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Animal Care Internship

Nashville, TN

NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
ANIMAL CARE INTERNSHIP | FALL 2025

 

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 determined by the zoo.

TIME COMMITMENT: This is a full-time position averaging 30-40 hours per week, for ~12 weeks. There are no opportunities to work overtime hours.

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.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES -- Applicants will be assessed according to their knowledge, skills and abilities in the following areas:

  • Passion and interest in exploring zoo or conservation related field.
  • Ability to work with all age groups.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Guest-service oriented and enthusiastic about providing guests an enriching experience.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both speaking and writing.

 

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be at least 18 years of age and current college student or recent graduate.
  • Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads, up to 50 lbs.
  • Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior.
  • Submit proof of a negative TB Test.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills 
  • Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts.
  • Will be expected to wear the approved uniform and observe the same personal appearance standards required of all Zoo staff
  • Must be able to work a set schedule which will include flexible hours, evenings, holidays, and/or weekends
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.

 

INTERN REQUIREMENTS

  • Present and on time for all assigned shifts
  • Active engagement in all aspects of assigned duties
  • Attendance at all required training sessions and lectures
  • Attendance at all meetings with assigned Intern Coordinator, Volunteer Manager and other mentors
  • Completion of all assignments including two projects for each 12-week term
  • Maintain a written journal throughout internship term

 

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 captivity
  • 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

 

APPLICATION PROCESS – Interested candidates should complete the application. To supplement your application, it is recommended that you attach the following documents:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • At least two Letters of Recommendation
  • When submitting your application, upload Letters of Recommendation in the same place you upload your Cover Letter.
  • Additionally, we ask you to complete this anonymous survey.

Pay Range

$12.50 - $12.50 USD

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