Internship Opportunities

To be considered for an internship, you must submit all required materials electronically in the official application link provided below: 

• Internship Application  
• Letter of Intent  
• Current Resume - one page max 
• College Transcript - unofficial copies accepted 
• Two Letters of Recommendation 
• One from a faculty member or professional mentor 
• One additional recommendation of your choice 
• Contact Information for Two Personal References 

Important Note: Students are responsible for arranging school credit if required by their institution. 

Our internship program goes beyond daily tasks, it’s a stepping stone for your career! 

• Skill Development - Hands-on training in animal care, education program delivery, research, graphic design, and more 
• Networking Opportunities - Connect with zoo professionals, industry leaders, and fellow interns 
• Stipends & Housing – Potential for stipends for select internships; on-site housing offered at a reduced fee (limited availability) 
• Zoo Perks - Free guest passes, discounts on retail and food venues 

• Reliable transportation is required 
• Availability to work a flexible schedule that includes weekdays, weekends, and/or holidays 
• Interns adhere to the Dress Code & Appearance Policy 
• Reasonable accommodations will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable laws and policies 
• Interns are responsible for all expenses associated with the internship, including housing, transportation, food, and uniforms 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025.  

About the Internship 

The Animal Section at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking Zookeeper Interns to join our team. This internship provides an opportunity for hands-on experience in zoo animal care, welfare, and management, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. Interns will work alongside keeper staff, learning fundamental husbandry techniques in an AZA-accredited facility while gaining insights into zoo operations and conservation initiatives. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Learn and perform various aspects of animal husbandry, which could include diet preparation, enrichment, operant conditioning, veterinary procedures, and record-keeping 
• Conduct animal behavior observations and assist with conservation initiatives 
• Participate in keeper presentations, tours, and educational messaging 
• Engage in professional development opportunities related to zoo operations and career planning 
• Additional responsibilities as needed  

Qualifications & Skills 

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within one year) from a relevant program (e.g., biology, zoology, psychology) preferred but not required 
• Effective communication, teamwork, and observational skills 
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs., bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods 
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions 
• Ability to read and follow instructions and communicate clearly 

Potential Assignments 

Intern placements will be determined based on candidate interest, availability, and best fit for each work area. Potential assignments include: 

• Ambassadors – Tractable species with a focus on programming and messaging techniques 
• Avian Propagation – Care of various bird species, including breeding and habitat management 
• Swamp or Streamside – North American reptiles and amphibians, plus select birds and mammals 
• Rocky Coast – Polar bears, puffins, Arctic foxes, and porcupines 
• African Hoofstock – Includes zebra, ostrich, giraffe, or Watani grasslands species 
• Elephants – Herd of African elephants 
• Northwoods – North American mammals such as wolves, bears, elk, and bison 
• Desert Dome – Diverse collection of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds 
• Primates and Carnivores – Great apes, monkeys, or large felids 
• Life Support/Aquatics – Work across multiple aquatic and terrestrial areas of the park

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship 

The Conservation, Education, and Science (CES) Department at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking an Early Childhood Intern to join our team. This internship provides an opportunity for hands-on experience in early childhood education and nature play, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. Interns will work closely with the Kidzone Team, which includes educators, volunteers, and animal ambassadors, to create an engaging and educational environment for young guests. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Set the stage for play by completing daily tasks such as setting out loose parts, conducting safety checks, and ensuring the exhibit is clean and engaging 
• Interact with young guests in a playful and respectful manner, encouraging exploration and creative play 
• Lead educational activities such as crafts, gardening, pond dipping, and nature-based games 
• Present live animal encounters using ambassador animals like snakes, turtles, lizards, and insects 
• Assist in special events, birthday parties, hiking and camping programs, and other educational experiences 
• Additional Responsibilities as Needed 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Currently enrolled in or a graduate of a relevant field (e.g., Education, Child Development, Environmental Science, Biology, Parks & Recreation, Museum Studies) 
• Effective communication, decision-making, and organizational skills with the ability to work in a team setting and independently 
• Ability to stand and navigate a variety of terrain for long periods, lift/carry up to 25 pounds, and work outdoors in varied weather conditions 
• Willingness to train and handle ambassador animals, including reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates 
• Comfortable leading public presentations and engaging audiences of all ages

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship 

The Horticulture Division at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Zoo Horticulture Intern to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in grounds maintenance and plant care within a zoological setting, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. The Horticulture Division works to create immersive, naturalistic habitats that support animal welfare, educate guests, and promote conservation. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Receive and place plants in appropriate holding areas using proper potting, labeling, and transport techniques 
• Prepare sites by removing rocks, tilling soil, and adding soil amendments using hand tools 
• Install and water plants, utilizing proper cultivation practices 
• Remove damaged, diseased, or unsafe plant material to maintain a healthy plant collection 
• Assist with pruning to ensure guest safety, routine plant maintenance, and overall collection health 
• Identify and control invasive or toxic weeds using appropriate methods while ensuring guest and animal safety 
• Monitor and protect plant collections from guest interference or damage 
• Provide information to guests about horticulture and conservation efforts 
• Build constructive working relationships through cooperation, respect, and teamwork 
• Additional responsibilities as needed 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within one year) from a relevant program (e.g., horticulture, botany, environmental science, landscaping) 
• Basic knowledge of grounds maintenance and plant care 
• Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and perform basic calculations 
• Comfortable working in extreme weather conditions (heat, rain, cold) and standing/walking for extended periods 
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs., bend, stoop, and work on variable terrain 
• Manual dexterity to safely handle tools and equipment 
• Comfortable using hand-held radios, phones, and computers for communication and task management 

Additional Information 

• Must be available Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 
• Due to the safety-sensitive nature of this role, supervisors may enforce additional standards, such as specific footwear or protective gear 

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship 

The Education Division at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Library Programs Education Intern to assist with our summer library programs. Each year, the zoo participates in the national Collaborative Summer Library Program, developing an engaging, conservation-focused educational program that aligns with the summer theme. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in environmental education while working closely with animal ambassadors. The intern will accompany a zoo educator to library programs, lead portions of the presentation, and assist in ensuring the safety of animal ambassadors during travel and programs. By joining this initiative, the intern will help promote the zoo’s mission and conservation messaging while supporting free educational programming for local libraries. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist with preparation for library programs 
• Support Zoo Educator in ensuring safety concerns are met before, during, and after educational program 
• Learn programming skills consistent with our education department expectations 
• Become familiar with ambassador animals with the ability to recognize changes in their typical behavior 
• Learn messaging techniques to effectively convey conservation stories 
• Present at least 10 minutes of educational programming alongside a Zoo Educator 
• Create short approximately 10-minute-long program to present individually 
• Additional responsibilities as needed 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Some experience with childcare/education, or intent to work in childcare/education but not required 
• Basic knowledge of animal wellbeing 
• Comfortable being in close proximity with mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates 
• Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to read and follow basic scientific language 
• Comfortable engaging children and larger groups (ex. 200 or fewer) 

Additional Information 

• Must be available primarily Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 
• Start date is May 26, 2025 

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship

The Marketing Department at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Marketing Intern who is focused in diversity and community to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in outreach and marketing, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. The intern will support efforts to promote the Zoo as an inclusive destination for all guests while fostering connections between communities, wildlife, and wild places.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop an understanding of the Zoo’s mission, educational programs, and guest experiences. Identify opportunities to expand engagement with underrepresented communities.
• Conduct research on local and regional communities (within a 60-90-minute drive) to identify effective marketing and outreach strategies for underrepresented communities.
• Collaborate with Zoo photographers and designers to ensure diverse representation in branding and marketing materials, including coordinating for photo sessions outreach materials.
• Assist with marketing campaigns, including content development, social media strategy, and video production in partnership with media vendors.
• Gather insights on guest interests, preferred messaging, and key factors that influence attendance from target communities currently underrepresented at the Zoo. Work with the Marketing and Graphics teams to develop strategic ad placements.
• Coordinate with external partners such as the Heart of North Carolina, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the Zoo Society, Visit NC, and others to expand the Zoo’s reach within diverse communities.
• Analyze marketing data, test content with Zoo guests for feedback, and assess the effectiveness of various outreach initiatives.

Qualifications & Skills

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business, or a related field.
• Interest in community engagement, diversity and inclusion efforts, and audience development.
• Familiarity with digital marketing, social media strategy, and content creation.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for creating marketing content and outreach materials.
• Some experience with graphic design, photography, or video editing
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with various teams.
• Detail-oriented with effective organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and social media platforms (knowledge of tools like Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or video editing software is a plus).
• Enthusiasm for the Zoo’s mission and a passion for connecting diverse communities with nature and wildlife.

Additional Details

• This internship offers flexibility, with opportunities for remote work.
• Students from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and those from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are especially welcome.
• This role is ideal for students interested in marketing, communications, or community engagement who want to gain hands-on experience in a mission-driven organization.
• A stipend of $6000 for summer season.

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship 

The Volunteer Services Department at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Volunteer Services Intern to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in volunteer coordination, program management, and event planning, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. Interns will develop professional skills in recruitment, engagement, training, and administration of volunteers and interns in a dynamic zoo environment. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist with the onboarding process for volunteers and interns, including application reviews and background checks 
• Support the planning and facilitation of volunteer training sessions, orientations, and engagement activities 
• Help manage volunteer and intern records in the Volgistics database, ensuring accurate documentation of hours and assignments 
• Participate in special event planning and on-site coordination, assisting with volunteer assignments and logistics 
• Additional responsibilities as needed 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Currently enrolled in or a recent graduate of a program in human resources, hospitality, event planning, education, business management, or a related field 
• Effective interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills 
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and a willingness to learn new software 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment 
• Comfortable engaging with diverse groups, including volunteers, interns, staff, and guests 
• Passion for community engagement and service 

Additional Information 

• May require occasional evening work for special events 
• Internship may involve light lifting and spending time outdoors 
• Interns will receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and an evaluation at the end of the program 
• A stipend of $2000 for summer season.

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship 

The Research Department at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Research Intern to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in zoo-based research along with professional mentorship. Interns will work with PhD-level curatorial staff to learn about research in zoos, gain experience collecting behavioral data, and develop skills in data management, analysis, and professional dissemination of scientific findings. Results from these projects are used by zookeepers and curators to inform management decisions and enhance animal welfare. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Research project conception and design 
• Behavioral data collection 
• Manage and analyze research data 
• Participate in meetings and discussions on research findings 
• Create a final written report on major findings to inform animal care programs 
• Present major findings to zoo staff at term’s end via a power point presentation 
• Additional responsibilities as needed 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Upper-level undergraduates (rising juniors or seniors) or graduate students with an interest in animal behavior research 
• Minimum GPA of 3.25 preferred 
• Completed relevant coursework (e.g., statistics, animal behavior) and/or applied research experience 
• Effective analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines 
• Experience with data collection, management, and analysis preferred 

Schedule & Additional Information 

• This internship requires a hybrid schedule with a minimum of 24 hours per week. Interns will spend at least two 8-hour days per week on-site at the Zoo collecting behavioral data and at least 8 hours per week remotely for data analysis, report writing, and meetings. 
• A stipend may be available to help offset costs 

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship 

The Valerie H. Schindler Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Wildlife Rehabilitation Intern to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in caring for sick, injured, or orphaned native wildlife with the goal of returning them to the wild in optimal condition, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. The center is a teaching facility that emphasizes rehabilitation, research, and education, fostering compassion, civic responsibility, and environmental stewardship. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist with the daily care of wildlife patients and resident animals 
• Prepare diets and clean enclosures 
• Admit wildlife patients and maintain detailed records 
• Feed animals and provide supportive care 
• Assist with medical tasks under veterinary supervision, including treatments, radiographs, and surgeries 
• Participate in special projects, training, tours, animal rescues, and cage building/maintenance 
• Provide supervision and guidance to volunteers and unpaid interns 
• Act as a liaison to veterinary staff 
• Additional responsibilities as needed 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within one year) from a relevant field of study (e.g., wildlife rehabilitation, pre-vet, veterinary technician, zoo and aquarium sciences, animal science) 
• Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs., bend, stoop, stand for at least 30 minutes, and walk on variable terrain 
• Capable of working in all climatic conditions 
• Ability to read and follow instructions, communicate clearly, and perform basic calculations 
• Rabies vaccination required for handling adult self-feeding and education mammals (unvaccinated interns may assist with hand-rearing orphaned mammals, caring for birds and reptiles, and performing all other duties) 
• This position may not be suitable for individuals who are immune-suppressed and/or pregnant 

Schedule and Additional Information 

• 10 Week Unpaid Internships: 
• This internship is a minimum of 10 weeks, 200 hours, 3 6-hour shifts per week, plus 2-hour trainings every Wednesday 
• Must be available to work a set schedule alternating between opening and closing shifts, weekends including holidays 
• 12 Week Unpaid Internships: 
• This internship is a minimum of 12 weeks, 360 hours, five 6-hour shifts per week plus 2-hour trainings every Wednesday 
• Must be available to work a set schedule alternating between opening and closing shifts, weekends including holidays 

This internship is part of the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council’s Practicum Accreditation Program, and interns will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the program. Preference will be given to candidates pursuing a career in animal care, such as wildlife rehabilitation, veterinary medicine, or zoo and aquarium sciences. 

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025. 

About the Internship 

The Valerie H. Schindler Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at the North Carolina Zoo is seeking a Wildlife Rehabilitation Junior Intern to join our team. This internship provides hands-on experience in caring for sick, injured, or orphaned native wildlife with the goal of returning them to the wild in optimal condition, offering exposure to real-world projects and professional mentorship. The center is a teaching facility that emphasizes rehabilitation, research, and education, fostering compassion, civic responsibility, and environmental stewardship. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist with the daily care of wildlife patients and resident animals 
• Prepare diets and clean enclosures 
• Admit wildlife patients and maintain detailed records 
• Feed animals and provide supportive care 
• Assist with medical tasks under veterinary supervision, including treatments, radiographs, and surgeries 
• Participate in special projects, training, tours, animal rescues, and cage building/maintenance 
• Provide supervision and guidance to volunteers and unpaid interns 
• Act as a liaison to veterinary staff 
• Additional responsibilities as needed 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Currently enrolled in high school and between the ages of 16-18 years old, a rising sophomore, junior, senior, or a recently graduated student 
• Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs., bend, stoop, stand for at least 30 minutes, and walk on variable terrain 
• Capable of working in all climatic conditions 
• Ability to read and follow instructions, communicate clearly, and perform basic calculations 
• Rabies vaccination required for handling adult self-feeding and education mammals (unvaccinated interns may assist with hand-rearing orphaned mammals, caring for birds and reptiles, and performing all other duties) 
• This position may not be suitable for individuals who are immune-suppressed and/or pregnant 

Schedule and Additional Information 

• 6 Week Unpaid Internships: 
• This internship is a minimum of 6 weeks, 80 hours, two 6-hour shifts per week plus 2-hour trainings every week 
• Must be available to work a set schedule alternating between opening and closing shifts, weekends and holidays included 

Ready to Apply? 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of an exciting, hands-on internship at the North Carolina Zoo! Gain experience, make connections, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the Zoo and conservation field. 

APPLY NOW  

The deadline for all 2025 summer internships is March 14, 2025.