Chester Zoo Internship Placements 2026

Job Overview

Do you have a passion for wildlife and conservation? Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to gain valuable experience in the zoo industry? Chester Zoo is seeking enthusiastic individuals for our 2026 internship placements!

We offer a range of internship opportunities across various departments, allowing you to gain insights into the diverse operations of a modern zoo.

Job Roles

• Animal Behaviour & Welfare: Assist our animal care team with data collection, enrichment activities, and welfare monitoring (voluntary).
• Conservation Social Science: Support conservation efforts through research, data analysis, and visitor engagement (voluntary).
• Commercial Operations (Under 16s only): Gain experience in our food and beverage, retail, admissions, and membership departments (work experience).

Education Requirements

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent qualifications) is required for all positions.
• For Animal Behaviour & Welfare and Conservation Social Science internships, a degree in a relevant field (biology, zoology, conservation, etc.) is preferred (voluntary).

Experience Requirements

• No prior experience is necessary; however, a demonstrable interest in animals and conservation is a plus.
• For the Commercial Operations role, some experience in customer service would be beneficial (work experience).

Skills Requirements

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• A strong work ethic, ability to work independently, and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to health and safety.
• For Animal Behaviour & Welfare and Conservation Social Science internships, basic IT skills and data analysis experience are desirable (voluntary).

Benefits

• Gain valuable experience in the zoo industry.
• Develop your knowledge and skills in animal care, conservation, or commercial operations.
• Work alongside experienced professionals in a dynamic environment.
• (For voluntary placements) Receive monthly workshops to gain wider zoological knowledge.
• (For Under 16s work experience) Get a taste of different departments within the zoo.

How to Apply

For more information and to apply, please visit the Chester Zoo careers page or search for relevant placements on: https://www.chesterzoo.org/work-with-us/work-placements/.