The goal of the Zoo’s intern program is for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in experiences at the Zoo that will enhance their educational and professional experiences towards a Zoo-related career. Interns will assist in forwarding the mission of the Zoo in the community. While the Zoo’s staff does appreciate all that the interns contribute to the Zoo, the purpose of the program is for the interns’ personal enhancement. If you have any further questions or would like to arrange for an interview, contact the Volunteer Department at 203-330-6046 or at [email protected].

If you are interested in learning more about our Adult Volunteer Program and other volunteer opportunities, please contact Tracy Benham, Volunteer Coordinator at 203-330-6046 or [email protected] for more information. 

Thank you for your interest in the Zoo’s intern program. The following is some general information about the program:​

• Internships are available in the Animal Care, Education, Conservation & Horticultural Departments.
  • Animal Care: Interns assist in all aspects of basic care: cleaning, feeding, enrichment, observation of the Zoo’s animal collection.
  • Education: Interns assist with curriculum design, public events, education programs, guest interaction, administrative tasks, and presentation of ambassador animals.  
  • Horticultural: Interns assist staff in the Greenhouse, gardens and habitat areas as well as engage in horticulturally based research projects.
  • Conservation: Interns assist with the zoo’s local conservation efforts and research projects under the auspice of the Education Department.

Requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years old, an enrolled college student or graduate student, full-time or part-time, at an accredited institution.
• Applicants must be able to stand for extended periods of time, sit, kneel, bend, walk, twist, reach above head, stoop, crawl, pull, climb stairs/ladders, run, lift 50 pounds and work outdoors in adverse weather conditions.

Additional Information:

• Applicants accepted into the program will be given an orientation by the Volunteer Coordinator and further training by staff members.
• Internships are unpaid; however, you may work out credit options with your college.
• The Zoo does not provide housing.
• Internships are also available in Administration, Marketing & Special Events. Contact Volunteer Office for more information.

How to Apply:

SUMMER INTERNS

Our Summer 2026 Intern Program is now open! 

The 2026 summer application period is now open. Click here to download and fill out the application. 
Applications must be completed and mailed to the Zoo, post marked no later than February 9th. (Applications must include resume, two letters of reference, one-page essay, and unofficial transcript.) 
Please contact Tracy Benham, Volunteer Coordinator at 203-330-6046 or [email protected] with any questions. 

fall/SPRING intERNS

For the Fall and Spring semester programs, you are required to give one full day a week for a semester. Please contact the volunteer department to arrange for an interview. (For the interview, you will be asked to bring two letters of reference, your resume, a one-page essay, and an unofficial transcript. You will fill out the application at the interview.)
​Contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Tracy Benham,  at least two months before the semester to begin application process.