responsible for researching and studying about upcoming and current cases

-Assist with tasks that keep the hospital function smoothly including stocking of medical supplies, wrapping surgical equipment, and maintaining the cleanliness of the hospital.

-Responsible for presenting a 25 to 30- minute presentation towards the end of their externship to the animal care staff on either a current, pertinent topic or on a research project performed by the student.

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

Dr. Louden Wright, Associate Veterinarian
Kristen Nettleton, Hospital Keeper II

Duration
Minimum of 4 weeks

Qualifications

- Must be enrolled in clinical year of Veterinary school

- Internship requires a minimum commitment of 40 hours a week

- Applicants for this position must apply and are required to submit to a criminal background check as well as show recent proof of a negative TB test.

Desired Skills
- Ability to perform duties without direct supervision
- Ability to function as a team with both paid and volunteer staff
- Ability to follow both oral and written direction
- Ability to adhere to the schedule agreed upon
- Ability to interact positively with the public, especially to give them information about the animals and the zoo
- Ability to responsibly use and maintain zoo equipment and tools
- Willingness to work with a large variety of animals
- Ability to lift 30 pounds
- Ability to perform duties outdoors in all weather conditions, as needed

Benefits to Intern
- Gain professional, hands-on experience at an AZA accredited Zoo
- Meet new and exciting people
- Gaining knowledge of Nashville Zoo's history
- Ambassador for animal and conservation education
- Enhance personal creativity and portfolio
- Volunteer hours for organizational benefits
- Letters of reference for future job opportunities

Note: Nashville Zoo Externships are unpaid. We are, however, able to provide housing. We are not able to provide reimbursement for travel expenses. Academic requirements for institution credit are the responsibility of the student intern to fulfill. Nashville Zoo will make every effort to support the student in their academic goals as they relate to the internship position outlined in the provided position description.

TO APPLY:

You will need to include the following:

  1. Cover letter stating your interest in zoological/wildlife medicine
  2. Resume
  3. Contact information for two references

Applications are open May 1 to September 15

Interviews will be conducted October for the following school year

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

ABOUT NASHVILLE ZOO

Nashville Zoo is a 200-acre institution accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) whose mission is to inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership. Located in the heart of Nashville, the zoo has an extensive animal collection and attracts more than one million visitors annually, as well as serving a diverse community through outreach programs within greater Nashville and mid-Tennessee. For more information, visit www.nashvillezoo.org

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. Weekend, holiday, and some evening work may be required.