Job opportunities

Intern Zoo Keeper

Zookeeper Internship – 2025–2026 Placement (6-Month Minimum Commitment)

Are you looking to gain hands-on experience in the zoo industry?

At Drusillas Park, one of the UK’s best-loved small zoos, we’re offering internship placements within our zoo team for 2025–2026. We're looking for passionate individuals to work alongside our team of dedicated keepers, gaining direct experience in all aspects of modern zoo animal care.

Drusillas is home to nearly 90 species and prides itself on high welfare standards, excellent visitor engagement, and a strong commitment to conservation and education. This internship provides a fantastic opportunity to shadow and support experienced keepers, develop your husbandry skills, and gain insight into the workings of a professional zoological institution.

Interns will learn daily husbandry routines, help maintain enclosures, assist with enrichment and observation, and have the opportunity to support public engagement activities. Where appropriate, additional training and development may be offered during the placement.

Key Responsibilities

• Shadowing zookeepers with daily animal care routines, including feeding, cleaning, and health observation
• Support the upkeep of animal enclosures and exhibits
• Contribute to enrichment and behavioural training programmes
• Learn about animal health, nutrition, behaviour, and husbandry practices

What We’re Looking For

• A genuine passion for wildlife, animal care, and conservation
• A strong interest in pursuing a career in animal husbandry or zookeeping
• Currently studying or recently completed an animal-related course (desirable)
• Reliability and excellent teamwork skills
• Good level of physical fitness

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience within a professional and supportive zoo team
• Practical training in zoo husbandry and welfare techniques
• Exposure to a wide variety of species and enrichment practices
• Insight into the daily operations of a conservation-focused zoo
• A reference on successful completion of the internship

Additional Information

• Applicants must be 18 years or older
• A minimum six-month commitment is required
• Uniform is provided, travel expenses will be subsidised, and interns receive staff discounts on food outlets during intern days
• Interns must be able to financially support themselves, as no accommodation or wages are provided

If you're ready to be part of a dedicated and passionate team, and gain valuable experience in one of the South East's leading zoos, we’d love to hear from you.

We look forward to hearing from you!