Birds Internship

The CALDWELL ZOO•Tyler, TX

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Caldwell Zoo offers a paid Bird Husbandry Internship in Tyler, Texas, for motivated college students seeking hands-on experience in animal husbandry and the zoological profession. Interns work alongside experienced animal care professionals and develop practical skills in the daily care, management, and well-being of a diverse collection of birds. The internship provides experience in avian husbandry, animal behavior, nutrition, habitat maintenance, and preventative health care. Animal assignments and learning opportunities depend on departmental needs and operational schedules. Interns also assist with daily husbandry tasks and departmental projects and may shadow up to five additional Zoo departments to learn about other areas of zoological operations. The internship runs January 13 through May 11, 2027. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., though daily hours may vary with veterinary procedures, animal care needs, and departmental activities. Interns should arrive at least three business days before the start date to complete onboarding. This is a paid internship, with gross pay of $580.62 biweekly before taxes and applicable deductions. Optional housing may be available; interns who elect housing will have a housing deduction applied to their pay.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be a college sophomore or have a higher classification.
Must have an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Must successfully pass a background check.
Must provide documentation of a negative TB test.
Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

Students pursuing degrees in zoology, animal science, biology, wildlife science, ornithology, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Learn safe methods of bird handling and restraint.
Develop knowledge of animal behavior, husbandry, and record keeping.
Learn about avian nutrition, including preparing and distributing diets.
Learn about preventative medicine and disease treatment.
Maintain habitats and monitor environmental conditions.
Clean and maintain aviaries, bird enclosures, and holding areas.
Monitor bird health, behavior, and overall condition.
Assist with enrichment activities and species-appropriate husbandry practices.
Participate in visitor relations and guest engagement.
Learn and adhere to emergency procedures and safety protocols.
Observe animal medical procedures when permitted.
Attend a Veterinary Department meeting.
Assist animal keepers with daily husbandry tasks and departmental projects.
Shadow up to five additional Zoo departments to gain exposure to other areas of zoological operations.