Internship Program Overview
Our Internship Program offers an exceptional opportunity for students passionate about biology, wildlife, and veterinary sciences to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic zoological setting. This unpaid program is designed for those seeking to immerse themselves in the practical aspects of animal care and nonprofit zoo management, working alongside our dedicated team of students in the Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Program, part-time volunteers, and core staff members.
We are proud to have a diverse and skilled team of over 20 individuals, encompassing students, interns, instructors, and volunteers, all dedicated to the welfare of our center. Our team plays a vital role in various activities, including animal care, conducting tours, managing inquiries, assisting with guest relations, and supporting fundraising initiatives that sustain our nonprofit mission.
👉 Key Takeaway: This internship provides balanced exposure to animal care, guest engagement, and nonprofit operations, preparing interns for real-world careers in wildlife and conservation.
Program Highlights
Interns are integral to our team, working closely with animal care professionals, students, and volunteers. While proximity to the animals requires strict adherence to safety protocols and the Keeper in Charge (KIC) ‘s instructions, interns should understand that the role extends far beyond animal care.
Intern responsibilities are diverse and may include:
- Maintaining and cleaning animal enclosures.
- Preparing animal diets (which may involve handling raw meats).
- Detailed record-keeping and providing species-specific enrichment.
- Engaging with visitors, answering questions, and assisting with tours.
- Supporting donor relations and fundraising activities (e.g., thank-you cards, event prep, or campaign support).
- Participating in various operational tasks as assigned by management.
This role demands physical stamina, as it involves lifting up to 50 pounds, standing for prolonged periods, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have completed high school. While college students pursuing studies in biology, zoology, or wildlife are encouraged to apply, enrollment in these courses is not mandatory.
Please note that Cat Tales does not provide college credit for the internship. Interns are responsible for arranging credit through their educational institutions.
The internship requires a commitment of 300 hours over 12 weeks, with a minimum of 24 hours weekly. Applicants unable to meet this commitment are encouraged to apply for volunteer positions instead.
Candidates must be in good health and able to provide recent medical documentation, including a physical examination. We recommend a current Tetanus vaccination and a negative TB test. Successful applicants will be dependable, punctual, courteous, positive, safety-conscious, self-motivated, team-oriented, and have reliable transportation. Interns are responsible for their own accommodation and health insurance.
Application Process
Interested candidates should complete the online application form and can address inquiries to info@cattales.org. Due to our prioritization of animal care, please allow for some delay in our response.
Following the application, we will conduct interviews (either virtually or in person), reference checks, and background screenings. Acceptance into the program is contingent upon providing proof of a physical exam, and if available, proof of a recent Tetanus vaccination and a negative TB test.
Internship start dates are:
- September 2026
- November 2026
- 2027 Start Dates TBD
I understand that the information on my internship application is subject to review and verification by Cat Tales Wildlife Center, and that my previous and present employers, organizations, and volunteer associations may be asked for information regarding my character and record with them. I hereby grant permission to Cat Tales Wildlife Center to contact these employers, organizations, and volunteer associations, and further, I hereby authorize my former and/or present employers, organizations, and volunteer associations to provide any information regarding my character and employment record with them.
I also grant permission to Cat Tales Wildlife Center to obtain information from and/or copy police and court records to conduct a pre-internship investigation of me. I hereby release from all liability and damages those individuals, companies, organizations, or agencies who provide information as stated above.
Should I become an Intern, I agree to comply with all rules and regulations of Cat Tales Wildlife Center. I understand that I am applying for a voluntary position to help Cat Tales Wildlife Center. I realize that there are many hazards at Cat Tales Wildlife Center, including animals, diseases, and other dangerous and unpredictable injuries. I am aware of my own health and physical limitations, which might not be obvious to my supervisor. I realize that it is my responsibility to decline any work that is beyond my capacity (physical or mental), so that my safety and health are maintained.
I agree to release and hold harmless Cat Tales Wildlife Center from any accident, injury, illness, or damage sustained as an Intern, while serving in such a capacity. I waive my rights to seek any form of damages and instruct my heirs and beneficiaries to honor this agreement. The parties to this Agreement do hereby mutually recognize that Cat Tales Wildlife Center does not provide Workman’s Compensation or any other type of liability insurance. Accordingly, persons such as Interns are not covered by Cat Tales Wildlife Center for such forms of insurance.
If placed in an Animal Care Department, the volunteer will be responsible for paying for a TB test at a doctor or facility of his/her choice. For the welfare of employees and animals, Cat Tales Wildlife Center recommends that all volunteers working in Animal Care departments receive a TB test and have it read as negative in order to volunteer at Cat Tales Wildlife Center in this capacity. If proof of a negative TB test is available and current within the last 12 months, please submit it with the application. The intern must be current on their Tetanus vaccination; proof must be provided upon acceptance into the Cat Tales Wildlife Center Internship Program in the Animal Care Department. All vaccinations are at the intern’s expense.
I certify that the information provided in this internship application is true and complete. Furthermore, I certify that I have read and understand the above.