Zoo Knoxville Internships
Undergraduate Students
Zoo Knoxville offers programs for undergraduates that provide practical experience for students interested in working in a zoological facility, encompassing the fields of animal care, research, and conservation.
To learn more or apply for our internship program contact us at [email protected].
High School Students
Zoo Apprenticeship Program
The Zoo Knoxville Zoo Apprenticeship Program (ZAP) is a professional paid work experience for youth in Knox County. This program is aimed to help high-school students explore career pathways and strengthen essential workplace skills through a variety of on-site work experiences and professional development programming. This unique experience allows students to become part-time paid apprentices at Zoo Knoxville. Throughout their time at the Zoo, apprentices will be given the opportunity to learn from Zoo staff the necessary knowledge, competencies, and training needed for success within their particular career field.
Zoo Apprenticeship Program (ZAP)
Application Information:
Applications for the Spring 2026 ZAP cohort are officially live! Each portion of the ZAP application package must be completed and submitted by Friday, November 7. Please read the application instructions and requirements carefully before applying. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
About the Zoo Apprenticeship Program
ZAP Requirements:
To be eligible to participate in the Zoo Apprenticeship Program, students must:
- Be a rising high-school junior or senior currently enrolled in a Knox County District School
- Hold a current GPA of 2.5 or higher and be on-track to graduate.
- Complete the program interest application .
- Complete a mandatory interview, orientation, and onboarding process (including drug screening).
- Commit to working between 8-15 hours per week throughout the spring semester. For students with enough credits, there may be flexibility to work during the school day as part of a “Work Based Learning” curriculum.
- Be hardworking, serious about learning, and willing to work outdoors in all types of weather.
ZAP Participants can expect to:
- Shadow zoo staff during their daily tasks to learn about responsibilities, requirements, and core competencies of their job.
- Engage in hands-on activities and strengthen essential workplace skills.
- Participate in career readiness and professional development workshops.
- Receive continuous supervision by zoo staff while working on zoo grounds.
- Work with staff to design and complete a capstone project that is representative of your time and work in the program. The subject of this project will depend on the apprentice’s interests and the department’s needs.
- Earn an hourly rate of $11.25/hour.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the Zoo Apprenticeship Program or application process, please reach out to our Workforce Culture and Development Coordinator, Abby Weaver at [email protected].