About the role#
The Animal Care Internship at the Central Park Zoo provides hands-on training in animal husbandry for students pursuing careers in biology, zoology, veterinary medicine, or conservation. This program runs for 12 weeks during the Spring 2027 term. Interns are assigned to work in the Tisch Children’s Zoo, Tropics, or Polar areas. You will participate in professional lectures and training sessions while gaining exposure to daily zoo operations.
What you'll do#
- Learn and perform husbandry tasks, including diet preparation, species identification, and studying the natural history of collection animals.
- Maintain and evaluate animal habitats to support health and welfare.
- Observe animal behavior, collect data, and keep records for management and welfare assessments.
- Perform exhibit and enclosure maintenance.
- Provide enrichment for the animals.
- Observe and handle animals, with handling tasks based on your experience level.
- Engage with zoo visitors to interpret animal care, conservation messaging, and zoo operations.
- Occasionally observe veterinary rounds, depending on availability.
What you'll need#
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Current enrollment in a college or graduate degree-granting program.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
- Ability to work in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, heat, and cold.
- A mature and reliable approach to working within a team.
- Eligibility to work in the United States.
- Previous animal experience is preferred but not required.
- You must provide your own housing and transportation.
- Submission of both a resume and a cover letter is required for consideration.
Location & details#
- Location: Central Park Zoo, New York City, New York.
- Term: Spring 2027 (February through early May).
- Schedule: 16-24 hours per week.
- Compensation: A total stipend of $800-$1200, paid as a lump sum upon completion of the position.
About Wildlife Conservation Society
The Wildlife Conservation Society works to protect wildlife and natural habitats across more than 50 countries. Founded in 1895, the organization maintains a presence in New York City and various international locations. It manages zoos and an aquarium while conducting scientific research to inform conservation policy. The group employs between 1,001 and 5,000 people to support its global operations.
How to get in at Wildlife Conservation Society
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