The Opportunity
Are you passionate about working with animals and exploring a career in zookeeping? The Lincoln Children’s Zoo is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic individuals for our Zookeeping Internship Program!
As a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and one of the fastest-growing zoos in the country, Lincoln Children’s Zoo offers a unique opportunity for interns to gain real-world experience in professional animal care. Over 24 weeks, interns follow a structured, step-by-step training program designed to build essential zookeeping skills — from daily husbandry and enrichment to behavioral observation, public engagement, and conservation education. You’ll work side-by-side with our experienced animal care team, becoming an active member of the zookeeping staff.
Lincoln Children’s Zoo • Animal Care
About the Zoo
Founded in 1965, the Lincoln Children’s Zoo has been an important part of the Lincoln community for over 50 situated next to the spider monkeys, and a play stream. In 2021, Lincoln Children’s Zoo expanded even further to add new residents: cheetahs and giant anteaters. This expansion included the addition of a 25-foot-tall play structure and experiences, the Zoo is committed to animal conservation efforts and saving animals from extinction. Home to over 30 species categorized as vulnerable or near-extinction, the Zoo is devoted to preserving and protecting animals for future
411,496
ZOO GUESTS
400 7
ANIMALS
6 TH
FASTEST GROWING ZOO IN THE U.S.
CORE VALUES
We are there for each other.
ANIMAL BIRTHS
10,620
MEMBER HOUSEHOLDS
37
SPECIES SURVIVAL PLANS
OUR MISSION:
To enrich lives through firsthand interaction with living things.
We generate enthusiasm. We are humble. We go above and beyond.
Lincoln Children’s Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
THINGS TO DO IN LINCOLN
ATHLETICS
Experience athletic events at the college and professional level with the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Lincoln Saltdogs, and Lincoln Stars.
MILES
OF WALKING & BIKING TRAILS
WITHIN
STATE RECREATION AREAS
MORE PARKLAND PER CAPITA THAN AUSTIN, PORTLAND AND MANY OTHER US CITIES!
MUSEUMS
Sheldon Museums of Art • Morrill Hall
• Nebraska History Museum • Great Plains Art Museum • & More!
MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS VENUES
Multiple music and theater venues featuring local performers and national touring groups, including Broadway tours!
Internship Details
• Duration: 12 weeks
• Schedule: 40 hours/week required for housing (minimum of 32 hours per week required for internship)
• Housing: Convenient, fully furnished intern housing available
• Compensation: Unpaid, educational internship
• Location: Lincoln Children’s Zoo – Lincoln, Nebraska
What You’ll Learn
Throughout the internship, you will gain hands-on experience and professional mentorship in:
• Daily animal husbandry, diet prep, and exhibit maintenance
• Enrichment design and behavioral observation
• Animal training principles and welfare monitoring
• Commissary operations, safety, and biosecurity protocols
• Record keeping and teamwork within a professional zoo setting
• Public interpretation and guest engagement opportunities
• Exposure to veterinary procedures, research, and conservation programs (as available)
• Job preparation and application planning Interns also complete a personal development project, receive regular mentor check-ins, and finish the program with a professional presentation showcasing their learning and achievements.
Essential Qualities and Requirements
• Working towards a career in animal care, biology or related field
• Able to commit to at least 32 hours per week
• Capable of working both independently and within a team environment
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather
• Able to stand for extended periods of time and lift 25lbs
LCZ Intern Purpose Statement
To provide support for other Zoo departments in a way that allows them to fulfill the overall Zoo mission and to provide positive opportunities for citizens to be involved in the community.
Definition of an Intern
An intern is an advanced student or graduate gaining supervised practical experience at the Zoo. An intern must be officially accepted and enrolled by the Zoo prior to performance of any tasks. Unless specifically stated, interns are not considered as ‘associates’ of the Zoo.
Lincoln Children’s Zoo does not discriminate against an otherwise qualified intern based on race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability (physical or mental), veteran status, pregnancy, marital status, medical condition, sexual orientation, or any status protected by Federal and State law and regulations.
Interns are viewed as a valuable resource to the Zoo and will be given meaningful assignments, treated with respect, effectively supervised, and recognized for volunteer services provided. In return, interns should actively perform their duties to the best of their abilities and remain devoted to the goals, operations, and mission of the Zoo.
To Apply
To apply for our Animal Internship, please send a resume and cover letter to:
Courtney Thorson
Director of Human Resources cthorson@lincolnzoo.org
