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Zoo Internships Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 enrolled undergraduate or graduate students at an accredited college/university in the United ...

Assumes select supervisory duties in the absence of Zoo Supervisors. * Serves as a positive role model for interns, volunteers, and other keepers and staff. * Demonstrates a clear understanding of ...

... internships. * Experience with basic carpentry and mechanical skills. * Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license. ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving ...

... internships. * Experience with basic carpentry and mechanical skills. * Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license. ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving ...

One year of experience in animal care in a zoo setting or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian is required, which may be gained through internships, volunteer experience, or employment.

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How much do zoo internships jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo internships in the United States is $15.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are zoo internships?

Zoo internships are structured programs offered by zoos to provide hands-on experience and training to students or recent graduates interested in animal care, conservation, education, or zoo operations. Interns may work alongside zookeepers and educators, assisting with animal care, enrichment, research, and public education. These internships are valuable for gaining practical skills, networking within the zoological field, and enhancing future career opportunities in animal-related professions.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a zoo internship, and how do these contribute to my professional development?

During a zoo internship, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on activities such as animal husbandry, habitat maintenance, assisting with enrichment activities, and observing animal health checks. These experiences allow you to develop practical skills in animal care, teamwork, and communication, all of which are highly valued in zoological and wildlife careers. Internships often include opportunities to shadow zookeepers, interact with educational staff, and contribute to conservation projects, providing a well-rounded foundation for future roles in the field.

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 with animals. Familiarity with animal care protocols, safety guidelines, and sometimes basic data entry or animal management software is typically expected. Strong observational skills, reliability, and effective communication help interns stand out when working with staff and the public. These skills ensure the safety, welfare, and proper care of animals while supporting the zoo’s education and conservation missions.
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What cities are hiring for Zoo Internships jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Internships job openings:
What states have the most Zoo Internships jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Internships jobs include:

Childern's Zoo Intern-Temporary Full-Time

SFZOO

San Francisco, CA

$19.61/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Children's Zoo Temporary One-Year Full-Time Intern

Period of time for temporary position: (40 hours/week, may include working one weekend day, holidays, and occasional evenings)

The San Francisco Zoological Society ("Society") is a non-profit institution that manages and raises funds for San Francisco Zoo and Gardens ("Zoo"). The Society's mission, supra, is summarized as the 3 c's: to connect our visitors with wildlife so that they care about nature and ultimately conserve it. The Society's leadership team is comprised of a President & Executive Director as well as a professional team of Senior Managers. The Society endeavors to meet or exceed the standards of its industry peers, including those established by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums ("AZA"). For over 25 years, the Society has been continuously accredited by the AZA.

The San Francisco Zoo's Intern Program offers a hands-on working experience to individuals with a career interest in a zoological field. The objective of the Zoo's internship program is to provide practical, on-the-job experience; provide exposure to zoo operations and zoo careers; and demonstrate the unique advantages of zoo internships as a supplement to more conventional learning programs. Full-time zoo employees supervise interns. Internships are paid an internship salary of $19.61/hour plus medical, dental, & vision benefits, one-week paid vacation, and sick leave per San Francisco's Sick Leave Ordinance.

The goal of this internship is to learn and successfully perform (under supervision) the duties and responsibilities of a Zoo employee in the Children's Zoo. Experience will include:

Assist with the public education programs

Assist with volunteer programs: recruitment, orientation, and works with scheduling, training, daily supervision.

Assist keeper staff with animal care husbandry, diet and veterinary care of the large and diverse animal collection within the Children's Zoo

Completion of special projects as assigned by Curators as well as one project designed by the intern that advances animal wellness in the Children's Zoo

Assist staff with animal enrichment and training programs

Support facility management and administration

Qualifications: College level coursework in biology, zoology, ecology, or related area; ability to present information to groups; and career interest working with animals. Excellent public speaking skills and be comfortable in front of a large audience, as well as the ability and desire to work with youth volunteers and people of all ages and backgrounds. Must be self-motivated, able to take initiative, and follow directions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Other Qualifications: All applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

Education: High school diploma or general education degree (GED).

Physical Demands/Environment: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit, reach with hands and arms, and climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to tolerate outside weather conditions including inclement weather and must be able tolerate dust, and animal hair/dander.

Salary: $19.61/hour

The San Francisco Zoo encourages bilingual candidates to apply. EOE

Application: Application: Please apply via our web site at:

https://candidate.offerdox.com/clients/c32a6703-4c9c-4d70-b296-b438a4f2cf91/jobs/

Please include a resume and a cover letter detailing your experience as it relates to this position.

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