Reptiles & Aquarium Zookeeper Intern

Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support, Combined Court Operations, Sheriff's Department, Community Reintegration Center, Human Services, Parks, Public Safety, Public Works, Fleet Operations, Transportation, and at the Zoo. Our departments are also dedicated to our Seniors and those with Disabilities in Aging and Disability Services, and Veterans in Veterans Services. Our employees also remain committed to serving the cultural, human, recreational, and social needs of the entire community.

Milwaukee County offers a wide variety of interesting jobs for people who want to make a difference in our community. Milwaukee County provides a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If disability related accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936. For submitted application inquiries please contact careers@milwaukeecountywi.gov. Please note: an online application must be submitted for consideration.

We are searching for Changemakers to come and join our team and discover our diverse and versatile community of independent spirits and unique talents, we are redefining the way you think about Milwaukee County!

Reptiles & Aquarium Zookeeper Intern

Milwaukee County Zoo

Hourly Pay: $14.02

Closing Date: 1/22/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications

Job Summary: The Reptiles & Aquarium Zookeeper Intern will work alongside Zookeepers to gain first-hand knowledge and experience in the daily husbandry of the assigned zoo animal population in accordance with the Association of Zoo's & Aquariums (AZA) advanced standards for professional animal care. This includes animal habitat maintenance, diet preparation, animal observations and ethograms, an introduction to enrichment and training, and guest experience through formal and informal presentations and talks. This position introduces interns to the complex process of evaluating and interpreting the welfare and well-being of the animals they will be providing care for.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Assist in daily care to maintain and enhance the welfare of the zoo animal population under zookeeper supervision. Prepare and present approved diets. Observe and report animal activities, behavior, and physical condition with consideration of patterns and natural history. Ensure the tidiness, hygiene, and maintenance of animal enclosures.
• Receive an introduction to animal training and enrichment programs in alignment with established targets for species behavior and wellbeing.
• Ensure the tidiness, hygiene, and maintenance of service areas and surroundings. Operate and maintain animal life-support systems and environmental controls. Identify and report maintenance and pest control needs.
• Engage with visitors to enhance their experiences. Conduct formal and informal public presentations, including animal care, natural history, conservation, and research.
• Preform all other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• Possession of a valid United States Driver's License, able to be maintained throughout employment.
• At least one (1) year of college level coursework at an accredited college or university, working towards a degree in Biology, Education, Veterinary Medicine, Psychology, Conservation, or another applicable field by the position's start date (May or June).
• Basic knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.
• Able to lift and carry up to 75 lbs. and push and pull up to 25 lbs.

During the application process please upload your updated resume and cover letter.

NOTE: This position is unclassified and not subject to Civil Service Rules and Regulations. This original application is open to qualified candidates authorized to work in the United States. Appointee must establish Wisconsin State residency within six (6) months of appointment and maintain such residency during incumbency. During the application process please upload your updated resume and cover letter outlining experience.

Hourly Pay Range: $14.02 - $21.03

Milwaukee County is committed to fostering an equitable working environment, free from discrimination and harassment, on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any form of discrimination, harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, pregnancy related condition, national origin, age, disability, FMLA status, sexual orientation, military status, marital status, or any other category or status that is now or in the future protected by federal, state, and local law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, background checks and pre-employment physicals subject to job requirements. If special accommodations are needed, please contact 414-278-3936.