Animal Care Intern - Fall 2026

Location: Central Park Zoo, Department: Animal

Duration & Schedule: Fall 2026 (September–early December), approximately 8–12 weeks; 16–24 hours per week

Stipend: $540–$1,200 (depending on duration and schedule), paid as one lump sum upon completion of the position, less applicable taxes.

About the role

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. Interns will be assigned to a specific area: the Tisch Children’s Zoo, Tropics, or Polar areas. Interns will also be invited to join professional lectures and training sessions and have the opportunity to learn about other career opportunities at the zoo.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of daily animal husbandry practices, including diet preparation, species identification, and the natural history of collection animals
• Gain hands-on experience maintaining and evaluating animal habitats to support optimal health and welfare
• Build skills in behavioral observation, data collection, and record-keeping, contributing to ongoing animal management and welfare assessments
• Strengthen communication skills by engaging with zoo visitors and effectively interpreting animal care, conservation messaging, and zoo operations for the public
• Acquire exposure to veterinary care through occasional observation of veterinary rounds (availability dependent), enhancing understanding of animal health management

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 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks (e.g., moving hoses, lifting large bags, bales of hay)
• Be able to operate 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

Pay

$540–$1,200 (paid as one lump sum upon completion of the position)