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Zoo Keeper Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

fwzoo

Nutritional Services Intern

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Students are introduced to activities critical to a comprehensive Zoo Nutrition program, including ... keeping, and food safety protocols • Intern may also participate in diet formulation and diet ...

Dallas Zoo

Senior Zoologist - Birds

Dallas, TX

Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups; Understand and ... Follow all safety protocols and understand the animal keeper's role in emergency procedures ...

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Zoo Keeper Intern information

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How much do zoo keeper intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo keeper 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 Keeper Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoo Keeper Intern, you generally need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, along with a strong interest in animal care. Familiarity with animal husbandry tools, safety protocols, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, teamwork, and attention to detail help interns excel in both daily animal care and communication with staff and visitors. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure animal welfare, maintain safety, and support the educational mission of a zoo.

What is the difference between Zoo Keeper Intern vs Zoo Keeper?

AspectZoo Keeper InternZoo Keeper
CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college coursework, some zoos may require related courseworkHigh school diploma; often a degree or certification in zoology, animal science, or related field
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, temporary position in zoo settingsFull-time, hands-on role with animal care responsibilities
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with animal feeding, cleaning, and habitat maintenance under supervisionFeeding, cleaning, enrichment, and monitoring animals independently

The main difference between a Zoo Keeper Intern and a Zoo Keeper is experience and responsibility level. Interns typically assist with basic tasks under supervision, while Zoo Keepers perform more independent, hands-on animal care. Internships serve as training opportunities, whereas Zoo Keeper roles are full-time positions requiring more credentials and experience.

What types of hands-on experience can I expect to gain as a Zoo Keeper Intern?

As a Zoo Keeper Intern, you will have the opportunity to assist with daily animal care routines such as feeding, cleaning habitats, and monitoring animal behaviors. You'll also support enrichment activities designed to stimulate the animals and may participate in preparing educational materials for visitors. Working closely with experienced keepers, you'll learn about animal nutrition, health monitoring, and proper handling techniques. This role often involves teamwork and communication with veterinary staff, educators, and other interns, offering a well-rounded introduction to zoo operations.

What are Zoo Keeper Interns?

Zoo Keeper Interns are individuals, often students or recent graduates, who gain hands-on experience working in a zoo under the supervision of professional zookeepers. Their responsibilities typically include preparing animal diets, cleaning enclosures, observing animal behavior, and assisting with enrichment activities. Interns learn about animal care, conservation, and zoo operations, which helps prepare them for future careers in animal science or related fields. These internships are usually temporary and can be either paid or unpaid, depending on the zoo.
What cities are hiring for Zoo Keeper Intern jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Keeper Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Keeper jobs? The most popular types of Zoo Keeper jobs are:
What states have the most Zoo Keeper Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Keeper Intern jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Zoo Keeper Intern jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Keeper Intern jobs are:
Zoo Keeper Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Keeper Intern job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Internship, 50% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.
Temporary Zookeeper I Birds - Part-time

Temporary Zookeeper I Birds - Part-time

City of Norfolk

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$21.20/hr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking to hire an enthusiastic and experienced Temporary Zookeeper I Birds. Zookeeper positions play an essential role in animal care, welfare and ensuring safe working environments at the zoo where we maintain many rare, endangered and potentially dangerous animals. This position works in a team environment that plays a critical part of maintaining good standards of animal care, presentation and customer service to nearly 500,000 visitors to the zoo each year.

This position will be assigned to primarily work on the Bird team with animals housed within the bird section but may be required to work in any of the Animal Care areas as needed. The Virginia Zoological Park is committed to saving and protecting the world's wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world. Departmental Hiring Hourly Rate: $21.20 Essential Functions Essential functions include but are not limited to: Observes animals, checking for medical problems, changes in behavior, feeding habits, and overall well-being

Feeds animals as specified by curatorial and veterinary staff in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements. Cleans, disinfects and maintains animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools and other areas. Keeps daily records on each animal (behavioral observations, and exhibit integrity and maintenance, etc.)

Supervises interns when required. Conducts animal demonstrations for zoo visitors and writes educational presentations. Must be able to handle and assist in the restraint and capture of animals.

Must be able to lift heavy feed and manure receptacles and walk long distances. Must have knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals. Must have knowledge of animal restraint apparatus such as ropes, squeeze cages, catch poles, shifts, nets etc.

Must be able to use tools and operate small equipment. Requires normal hearing and seeing capabilities and the ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push and pull. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and work in a team environment.

Must work in a friendly and professional manner with staff, volunteers, colleagues and zoo visitors. Other duties as assigned. Education/Experience Completion of a 4-year bachelor's degree from an accredited college or an associate's degree specifically in zoo keeping from a college program specializing in zookeeping and wildlife management.

A minimum of three months' experience working in an AZA accredited institution as a zookeeper, paid zookeeper intern, or similar position. Additional Information & Requirements Valid Driver's License Work hours: Working a flexible schedule, which can vary. Working weekends and holidays may be required.

Maximum of 1040 hours for this position. Work location: Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk 23504

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