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Zoo Keeper Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ZooTampa

Animal Care Internship Birds- Fall 2026

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Performing daily care of the animals alongside the keepers. * Diet preparation, cleaning ... Candidates seeking academic credit must have arrangements agreed upon between the Zoo and their ...

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Zoo Keeper Intern information

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$8

$17

$24

How much do zoo keeper intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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.
Curatorial Assistant - Animals

Curatorial Assistant - Animals

Peoria Park District

Peoria, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Duties: Under general supervision by the Curator of Animals, the Curatorial Assistant - Animals (Part-Time) is responsible for the following:
  • Assist with inventorying and acquiring animal supplies.
  • Assist with clerical tasks associated with the animal nutrition program; including, but not limited to: updating diet cards, recording diet changes in the nutrition database, and updating browse lists.
  • Assist with parasite control program, including, but not limited to: the preparation of collection containers and associated record keeping.
  • Inventory and stock safety supplies
  • Assist with clerical tasks associated with the intern program.
  • Assist with animal medical records, including data entry and filing.
  • Assist with the pest control program.
  • Wear the proper designated uniform during regular zoo hours.
  • Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Support all aspects of the Park District's safety program.
  • Perform all other duties assigned.

Essential Functions: The work requires periodic physical exertion in handling supplies, equipment, and materials typically found within a zoological environment. Prolonged standing, bending, stooping, and the ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds will be required on an as-needed basis. Must have the ability to manipulate keyboard, phone, and fax machine. The indoor work setting is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated. Outdoor work will expose the incumbent to a wide range of weather patterns and environmental surroundings.
Education: A bachelor's degree is preferred. Although a degree is preferred, experience in a similar position with similar duties and responsibilities may be substituted for all or part of the education preference.
Experience: A minimum of three years of experience working with computers including databases and spreadsheets. Clerical experience preferred.
Knowledge and Ability:
  • Must be able to demonstrate proficient communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with staff who occupy positions at various levels throughout the organization.
  • Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
  • Requires valid Illinois State Driver's License.
  • Knowledge of basic zoology or biology is preferred.
  • Ability to keep accurate records in a manner that can be used efficiently.
  • Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.

Perks:
  • Part-time employees enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.
All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

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