Intern, Animal Caregiver, Black Beauty Ranch - Winter 2026 (6 openings)

December 7, 2026 - February 26, 2027 

$13.39 per hour working 40 hours per week. Housing provided!

When applying, you will be asked to submit a cover letter, resume, completed Essential Capabilities document, and three letters of recommendation/references with your application.

Please specify in your cover letter if you have a specific area of interest (equine, farm animals, wildlife, and/or primate). 

Humane World for Animals, a global leader in animal advocacy and protection has Animal Care Internships (6) available for Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch (CABBR) in Murchison, TX. The sanctuary provides a permanent home to more than 700 domestic and exotic animals, with over 40 species.

Animal Care interns will primarily learn about and perform various animal husbandry duties alongside the staff while gaining valuable ranch experience and knowledge about Black Beauty Ranch (BBR) and Humane World for Animals. The internship is for 12 weeks during Winter (December 7, 2026 - February 26, 2027), working approximately 40 hours a week. If selected, interns must commit to the full 12-week session. 

Responsibilities:

• Learn how to properly care for various species of animals including knowledge of proper diet, operant conditioning, and enrichment for various species;
• Learn the care and husbandry challenges of the animals in our care;
• Learn basic medical care procedures and documentation;
• Knowledge of BBR and how the program area fits into the larger picture of animal protection;
• Exposure to the operations of an animal care center;
• Knowledge of various animal protection issues;
• Knowledge of animals’ habitats;
• Develop a structured mentor/mentee relationship;
• Strengthen networking and time management skills including how to prioritize assignments and multi-task;
• Opportunity to either research and present an educational presentation on a preselected topic, or complete a working project for one of BBR’s departments (must be approved by supervisor);

Intern in our equine, wildlife, farm or primate department, performing the following responsibilities:

• Prepare diets and feed/water in measured amounts using diet instructions (for larger pastures, this requires driving a ranch truck); keep track of animal feedings on forms and feeding board;
• Clean enclosures which may include raking, weeding, sweeping platforms, and climbing ladders up to 8 feet;
• Learn to identify animals as individuals;
• Observe and monitor health and well-being of animals and maintain detailed observation records as directed;
• Provide behavioral enrichment and stimulation on a daily basis;
• Complete general housekeeping tasks: use appropriate cleaning and disinfecting agents, sweep, mop, and wipe down counters of work areas, ensure proper removal of garbage and compost, launder towels and bedding as needed, empty and wash/sanitize dishes daily, keep food storage areas and work areas neat and tidy, and wash carriers or caging;
• Maintain equipment through regular cleaning of vehicles and equipment used in outside work.  

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age;
• Must have reliable transportation and arrive on time for shifts;
• Must provide proof of negative tuberculosis (TB) test; Tetanus & preexposure rabies vaccinations recommended but not required;
• Must have a driver’s license and an excellent driving record;
• Must wear closed-toed, rubber-soled shoes;
• Must be able to learn and follow guidelines and policies of Humane World and BBR, and follow directions given by staff;
• Must submit the required paperwork and pass a background check before being assigned;
• Should have a phone for easy communication, access to a computer and ability to login into an online volunteer communication site to receive updates;

Necessary knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Able to meet the requirements outlined in the Essential Capabilities document with or without reasonable accommodation;
• Strong interpersonal skills and able to maintain professionalism in attitude and appearance;
• Able and willing to follow all safe animal handling protocols;
• Able to work closely with the BBR staff;
• Attentive to detail with a commitment to accuracy;
• Able to work well independently and as part of a team;
• Able to learn, follow directions, and make appropriate suggestions;
• Possess a strong personal work ethic;
• Willing to take initiative on a variety of projects and change priorities;
• Must be organized and tidy, as interns are responsible for keeping the surrounding grounds clean and trash-free;
• Able to understand Humane World and BBR’s policies, mission, and positions regarding animal protection issues and able and willing to appropriately and accurately represent those policies when interacting with the public or otherwise representing the organization;
• Volunteer experience or prior internship working with and/or handling equine, farmed animals, or wildlife is helpful.

This full-time position is located in Murchison, TX. On-site housing provided. 

When completing the application please use the additional documents section to upload your cover letter, resume, completed Essential Capabilities document, and three letters of recommendation/references.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital or parental status or protected veteran status. EOE 

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