About this role
Job Description
Animal Care Intern - Spring 2027
Location: Central Park Zoo
Department: Animal
Duration: Spring 2027- February- early May; 12 weeks
Schedule: Approx 12 weeks; 16-24 hours per week
Stipend: $800-$1200 (depending on duration and schedule) total stipend to be paid as one lump sum upon the completion of the position, less applicable taxes.
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis but must be received by December 15th, 2026; the position may be filled before the deadline. Candidates are encouraged to apply early.
The Animal Care Internship at the Central Park Zoo (CPZ) offers an immersive, hands-on learning experience designed for individuals pursuing careers in zoology, biology, veterinary medicine, or conservation. The goal of this internship is to provide hands-on education and training in animal husbandry. CPZ interns will learn many aspects of animal care including exhibit and enclosure maintenance, diet preparation, animal observation, animal handling (based on experience), and enrichment. CPZ interns will be assigned to a specific area: the Tisch Children’s Zoo, Tropics and Polar areas. Interns will also be invited to join in professional lectures and training sessions and also have the opportunity to learn about other career opportunities at the zoo.
Learning Outcomes
- Interns will develop a comprehensive understanding of daily animal husbandry practices, including diet preparation, species identification, and the natural history of collection animals
- Interns will gain hands-on experience maintaining and evaluating animal habitats to support optimal health and welfare
- Interns will build skills in behavioral observation, data collection, and record-keeping, contributing to ongoing animal management and welfare assessments
- Interns will learn and strengthen communication skills by engaging with zoo visitors and effectively interpreting animal care, conservation messaging, and zoo operations for the public
- Interns will acquire exposure to veterinary care through occasional observation of veterinary rounds (availability dependent), enhancing understanding of animal health management
Qualification Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Current college or graduate student enrolled in a degree granting program
- Previous animal experience is preferred but not required.
- Be able to lift 50lbs and perform physically demanding tasks (for example: moving hoses, lifting large bags, bales of hay etc.)
- Be able to work in all weather conditions (rain, snow, heat, cold, etc.)
- Applicants must be mature, reliable and able to work well in a busy and fast-paced team environment.
- Provide own housing and transportation
- Must be eligible to work in the United States
Important Information about the Application
To be fully considered for this role, applicants must upload both a resume AND cover letter