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Zookeeper Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The CALDWELL ZOO

Veterinary Medicine Internship

Tyler, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... zoo medicine. Under the supervision and direction of the veterinary staff, the veterinary medicine intern will participate in and/or become familiar with all aspects of the veterinary department ...

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 ...

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How much do zookeeper intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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 are Zookeeper Interns?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Zookeeper Intern, and why are they important?

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 some typical daily responsibilities for a Zookeeper Intern, and how do they support the animal care team?

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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Zookeeper Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Internship, 1% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Conservation Education Internship - Fall 2026

Dallas Zoo Management

Dallas, TX • On-site

Internship

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description
Conservation Education Internship - Fall 2026
Dallas Zoo's Education Department is focused on providing high-quality educational programming from seasonal camps, family, early childhood and school programs to in-park interpretation and community conservation engagement initiatives.
Working alongside education staff, interns in the education department have the opportunity to receive training and experience in effective instructional techniques for interpretation, conservation and science-oriented program development, outcomes-based program evaluation, working with volunteers and key community partners to develop community conservation engagement events and customer service in a team-based professional environment.
There are many different roles in the education department; at the beginning of the internship, interns will have the opportunity to choose a specific position to shadow based on personal interest. Interns will also be responsible for completing a demonstration project on one of the topics outlined above.
The ideal candidate is a highly motivated individual looking to expand their knowledge of interpretation and conservation education programming.
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 States. Interns become actively involved in the Zoo's animal care departments, conservation/research efforts, operations, and/or administrative positions.
Interns work 20-24 hours per week for a maximum of 12 weeks. Each placement is designed to help the intern gain experience related to their education. Most internship positions are unpaid. The Zoo does not provide transportation, housing, or a stipend.
All interns will be required to complete an educational project, participate in at least one service-learning project, and attend professional development sessions designed especially for Dallas Zoo interns.
The Dallas Zoo Volunteer Services Department will work with students/schools to document internship experience needed to gain university/college credit.
Qualifications:
  • Must be able to perform physical challenges involved in the daily duties of the department including talking for long periods, walking throughout the park, lifting/carrying equipment weighing approximately 50 lbs., sitting, kneeling, stooping, crawling, twisting, reaching above the head, pulling, bending, and climbing stairs and ladders.
  • The candidate must be able and willing to perform all duties outdoors and in all weather conditions.
  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
  • Establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, and zoo guests

Internship requirements:
  • Current college or university student or applications submitted within one year after graduation
  • Ability to work 20 - 24 hours per week for 12 weeks
  • Must be otherwise eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of the internship
  • Candidates selected for internship must pass a background check and TB test.

Application Deadline: 1 August 2026
Fall Internship Start Date: 22 September 2026

Apply