Animal Care Internship Spring 2027
Nashville Zoo
$12 / hour
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Description
NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
ANIMAL CARE INTERNSHIP | Spring 2027 | 1/18/2027- 4/16/2026
Overview: Animal Care Interns will be placed in one of the following areas Aquatics, Avian, Behavioral Husbandry, Carnivore, Contact Areas, Herpetology, Hoofstock, Lorikeets, or Primates. Applicants may indicate preference of department, but final placement is assigned by the Zoo.
Interns will observe a variety of species across the Zoo, assist with daily care routines, and collect data that will help animal care professionals make evidence-based decisions regarding the animals’ well-being.
TIME COMMITMENT: This is a full-time position, 30-40 hours a week, for ~12 weeks. There are no opportunities to work overtime. Start Date is 1/18/2027. End Date is 4/16/2026
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist with daily husbandry care, including cleaning habitats, managing diets, and assisting with enrichment and training.
- Monitor animal health and behavior and report observations to animal care staff.
- Prepare diets and assist in feeding routines for select species under supervision.
- Maintain accurate records related to animal care and observations.
- Support zoo staff with habitat and facility maintenance, ensuring clean and safe environments for the animals.
- Engage in hands-on learning experiences, including enrichment design, training sessions, and animal handling (as appropriate for the species).
- Answer visitors’ questions about animals and the Zoo, helping to educate the public on conservation efforts
- Complete one project highlighting intern’s interest and take aways from the experience and benefitting intern’s department
APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads
- Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior
- This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
- Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
- Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
INTERN TRAINING:
All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation, Education Orientation, and a 4 presentation professional development series throughout the course of their internship.
BENEFITS:
- Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week
- $700 living stipend for each 12-week term
- Housing provided if outside of a 40 mile radius of Nashville Zoo
- Provides opportunities to learn proper management of animals in human care
- Observe and participate in husbandry, training, and additional care for our resident animals
- Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution
- Professional development series highlighting topics such as guest engagement, resume building, etc.
Pre-Employment Requirements:
- Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening.
- Provide proof of a negative TB test.
- Provide proof of a valid driver’s license.
APPLICATION PROCESS – Interested candidates should complete the application HERE and attach the following documents:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- (2) Letters of Recommendation
Benefits
- professional development
About this role
Nashville Zoo's Animal Care Internship offers a structured 12-week immersion into professional animal care operations during spring 2027. You'll be assigned to one of nine specialized departments—ranging from Aquatics and Primates to Herpetology and Contact Areas—where you'll assist with daily husbandry, habitat maintenance, diet preparation, and behavioral monitoring. The work is hands-on and physical: expect to spend 30–40 hours weekly standing, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working outdoors in all weather conditions while supporting the zoo's AZA-accredited animal care standards.
This role suits someone at least 18 with genuine interest in animal behavior and a willingness to learn zoo operations from the ground up. You'll gain practical experience in enrichment design, training sessions, and species-appropriate animal handling, while collecting data that informs care decisions. The internship includes formal orientation, a four-part professional development series, and the chance to complete a capstone project in your area of interest.
The position pays $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours weekly, plus a $700 living stipend. Housing is provided if you live more than 40 miles from Nashville. You'll need to pass a background check, drug screening, and TB test before starting January 18, 2027.
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