Behavioral Research Internship - Spring 2026

Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo•Tampa, FL

66d

About The Position

The Behavioral Research Team Internship at ZooTampa offers hands-on experience in animal husbandry, 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! The Behavioral Research Internship is designed to introduce interns to applied research techniques in the field of informal education, animal behavior, and its evaluation. Interns will learn and implement a variety of research methods to collect data and analyze results to evaluate educational programming and its goal to invite, inform, and inspire the guests of ZooTampa to promote conservation. Interns will also learn how to collect animal behavior data and assist in the implementation of animal behavior studies.

Requirements

Possess strong interpersonal communication skills.
Possess a sincere desire to work on projects related to both guests and animals.
Ability to effectively work independently, and within a team environment.
Must be able to multi-task.
Must have the ability to follow specific instructions and also be comfortable self-directing.
Must be able to commit to an approximately 14 week internship (February - May)
Must be able to commit to a schedule that is between 16 and 24 hours each week, including at least one weekend day. Workdays are typically 4-8 hours.
Must be available to attend Intern Orientation on February 18, 2025.
All offers are contingent on the successful completion of a criminal background screening and execution of a required hold harmless/liability release agreement.
Candidate will be responsible for the cost of the background check (typically $25, but certain jurisdictions may have additional fees)
Interns must have personal health insurance coverage for illness or injury (as volunteers and interns are not covered by the Zoo workers' compensation program).
Candidates seeking academic credit must have arrangements agreed upon between the Zoo and their school before beginning the internship.
Applicants must be 18 years or older.
Applicants must submit an Internship Application in order to be considered.
Only applicants who are legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship will be considered.