ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zoo Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dallas Zoo

Volunteer Management Intern - Fall 2026

Dallas, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Description The Dallas Zoo College Internship Program provides a learning opportunity for currently ... Each placement is designed to help the intern gain experience related to their education. Most ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsZoo Intern Jobs

Zoo Intern information

See salary details

$8

$17

$24

How much do zoo intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo 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 zoo interns?

Zoo interns are students or recent graduates who gain hands-on experience working at a zoo, assisting with animal care, education, and operational tasks. Internships are typically designed to provide practical exposure to careers in animal science, conservation, or zookeeping. Interns may help with preparing diets, cleaning enclosures, observing animals, supporting educational programs, or conducting research. These roles are usually supervised and are meant to enhance learning while contributing to the zoo’s daily operations.

What is the difference between Zoo Intern vs Zoo Volunteer?

AspectZoo InternZoo Volunteer
Required CredentialsSome internships require coursework in biology or related fields; may need specific certificationsNo formal credentials typically required
Work EnvironmentStructured, supervised roles involving hands-on animal care and educational activitiesFlexible, often assisting with visitor services, event support, or general tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by zoos for educational and training programs, often part of academic creditCommonly used by zoos for community engagement and support roles

Zoo Interns usually have specific educational requirements and participate in structured programs, gaining hands-on experience and sometimes academic credit. Zoo Volunteers typically offer flexible support without formal credentials, assisting with various tasks to help zoo operations. Both roles support the zoo's mission but differ in structure and expectations.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Intern, you generally need a background in biology, animal science, or a related field, often supported by coursework or volunteer experience in animal care. Familiarity with animal husbandry tools, record-keeping systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong observational skills, teamwork, and a genuine passion for animal welfare are crucial soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring animal well-being, supporting zoo operations, and gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field.

What are some common challenges Zoo Interns face during their internship, and how can they overcome them?

Zoo Interns often encounter challenges such as adapting to early morning shifts, physically demanding tasks like cleaning enclosures, and interacting with a diverse range of animal species. Additionally, learning to follow strict safety protocols and working outdoors in various weather conditions can be demanding. To overcome these challenges, interns should maintain a positive attitude, communicate openly with their supervisors, and be proactive in seeking feedback and guidance. Building strong relationships with team members and staying organized can also help interns succeed and make the most of their experience.
More about Zoo Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Intern jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs? The most popular types of Zoo jobs are:
What states have the most Zoo Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Intern jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Zoo Intern jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Intern jobs are:
Zoo Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 1% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

2026 Fall Ambassador Animal Intern - OKC Zoo

Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City, OK

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Oklahoma City Zoo rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 36 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

This internship is designed to be an entry point for someone who is seeking a career working in the field of Ambassador Animal programs. Interns will receive training and experience in the day-to-day management of ambassador animal programs by working alongside staff to assist with animal care, animal training, enrichment and welfare data collection. Interns will also gain training on guest education and public interaction to enhance visitor experience.

Employment Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Duration: 12 weeks - Starting on September 5th 2026

Schedule: Fall 2026 - 20hrs a week

Compensation: 14.00 per hour

Department: Conservation, Education and Science

Direct Supervisor: Rachel Sides - Behavioral Husbandry Coordinator

Primary Work Location: Zoo setting both indoors and outdoors

Certification: Completion of assigned OKC Zoo HSI training in the first 2 weeks of employment.

Other: This position is safety sensitive. It is subject to pre-employment and/or periodic background checks and drug testing.  This position works around animals susceptible to specific respiratory diseases, thus is subject to annual tuberculosis testing.

Internship Summary: This internship is designed to be an entry point for someone who is seeking a career working in the field of Ambassador Animal programs. Interns will receive training and experience in the day-to-day management of ambassador animal programs by working alongside staff to assist with animal care, animal training, enrichment and welfare data collection. Interns will also gain training on guest education and public interaction to enhance visitor experience.

Development Outcomes 

An intern in this position will complete assigned tasks resulting in the following learning outcomes

  • Intern will develop an understanding of the essential role that zoos and aquariums play in conservation 
  • Interns will develop a thorough understanding of safety procedures necessary for working with animal collections in a Zoo
  • Intern will learn the basics of guest interaction in a zoo or aquarium setting including how to convey educational information and effectively communicate conservation efforts 
  • Intern will learn how to prepare and maintain animal records and reports 
  • Intern will learn basic animal care and husbandry techniques
  • Intern will assist in the use of technology to conduct animal observations and collect data 
  • Intern will assist with enrichment initiatives as assigned 
  • Intern will understand basic operant conditioning principles related to behavioral training of Ambassador Animals 

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Commitment of schedule
  • Current college or graduate student pursuing an applicable degree, recent graduate of an applicable degree, or relevant education with interest in transitioning into an applicable career 
  • Interest in pursuing career in animal care
  • Have the ability to work well in a busy and fast paced environment
  • Provide own housing and transportation
  • Basic understanding of computer operation and camera usage.

What Oklahoma City Zoo employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply