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Wildlife Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NWF

Digital Media Intern

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Founded in 1936, the National Wildlife Federation (NWF or Federation) is America's largest and most ... Primary Responsibilities The Digital Media Intern will work directly with the Communications ...

Mountain Lake

Be Seen First

Nature Center Intern (Seasonal)

Pembroke, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Nature Center Intern (Seasonal) Position Summary The Nature Center Intern supports the mission of ... wildlife - Comfortable handling animals or willing to learn - Strong communication and guest ...

MDC

College Intern -Forestry

Winsted, CT

$15 - $19.75/hr

EOE/AA/M/F/D/V DUTIES Intern will have an opportunity to work closely with forestry staff to gain field experience with watershed forest management activities including timber harvesting, wildlife ...

MDC

College Intern -Forestry

Winsted, CT

$15 - $19.75/hr

EOE/AA/M/F/D/V DUTIES Intern will have an opportunity to work closely with forestry staff to gain field experience with watershed forest management activities including timber harvesting, wildlife ...

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How much do wildlife intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for wildlife intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Wildlife Intern, you generally need coursework or a degree in biology, environmental science, or a related field, along with a passion for wildlife conservation. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS devices, and basic laboratory equipment is often required, and certifications in first aid or wildlife handling can be beneficial. Strong observational skills, teamwork, and adaptability help interns excel in unpredictable fieldwork and collaborative research settings. These qualifications ensure safety, effective data gathering, and meaningful contributions to conservation projects.

What are some typical tasks and learning opportunities for a Wildlife Intern during their placement?

As a Wildlife Intern, you can expect to engage in a variety of hands-on tasks such as assisting with field surveys, monitoring wildlife populations, collecting data, and helping with habitat restoration projects. Interns often support experienced biologists and conservationists, gaining valuable insight into ecological research methods and conservation practices. This role also provides opportunities to develop skills in data entry, report writing, and public outreach, all while working both independently and as part of a collaborative team. The experience is designed to offer a comprehensive introduction to wildlife management, which can be a strong foundation for future careers in environmental science and conservation.

What is the difference between Wildlife Intern vs Wildlife Technician?

AspectWildlife InternWildlife Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college coursework in wildlife or related fieldsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research projects, assisting with data collectionFieldwork, habitat management, animal care, data recording
Employer & Industry UsageWildlife organizations, research projects, conservation programsGovernment agencies, wildlife rehabilitation centers, conservation organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level, learning opportunities, gaining experienceTechnical skills, fieldwork responsibilities, career advancement

Wildlife Interns typically gain hands-on experience through internships, often with minimal formal credentials, focusing on learning and assisting in fieldwork. Wildlife Technicians usually hold relevant degrees and perform more technical, responsible roles in wildlife management and conservation efforts. Both roles are vital in the industry but differ mainly in experience level and responsibilities.

What are wildlife interns?

Wildlife interns are individuals, often students or recent graduates, who work with organizations such as wildlife rehabilitation centers, conservation groups, or research institutions to gain hands-on experience in the field of wildlife management and conservation. Their responsibilities may include assisting with animal care, conducting field surveys, collecting data, supporting public education programs, and helping with habitat restoration projects. These internships provide valuable practical experience, professional networking opportunities, and a pathway to careers in wildlife biology, conservation, or environmental education.
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Wildlife Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildlife Intern job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Animal Welfare Intern

Lincoln Park Zoological Society

Chicago, IL

$17/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Posted yesterday

Job description

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org. 

General Summary

Lincoln Park Zoo’s Animal Welfare Science Program is seeking a motivated, enthusiastic intern to support data collection efforts at the zoo.  This internship will involve conducting behavior observations of Asian small-clawed otters as part of a multi-institutional research study being led by Lincoln Park Zoo and supported by a grant from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  The intern will primarily be reviewing video recordings of otters recorded at zoos and aquariums around the USA to score animal behavior data. In addition, the intern will assist with in-person behavior observations at Lincoln Park Zoo using the ZooMonitor app and support data analysis.

This paid internship position is scheduled to start September 1st and will be 4.5 months in duration.  The position will be in-person only and part-time (20 hours per week, weekdays only). Remote work and weekend availability cannot be accommodated for this internship.

Essential Job Function

  • Conduct computer-based animal behavior observations from pre-recorded videos
  • Assist with in-person animal behavior observations using the ZooMonitor app
  • Review training materials and pass inter-observer reliability tests
  • Create basic, summary data visualizations
  • Regularly communicate progress with the Primary Investigator

Learning Objectives

  • Learn scientific methods for observing animal behavior
  • Gain in-depth knowledge of Asian small-clawed otter behavior
  • Become proficient using software tools (e.g., ZooMonitor app) to record behavior
  • Develop skills in analyzing animal behavior data

Additional Responsibilities

  • May assist with other on-grounds behavior research
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Possess strong detail-oriented and critical-thinking skills
  • Possess strong computer, organizational (project management), and communication skills (written and spoken)
  • Ability to work independently, including managing time and prioritizing tasks efficiently
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
  • Previous experience with animal behavior research is preferred

Education Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree preferred but will consider currently enrolled Junior or Senior-level students
  • Preferred major in Biology, Animal Behavior, Psychology, Zoology or other related field

Our Commitment

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people.  For Wildlife. For All.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS

  • Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
  • Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
  • Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
  • Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
  • A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

Salary: $17.00/hr

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