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Zookeeper Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Intern Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of ...

Dundee Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Position Do you love animals, enjoy working outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care ...

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more ...

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more ...

Binder Park Zoo

Animal Care Intern (Fall)

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

ANIMAL CARE INTERN Mission Statement: Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature ... Comply with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures. * Participate in team oriented zoo ...

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How much do zookeeper intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper 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 is a zookeeper intern?

Zookeeper interns are individuals, often students or recent graduates, who support professional zookeepers in caring for animals at zoos or wildlife facilities. Their duties typically include preparing animal diets, cleaning enclosures, observing animal behavior, and assisting with enrichment activities. Internships provide valuable hands-on experience for those interested in pursuing a career in animal care, wildlife conservation, or veterinary sciences. Zookeeper interns also gain insight into the daily operations of a zoo and learn about species management and public education.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a zookeeper intern?

To thrive as a Zookeeper 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 observation skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help interns succeed in this hands-on role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining safety, and supporting the daily operations of the zoo.

What are the daily responsibilities of a zookeeper intern?

As a Zookeeper Intern, your daily tasks often include preparing animal diets, cleaning enclosures, assisting with enrichment activities, and observing animal behavior. You'll work closely with experienced keepers, learning how to monitor animal health and maintain detailed records. This role is highly collaborative, as you'll coordinate with veterinarians, educators, and other staff to ensure the animals' well-being. The hands-on experience you gain is invaluable, helping you build foundational skills for a career in animal care or wildlife management.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs? The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs are:
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Zookeeper Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper 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.

Zoo Intern

Dundee Township Park District

Carpentersville, IL • On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Salary: Intern

Zoo Intern


Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting?

Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more than 160 animals while gaining valuable real-world experience. This unpaid internship is ideal for college students or recent graduates pursuing a career in zoology, animal science, or a related field.

Why Join Us?

As a Zoo Intern, youll work alongside experienced keepers to learn the daily operations of a zoo, including animal care, husbandry, enrichment, and guest interaction. Youll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career.

What Youll Do:

  • Assist keepers with daily animal care, including feeding and cleaning
  • Help prepare diets and monitor animal behavior
  • Create enrichment activities to support animal well-being
  • Assist with light maintenance and construction projects
  • Support educational presentations and special events for zoo guests
  • Keep accurate records and follow all safety protocols
  • Represent the Dundee Township Park District in a professional and positive manner
  • Complete an animal behavior research project and final zoo project

What You Bring:

  • Current college student or recent graduate (within 2 years) in Zoology or related field
  • At least 2 years of undergraduate coursework preferred
  • Valid drivers license required
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs., bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism when working with guests and staff
  • Problem-solving ability and composure in high-stress or emergency situations
  • Spanish-speaking skills a plus!

Schedule:

This seasonal internship requires 250 hours over 1012 weeks. Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include:

  • 7:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.
  • 11:00 a.m. 3:30 p.m.
  • 7:00 a.m. 3:30 p.m.

Evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required.


In Exchange for Your Time and Talent, We Offer:

  • Select one of the following:
    • Individual Fitness Center (100-day) pass OR
    • Family Season Pass at Dolphin Cove Aquatic Center OR
    • Family Season Pass at Randall Oaks Zoo and Park
  • Free/discounted District programs, merchandise and concessions
  • Credit Union


If youre passionate about animals, eager to learn, and ready to contribute to a positive guest and animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!


Please note: This is an unpaid Internship Opportunity.