Animal Care Internship Asia-Australia - Summer

Animal Care Internship Asia-Australia - Summer 2026

Internship Period:
May 19, 2026-August 21, 2026

Final date to receive applications: SPOTS ARE LIMITED-Apply today to join our Summer 2026 Asia-Australia Internship and launch your future in wildlife care.

Step into the Wild Side of Conservation.

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity working alongside animal species native to Asia and Australia? The Asia-Australia Team Internship at Zoo Tampa offers hands-on experience in animal care, behavioral training, and real-time conservation education. You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with professional animal care staff, gaining behind-the-scenes insight while building skills that pave the way for a career in zoology or wildlife management. From collecting behavioral data to creating enrichment and engaging with guests, every day is a chance to grow personally and professionally in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

If you're passionate, hardworking, and eager to learn, we want to hear from you!

Asia - Australia Internship

Please note:

If you are seeking an Animal Care internship, do NOT apply for more than two internships per term; applying to more than two may result in disqualification.

Description:

While working in the Asia-Australia Department, interns will learn all aspects of animal care and husbandry for Zoo Tampa's most diverse mammal area including carnivores, hoofstock, mega-vertebrate and macropods. There is an online course to supplement and expand upon the in-person experiences gained during this internship.

Internship functions include, but are not limited to:

* Conducts all activities in alignment with AZA standards and guidelines, all relevant laws and regulations, safety standards and standards that ensure animal welfare.

* General husbandry and assisting in the care of assigned animals, including preparation and distribution of approved animal diets.

* Ability to learn the various approved browse plants that are offered the animal collection.

* Close observation of animal behaviors with a particular focus on eating, walking and defecating to monitor health of animals. Notification of Asian area animal care staff of any concerns.

* Perform daily routine according to area's standard operating procedures (SOP).

* Perform educational and animal conservation related public presentations as requested.

* Maintain detailed daily records on assigned animals and/or projects.

* Knowledge of Zoo layout and general animal collection to assist guests on a daily basis with exhibit location as needed.

* Adherence to area's standard operating procedures (SOP).

* Knowledge of safety SOP, safety concerns and reporting protocols.

* Inspect, clean and maintain both exhibit and off-exhibit areas.

* Following approved species-specific enrichment protocols.

* Report animal illness, maintenance, safety, horticulture or other needs to Asian animal care staff.

* Knowledge and understanding of the emergency situations (e.g., Code I, II, III) within the Zoo.

* Observe safety policies and procedures in regard to the use of Zoo equipment, materials and chemicals.

Qualifications:

* High school diploma or GED required.

* Applicants currently pursuing a degree in any of the biological or life sciences are preferred.

* Potential academic credit may be available subject to program eligibility requirements.

* Possess a sincere desire to work with both animals and guests.

* Excellent communication and customer relations skills.

* Ability to effectively work independently and within a team.

* Must be able to multi-task.

* Must have the ability to follow specific instructions and also be comfortable self-directing.

* Ability to communicate ideas and contribute effectively.

* Must be at least 18 years of age.

Required Availability:

* Must be able to commit to a 14-week internship.

* Must be able to commit to a minimum of 30 hours per week, with 40 hours per week preferred.

* The schedule is 3 or 4, ten-hour days (7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) with one weekend day of availability required.

Physical Abilities:

* Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical to west central Florida (i.e., heat, rain or cold).

* Must have physical endurance for long,…