ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zoo Keeper Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ZooTampa

Design & Engineering Internship

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Have you ever wanted to help build the future of a world-class zoo? Join ZooTampa's Design ... Position Summary The Design and Engineering Intern will be responsible for providing on-site, daily ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsZoo Keeper Intern Jobs

Zoo Keeper Intern information

See salary details

$8

$17

$24

How much do zoo keeper intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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?

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 is a zoo keeper intern?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Internship, 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Animal Care Intern - Fall 2026

New York Aquarium

New York, NY

$540 - $1.2K/wk

Internship

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Animal Care Intern - Fall 2026

Location: Central Park Zoo

Department: Animal

Duration & Schedule: Fall 2026 (September- early December) Approx 8-12 weeks; 16-24  hours per week

Stipend: $540-$1200 (depending on duration and schedule) paid as one lump sum upon the completion of the position, less applicable taxes. 

Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by August 14, 2026; the position may be filled before the deadline. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.

 

Overview: 

The Animal Care Internship at the Central Park Zoo (CPZ) offers an immersive, hands-on learning experience designed for individuals pursuing careers in zoology, biology, veterinary medicine, or conservation. The goal of this internship is to provide hands-on education and training in animal husbandry. CPZ interns will learn many aspects of animal care including exhibit and enclosure maintenance, diet preparation, animal observation, animal handling (based on experience), and enrichment. CPZ interns will be assigned to a specific area: the Tisch Children's Zoo, Tropics and Polar areas. Interns will also be invited to join in professional lectures and training sessions and also have the opportunity to learn about other career opportunities at the zoo.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  • Interns will develop a comprehensive understanding of daily animal husbandry practices, including diet preparation, species identification, and the natural history of collection animals
  • Interns will gain hands-on experience maintaining and evaluating animal habitats to support optimal health and welfare
  • Interns will build skills in behavioral observation, data collection, and record-keeping, contributing to ongoing animal management and welfare assessments
  • Interns will strengthen communication skills by engaging with zoo visitors and effectively interpreting animal care, conservation messaging, and zoo operations for the public
  • Interns will acquire exposure to veterinary care through occasional observation of veterinary rounds (availability dependent), enhancing understanding of animal health management

Apply