Chase Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservancy · Florida · posted yesterday
Animal Care Specialist Internship (Wildlife Sanctuary & Conservation) Animal Care Specialist Internship (Wildlife Sanctuary & Conservation) Location: Chase Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservancy, 6127 SE 122nd Blvd, Webster, FL 33597 (on-site; ability to commute required) Job Type: Internship / Training Program / Temporary Typical Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (may include weekends and holidays) Compensation: Unpaid internship. Interns receive either a weekly stipend or on-site housing (not both): • $75/week (40 hrs/week, 4 months) • $50/week (30 hrs/week, 6 months) • $25/week (20 hrs/week, 8 months) • On-site housing (40 hrs/week schedule only) may be chosen instead of the $75/week stipend About the Opportunity Chase Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservancy is offering a highly immersive Animal Care Specialist Internship designed for students and early-career professionals seeking real-world experience in wildlife care, sanctuary operations, and conservation education. This role is comparable to a traditional zookeeper internship, but within a nonprofit sanctuary environment, where animal welfare, ethical interactions, and conservation take priority. Interns are not observers—they become an active part of the animal care team while also serving as tour guides and educators, helping deliver meaningful, up-close experiences to guests. About Chase Sanctuary Chase Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to rescuing exotic animals and advancing conservation through education, habitat development, and species preservation. We currently care for 240+ animals across 70+ species, including a large population of critically endangered primates (Ruffed Lemurs and Cotton-top Tamarins) and a diverse collection of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Examples of species you may work with: • Primates: Ruffed lemurs, ring-tailed lemurs, cotton-top tamarins, marmosets and other New World monkeys • Mammals: Two-toed sloths, Asian small-clawed otters, giant anteaters & tamanduas, kangaroos, Patagonian cavies, deer & antelope • Reptiles & others: Galápagos, Aldabra and Sulcata tortoises, various reptiles and small mammals • Birds: Macaws, toucans, hornbills, ravens, and more Many of our animals are rescued from the exotic pet trade, and interns will learn how to care for animals with complex behavioral and medical histories. What Makes This Internship Different • Combines animal care + public education (tour guiding) • Work directly with 240+ animals, not limited observation roles • Focus on sanctuary ethics and welfare (not entertainment-based handling) • Exposure to real conservation work and species preservation efforts • Hands-on involvement in daily operations of a growing sanctuary Key Responsibilities Animal Care & Husbandry • Prepare diets and assist with feeding routines across multiple species • Clean and maintain enclosures, barns, aviaries, and habitats • Monitor animal health, behavior, and enrichment responses • Assist in enrichment programs (behavioral and environmental) • Support habitat improvements and daily operational needs Education & Tour Guiding (Major Component) • Lead or assist with guided tours and interactive animal experiences • Educate guests on conservation, species behavior, and animal backgrounds • Ensure all interactions follow strict safety and welfare guidelines • Communicate the sanctuary's mission and conservation efforts Interns are trained to deliver structured, high-quality experiences that prioritize animal choice and autonomy, guest safety, and educational storytelling. Sanctuary Operations • Assist with volunteer coordination and supervision • Support fundraising and outreach efforts • Maintain facility cleanliness and organization • Follow all safety, animal care, and emergency protocols Training & Learning Experience Interns receive structured, hands-on training in animal diets and nutrition systems, enclosure maintenance and safety procedures, behavior observation and enrichment techniques, tour guiding and public communication, and sanctuary operations and conservation practices. Training includes real operational systems such as AM/PM animal checks and counts, feeding protocols across species, and habitat inspections and safety systems. Designed to prepare interns for future roles in facilities licensed or regulated by the USDA, National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK). Work Environment This is a hands-on, physically demanding internship: outdoor work in Florida weather; cleaning, lifting, and active tasks throughout the day; fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Professional expectations include following strict safety protocols, maintaining a positive, respectful attitude, and adhering to dress code and animal safety standards. Qualifications • Pursuing or completed degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field • Strong interest in animal welfare and conservation • Comfortable with physical labor and outdoor work • Strong communication skills (guest-facing role) • Reliable, responsible, and team-oriented What You Will Gain • Hands-on experience with 70+ species and 240+ animals • Real-world sanctuary and wildlife care training • Public speaking and education experience • Mentorship from experienced animal care professionals • Letter of recommendation upon successful completion This internship prepares candidates for careers in zoos and accredited facilities, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation organizations, and animal care and behavior fields. Time Off Policy All time off must be requested and approved prior to the start of the internship. Unapproved absences may result in dismissal from the internship program. How to Apply Submit your resume through our application form: https://forms.gle/mqUtxib66xqSc3kDA
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