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Voluntary Gorilla Keeper Internship

Voluntary Gorilla Keeper Internship

On site

Hythe, United kingdom

Internship

08-03-2026

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Skills

Training

Job Specifications

Closing date: Ongoing

Looking to gain experience in the zoo industry?

Internship Commencement: New Year 2026

At Howletts Wild Animal Park, situated near Canterbury in Kent, we have an internship placement available on the Gorilla Section. We are looking for a passionate, hardworking individual to work alongside our small team of enthusiastic and likeminded Gorilla Keepers. Howletts works in conjunction with The Aspinall Foundation; a charity committed to the conservation of rare and endangered animals through reintroduction programmes.

Howletts Wild Animal Park is home to the largest captive breeding group of Western Lowland Gorillas in the world with over 150 births to date. The individual will be taught husbandry techniques, as well as day-to-day duties.

Opportunity Overview

This placement is an excellent opportunity for you to shadow our keepers and to learn all aspects of animal husbandry. They will provide comprehensive practical training and significant insight into a successful and responsible zoological collection, with the goal of promoting your future employability in a career in animal husbandry.

Qualifications And Requirements

These placements will be ideal for individuals already studying or have recently finished an animal-related course and are looking to gain experience in the zoo industry. These positions can be physically demanding, so a good level of physical fitness, comfort working at height, and capability with heavy lifting are essential.

Candidates must be 18 or over and we are looking for a commitment of 3-5 days a week for 6-12 months for these internships.

Benefits and Support

As we are a Registered Charity, funded entirely by visitor fees and donations, we regret we are unable to offer any wages or salary for the placement. We will provide a uniform and a discount at the park's food outlets for the days that you attend work. No other financial benefits are offered. Candidates will need to have the ability to financially support themselves for the entire length of the internship. Please be aware that unfortunately, we are unable to accept non-UK residents or offer accommodation.

About the Company

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