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Zoo Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New York Aquarium

Federal Legislative Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$17 - $22/hr

Federal Legislative Intern Dates: June - early September, with flexibility in start and end dates ... WCS combines the power of its zoos and an aquarium in New York City and a Global Conservation ...

Nashville Zoo

Animal Care Internship

Nashville, TN

$700/wk

Answer visitors' questions about animals and the Zoo, helping to educate the public on conservation efforts Complete one project highlighting intern's interest and take aways from the experience and ...

Nashville Zoo

Animal Care Internship

Nashville, TN · On-site

$700/wk

Answer visitors' questions about animals and the Zoo, helping to educate the public on conservation efforts Complete one project highlighting intern's interest and take aways from the experience and ...

Nashville Zoo

Animal Care Internship

Nashville, TN · On-site

$700/wk

Answer visitors' questions about animals and the Zoo, helping to educate the public on conservation efforts Complete one project highlighting intern's interest and take aways from the experience and ...

fwzoo

Nutritional Services Intern

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Nutritional Services Intern Interested applicants should submit a resume and a letter of intent ... Students are introduced to activities critical to a comprehensive Zoo Nutrition program, including ...

Indianapolis Zoo

Aquarist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Professional experience working at a public zoo or aquarium as staff or as intern preferred, not required. * Knowledge of water quality pertaining to marine fish and invertebrates is strongly desired.

Indianapolis Zoo

Aquarist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Professional experience working at a public zoo or aquarium as staff or as intern preferred, not required. * Knowledge of water quality pertaining to marine fish and invertebrates is strongly desired.

Indianapolis Zoo

Aquarist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Professional experience working at a public zoo or aquarium as staff or as intern preferred, not required. * Knowledge of water quality pertaining to marine fish and invertebrates is strongly desired.

The Dancing Horses Theatre

Exotic Animal Intern

Delavan, WI · On-site

$100 - $200/wk

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships available from APRIL - NOVEMBER . This internship is perfect for anyone wanting to specialize in the animal ...

The Dancing Horses Theatre

Exotic Animal Intern

Delavan, WI · On-site

$100 - $200/wk

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships available from APRIL - NOVEMBER . This internship is perfect for anyone wanting to specialize in the animal ...

Dallas Zoo

Senior Zoologist - Birds

Dallas, TX

Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups; Understand and ... intern/volunteer goals Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris ...

Knoxville Zoo

Herpetology Keeper

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Examples include working with animals at veterinary clinics, pet stores, on farms, or as an intern or volunteer at a zoo. * Vehicle operation is required for full time positions, and applicants must ...

Knoxville Zoo

Herpetology Keeper

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Examples include working with animals at veterinary clinics, pet stores, on farms, or as an intern or volunteer at a zoo. * Vehicle operation is required for full time positions, and applicants must ...

ACCESS, Inc

Childcare Intern

Akron, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Childcare Intern (Unpaid) Job Type: Part-Time, Unpaid Internship Schedule: Up to 20 hours/week ... Supervise field trips to local points of interest (zoo, state parks, sporting events, etc.) * Teach ...

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Zoo Intern information

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$17

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How much do zoo intern jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 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 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 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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 25% Full Time, 66% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 13% Hybrid, and 22% 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 19 days ago

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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