Hands-on internships at a wildlife rescue centre in Spain
Gain practical experience alongside our team in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, environmental education and conservation.
You won’t just be watching. You’ll be part of the team.
Which internship opportunities are available?
Every role makes a difference at Zoo del Pirineu. Explore our internship opportunities and discover how you can contribute to wildlife rescue and conservation.
Animal Care and Environmental Education
You’ll take part in the daily care and rehabilitation of rescued wild animals, as well as environmental education activities with visitors.
Related university courses:
- Biology
- Environmental Sciences
- Vet
Related higher level training cycles:
- Higher Technician in Livestock and Animal Health Assistance
- Higher Technician in Forest and Natural Environment Management
Relevant courses of study:
- Veterinary Technical Assistant (ATV)
- Animal Rehabilitation Assistant
- Zoo and wildlife animal caretaker
Communication and Digital Marketing
Put your creativity into practice at a wildlife rescue centre. Help create content for social media, develop digital marketing campaigns and share the stories of rescued animals. Gain hands-on experience and see the impact of your work.
Related university courses:
- Journalism
- Audiovisual Communication
- Advertising and Public Relations
- Marketing
Related higher level training cycles:
- Higher Technician in Marketing and Advertising
- Higher Technician in Audiovisual Production and Shows
- Higher Technician in Travel Agencies and Event Management (in its communications aspect)
Business Management and Administration
Discover what it takes to run a wildlife rescue centre. Get involved in real projects, from budgeting and team coordination to improving daily operations. Gain practical business management experience while helping an organisation dedicated to protecting wildlife.
Related university courses:
- Business Administration and Management (ADE)
- Economy
- Finance and Accounting
Related higher level training cycles:
- Higher Technician in Administration and Finance
- Senior Technician in Management Assistance
- Higher Technician in Sales and Commercial Space Management
Dedicated Volunteers Welcome
Not a student?
If you’re someone with purpose and commitment, and can stay for at least 4 weeks, there’s a place for you here.
Our placements are also open to senior volunteers with experience who want to share their knowledge and keep contributing in a meaningful way.
Requirements for Interns and Volunteers
Language Requirements
For safety reasons, you must be able to communicate with our team in Spanish. Knowledge of Catalan or English is also valued.
Car
Our wildlife rescue centre is in a remote mountain location, so you’ll need a driving licence and your own car to get here. Unless you have a helicopter, of course!
Age
To join a work placement, you must be at least 18 years old.
There is no age limit. We also welcome adults or retirees with previous experience who want to continue contributing, learn something new, or reconnect with their vocation.
Minimum Duration
Whether you’re a student or a volunteer, we ask for a minimum commitment of 4 weeks.
Weekends
As part of the team, you’ll work two weekends per month (two working, two free).
Frequently Asked Questions about Work Placements
Are placements paid?
No, placements are not financially compensated.
But we offer you something even better:
- Free accommodation included
- You’ll gain real skills through hands-on tasks and personalised guidance
- Direct contact with wild animals
- You’ll be part of the team — not just an outside observer
Your time here has real purpose. And it will change you forever.
What is the minimum duration of an internship?
It depends on the type of internship:
- If you are a student doing a curricular (mandatory) internship: The duration will be adapted to the requirements of your educational institution.
- If you’re doing an extracurricular placement (on your own initiative) or volunteering:
We require a minimum commitment of 4 weeks.
Can I do an internship at any time of the year?
Yes, we welcome students and volunteers all year round.
How can I submit my application?
It’s very easy:
- Explore this page and make sure you understand the kind of training we offer — and which role suits you best.
- Think about what you can contribute and why you would like to be part of the team.
- Email us at zoopirineu@gmail.com
Tell us who you are, why you want to do yhe internship with us, what type of internship interests you, and what dates you are available. - Attach your CV and any information that will help us get to know you better.
We will respond as soon as possible to discuss the next steps.
How many students do you accept at the same time?
Four. This allows us to ensure personalised attention, close supervision and a high-quality learning experience.
Is there insurance or cover in case of an accident?
- If you do compulsory internship as a student, insurance is included in the agreement with your educational institution.
- If you’re doing an extracurricular placement or volunteering, you’re covered by our civil liability insurance under the framework of our volunteer collaboration policy.
Do you offer accommodation during the internship?
Yes. You’ll stay in a bungalow at Camping La Comella (Cambrils dels Pirineus), just 17 km from our center. We’ll cover the rent; you only pay for electricity and water. If we have more than one intern or volunteer at a time, you can share the costs among all the bungalow tenants.
What are the company internship schedules?
Full-time: 9:00–14:00 and 15:00–18:00
Do placements include weekend work?
Yes. Like the rest of the team, you’ll work two weekends per month (two on, two off).
This is part of how we operate: weekends are when we receive the most visitors — and when the animals need the most care. We balance this with time off during the week, and always respect your pace and wellbeing.
How can I check if internships are available?
Availability depends on the internship area and your preferred dates. Tell us what you’re studying, when you’d like to start and how many hours you need to complete. We’ll check availability and get back to you.
You’ll be part of the team, not just an observer. We’ll provide training, give you real responsibilities and help you gain practical experience working alongside our wildlife rescue team.
What brings us together is a shared commitment to wildlife and a genuine desire to make a difference to the animals in our care.
