Spring 2027 paid internships are available at Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas in the areas of Animal Husbandry within the Reptile Department.

Caldwell Zoo offers paid internships for motivated college students seeking hands-on experience in animal husbandry and the zoological profession. The Reptile Husbandry Internship provides students with the opportunity to work alongside experienced animal care professionals while developing practical skills in the daily care, management, and well-being of a diverse collection of reptiles.

Interns will gain experience in reptile husbandry, animal behavior, nutrition, habitat maintenance, and preventative health care while learning about the responsibilities of working in a zoological setting. This internship is designed to help prepare students for future careers in zoos, wildlife facilities, and related fields.

Animal Collection

Interns will have opportunities to learn about the care and management of a variety of reptile species housed at Caldwell Zoo. Animal assignments and learning opportunities will depend on departmental needs and operational schedules.

Internship Learning Opportunities & Duties

• Safe methods of exotic animal handling and restraint
• Animal behavior, husbandry, and record keeping
• Animal nutrition, including the preparation and distribution of animal diets
• Preventative medicine and disease treatment
• Habitat maintenance and environmental monitoring, including temperature and humidity requirements
• Water quality testing and water changes, where applicable
• Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures
• Visitor relations and guest engagement
• Knowledge of and adherence to all emergency procedures and safety protocols
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• 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

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must be a sophomore in college or have a higher classification
• Overall GPA must be 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

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

Duration

January 13th – May 11th

Please plan to arrive at least three business days before the start date to complete the required onboarding process.

Any time off requested during the internship, excluding illness or emergencies, must be discussed during the interview and approved before the internship begins.

Work Schedule 

The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. However, daily hours may vary depending on veterinary procedures, animal care needs, and departmental activities.

Compensation & Housing

This is a paid internship.

• Gross Pay: $580.62 biweekly, before taxes and applicable deductions.
• Housing: Optional housing may be provided for interns who need accommodations during the internship. A housing deduction will be applied to the intern’s pay if housing is elected.

Additional details regarding housing availability and the applicable deduction will be provided during the interview process.

To Be Considered

Please apply and upload the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Unofficial college transcripts

Application Deadline: November 15, 2026