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Animal Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Keeper

Woodbridge, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is approachable and engaging. * Help guests understand the "why" behind animal care and conservation efforts. * Maintain ...

Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is approachable and engaging. * Help guests understand the "why" behind animal care and conservation efforts. * Maintain ...

Animal Keeper

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$23.90 - $26.30/hr

A commitment to wildlife conservation and an eagerness to engage in local field conservation activities. * Strong teamwork ethic and personal accountability. * Excellent public speaking and ...

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Animal Conservation information

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$9

$21

$27

How much do animal conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal conservation in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Animal Conservation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Animal Conservation, you need a solid background in biology, ecology, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, data collection tools, and sometimes certifications in wildlife handling or conservation management are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help professionals collaborate with diverse stakeholders and adapt to challenging environments. These competencies are vital for effectively protecting wildlife, managing conservation projects, and engaging communities in sustainable practices.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Animal Conservation?

The qualifications to get a job in animal conservation typically include a bachelor’s degree and some experience with life sciences, research, and wildlife conservation through summer jobs or internships. As an undergraduate, study courses in biology, zoology, math, statistics, chemistry, and environmental science. If you want to do fieldwork, whether it’s research or direct conservation, you should have good physical strength and stamina. Strong interpersonal communication and analytical problem-solving skills, as well as a commitment to protecting the natural world, are all essential. Public-speaking skills are also vital for roles that entail educating the public about wildlife issues.

What is the difference between Animal Conservation vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectAnimal ConservationWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Conservation, Ecology, or related fields; certifications in wildlife managementBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Ecology, or related fields; research experience often required
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, conservation projects, NGOs, government agenciesResearch labs, field sites, academic institutions, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental NGOs, government conservation agencies, research organizationsUniversities, research institutes, government agencies, environmental consultancies

Animal Conservation focuses on protecting species and habitats through management and policy, often working with NGOs and government agencies. Wildlife Biologists primarily conduct research to understand animal behavior, ecology, and populations, often working in labs or field research. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their primary focus and work settings.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in animal conservation roles?

Professionals in animal conservation often encounter challenges such as securing consistent funding for projects, managing human-wildlife conflicts, and working in remote or challenging field environments. Collaboration with local communities and stakeholders is essential, as gaining their support can be vital for project success. Additionally, conservationists must stay informed about evolving environmental regulations and scientific research, ensuring that their efforts are both effective and sustainable.

What is animal conservation?

Animal conservation is the practice of protecting endangered species and their habitats to ensure their survival for future generations. It involves scientific research, habitat preservation, anti-poaching efforts, and education programs. Conservationists work with governments, communities, and organizations to implement strategies that reduce threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade. The goal is to maintain biodiversity and restore populations of threatened animals.
What cities are hiring for Animal Conservation jobs? Cities with the most Animal Conservation job openings:
What states have the most Animal Conservation jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Conservation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Animal Conservation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,783 per year, or $21 per hour.

Animal Experiences Specialist

TANGANYIKA WILDLIFE PARK LLC

Goddard, KS • On-site

$16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Craft WOW Moments. Inspire Action. Drive Conservation.
At Tanganyika Wildlife Park, we go beyond caring for animals. We create once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make you say "WOW". Inspiring generations to become conservation champions.
If you're passionate about animals, driven by purpose, and believe that one moment can change a life then this is where you belong.
Why Tanganyika?
A Front Row Seat to Conservation in Action
We're not a zoo. We're an experience. At Tanganyika, you'll be part of a team pioneering interactive conservation experiences that educate, engage, and empower. We do conservation a bit different our focus is conservation one person at a time. Making people aware of the species, getting them interested, and then calling them to action.
Work That Gives You Goosebumps
From helping a toddler feed a giraffe for the first time to guiding a training session with a curious lemur, your job here is anything but ordinary. This is the kind of place where work and wonder collide.
Real Growth. Real Mentorship. Real Impact.
Whether you're starting your career or seeking your next challenge, Tanganyika invests in you. We care about you beyond the workplace with initiatives to help our team reduce their consumer debt to an employee assistance program to our Dream Manager program, we want you to become the best YOU.
A Culture That Cares-For Animals and Humans
We lead with love, and it shows. Our team is fiercely supportive, deeply passionate, and united by a shared purpose. And yes, your "co-workers" might include sloths, rhinos, and porcupines.
Purpose That Reaches Beyond the Park
Every moment you create here fuels a global mission. Whether it's supporting field conservation projects or inspiring a child to become a future biologist, your work leaves a legacy.
The AES team brings animal encounters to life through behind-the-scenes tours, meet & greets, and offsite programs. From guest engagement to behavior training, this team does it all-with creativity and heart. You'll work with a wide variety of ambassador animals like sloths, macaws, otters, penguins, and more, all while helping guests form unforgettable connections and supporting our broader animal training efforts.
Love training and inspiring others? You'll fit right in!
What You'll Do
  • Create meaningful connections between guests and animal conservation through safe, engaging, and educational experiences that inspire ongoing support for the park.
  • Maintain thorough knowledge of ambassador species and stay current on their conservation status.
  • Communicate effectively about animal ambassadors, answering guest questions and sharing conservation stories.
  • Train and reinforce behaviors following established protocols to support animal welfare and guest interaction.
  • Assist zookeepers with training sessions and provide constructive feedback to ensure consistency and quality.
  • Evaluate each ambassador session and document progress accurately in the Animal Care Software.
  • Uphold high standards of cleanliness, safety, and professionalism in all AES areas.
  • Provide occasional husbandry support to other Care Team departments as needed.

What You Bring
  • 1+ years of experience training animals in an ambassador setting or 2+ years of husbandry training experience.
  • Basic understanding of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training
  • Excellent public speaking and customer service skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
  • Ability to work long hours, weekend, weekdays, holidays
  • Ability to stand and walk for up to 8 hours per day with frequent stooping and bending
  • Ability to routinely lift up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds
  • Desire to grow as a team member and human being

What We Offer
  • Year round, full-time position
  • Starting hourly rate of $16.50/hr with pay modifiers for training experience and/or keeper experience
  • Professional development program (tiers and badges) that allows staff to improve their skill set and earn additional pay compensation
  • Click the link to see TWP Benefits

Apply at https://tagannyikawildlifeparkllc.easyapply.co
If you have any issues apply please email amoody@twpark.com for assistance.