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Zoo Intern Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Related experience includes experience either as an intern or paid employee of a pet store, animal breeding facility (horse, dogs, etc), zoo, or aquarium resulting in direct knowledge of Animal ...

Zoo Intern information

What is a zoo intern?

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 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.

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 most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs in Georgia?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Georgia are:

What cities in Georgia are hiring for Zoo Intern jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most Zoo Intern job openings:

    Infographic showing various Zoo Intern job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

    Full-time

    Posted 18 days ago


    Job description

    POSITION SUMMARY

    Under direction by Senior Biologist, Zoological Supervisor, or Zoological Curator the assistant responsibilities will include basic animal husbandry on a daily basis. This will include feeding and cleaning of exhibits and holding to established standards. Assistants will also be responsible for public interactions and educational presentations:

    • ability to feed animals following set diet guidelines
    • clean assigned animal holding to established standards
    • public speaking
    • with direction and training from Senior Biologist, Zoological Supervisor or Zoological Curator, the ability to handle education animals
    • ability to lift 50 pounds
    • ability to follow and understand instructions
    • be able to keep a daily written record of animals and events

    BEYOND PAYDAY PERKS:

    • FREE Season Admission to Wild Adventures For You and One Guest
    • Complimentary Tickets To Give To Others
    • Exclusive Team Member Events
    • Park Wide Discounts
    • Internal Promotions / Career Development Opportunities
    • Team Member Recognition and Prizes
    • Wholesome, family-oriented work environment

    BENEFITS: Health Benefits and 401K offered after the waiting period

    Required Skills

    Competency Statements

    • Accuracy - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
    • Analytical Skills - The Ability to be given direction, understand the direction, and achieve positive results by analyzing the situation, the materials given, and the tasks to be done.
    • Communication Skills - Ability to communicate effectively with others using spoken or written words.
    • Customer Oriented - Ability to take care of the guests'' needs while following company procedures.
    • Detail-Oriented - Ability to pay attention to the small things. Like wiping down the stainless steel trash cans in the restrooms or removing spots from the mirrors.
    • Self-motivated - Ability to be internally inspired to perform a task to the best of one's ability using his or her own drive or initiative and not requiring constant supervision to achieve positive results.
    • Applied Learning - Ability to participate in needed learning activities in a way that makes the most of the learning experience.
    • Initiative - Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
    • Time Management - Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines.
    • Responsible - Ability to be held accountable or answerable for one's conduct.
    • Self-motivated - Ability to be internally inspired to perform a task to the best of one's ability using his or her own drive or initiative.
    • Relationship Building - Ability to effectively build relationships with customers and co-workers.

    EXPERIENCE: Related experience includes experience either as an intern or paid employee of a pet store, animal breeding facility (horse, dogs, etc), zoo, or aquarium resulting in direct knowledge of Animal Husbandry basics and guidelines.

    EDUCATION: Currently enrolled in High School, High School Graduate, or GED preferred

    COMPUTER SKILLS: Competency in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office Word and Excel

    OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

    • Must be at least 18 years of age
    • Must be able to read, write, and speak English
    • Must be available to work days, evenings, weekdays, weekends, and holidays as needed
    • Must have reliable transportation

    Wild Adventures Theme Park is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status. Wild Adventures Theme Park drives a welcoming culture where ideas and decisions from all people support our efforts to be relevant in an ever-changing world.

    PHYSICAL DEMANDSN (Not Applicable)Activity is not applicable to this position.O (Occasionally)Position requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0 - 2.5+ hrs/day)F (Frequently)Position requires this activity from 33% - 66% of the time (2.5 - 5.5+ hrs/day)C (Constantly)Position requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+ hrs/day)StandCLift/CarryWalkC 10 lbs or lessCSitO 11-20 lbsCManually ManipulateC 21-50 lbsFGraspC 51-100 lbsOReach OutwardF Over 100 lbsOReach Above ShoulderFSpeakOPush/PullClimbO 12 lbs or lessCCrawlO 13-25 lbsCSquat or KneelF 26-40 lbsFBendF 41-100 lbsOOther Physical Requirements Vision (Near, Distance, Color, Peripheral, Depth) Sense of Sound - ability to hear with both ears Sense of Smell Sense of Taste Sense of Touch