Paid Animal Care Internship — Hands-On Zoo Experience

Chattanooga Zoo; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 17,000 - 21,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid internship

College credit

Hands-on experience

Learning opportunity

Job summary

Chattanooga Zoo in Chattanooga, TN, offers an Animal Care Internship that is paid and eligible for college credit. This hands-on, 15-week program runs 24 hours per week and provides foundational experience in daily husbandry, record keeping, enrichment, and guest interaction.

Interns rotate through focus areas (Giraffe Barn & Asia, Africa & Small Mammals, Reptiles & South American Amazonia, South America & Petting Zoo) and contribute to education spotlights while complying with zoo policies.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Currently enrolled in college or recently graduated (within 12 months).
• Completed at least 30 college credits with a 2.5 GPA or above.
• Available to work 24 hours per week (360 total hours).
• Available for 15 weeks from January 18 - April 30, 2027.
• Ability to read, speak and write English.
• Willing to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Background check, drug screen, and TB skin test required.
• Submit completed application on ApplicantPro with transcript, resume, cover letter, and a reference letter.

Responsibilities

• Perform outdoor daily husbandry routines.
• Assist with diet preparation and distribution.
• Distribute and evaluate enrichment; conduct behavioral observations.
• Observe operant conditioning sessions with multiple species.
• Participate in public education spotlights.
• Maintain accurate records.
• Comply with Chattanooga Zoo policies and procedures.

Skills

Animal care

Record keeping

Public education

English literacy

Education

College student status

Job description

Chattanooga Zoo in Chattanooga, TN, offers an Animal Care Internship that is paid and eligible for college credit. This hands-on, 15-week program runs 24 hours per week and provides foundational experience in daily husbandry, record keeping, enrichment, and guest interaction.

Interns rotate through focus areas (Giraffe Barn & Asia, Africa & Small Mammals, Reptiles & South American Amazonia, South America & Petting Zoo) and contribute to education spotlights while complying with zoo policies.