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Animal Conservation Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Arizona State Hospital

Job Page

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$56K - $100K/yr

... conservation education team! This role plays an integral part in ensuring our facility, husbandry and animal behavior management practices are upheld to the highest standards while managing our ...

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Educator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16.49/hr

In this role, you'll lead engaging conservation programs that ignite curiosity and foster a ... internal animal handling certifications. • Compiles Museum artifacts, materials, and other ...

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Educator

Tucson, AZ

$16.49/hr

In this role, you'll lead engaging conservation programs that ignite curiosity and foster a ... internal animal handling certifications. • Compiles Museum artifacts, materials, and other ...

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Animal Conservation information

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$9

$19

$25

How much do animal conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal conservation in Arizona is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

How do I work in animal conservation?

To work in animal conservation, pursue relevant education such as a degree in biology, ecology, or environmental science, and gain experience through internships or volunteering with conservation organizations. Skills in research, data collection, and fieldwork are essential, and certifications in wildlife handling or GIS can enhance employability. Entry-level positions often require a strong commitment to conservation goals and the ability to work outdoors in various environments.

Is a career in animal conservation worth it?

A career in animal conservation involves working to protect wildlife and their habitats, often requiring fieldwork, research skills, and a degree in biology, ecology, or related fields. While it can be rewarding for those passionate about animals and the environment, it often offers limited job stability and lower salaries compared to other professions, making it important to consider personal goals and financial needs.

What can you do with an animal conservation degree?

An animal conservation degree prepares individuals for careers such as wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, park ranger, or environmental educator. These roles often involve fieldwork, research, habitat management, and collaboration with government agencies or NGOs, requiring skills in data collection, species identification, and environmental policies.
More about Animal Conservation jobs

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Animal Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Conservation job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,800 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Animal Care Specialist I (Bird & Mammal)

OdySea Aquarium

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
As part of the OdySea Aquarium animal team, this position has the potential to work with a diverse collection of animals including (but not limited to) California sea lions, Asian small-clawed otters, African penguins, reptiles, and small exotic land animals. A central responsibility of this position will be in the daily operation of their assigned area (i.e. habitat cleaning, maintenance, food preparation, enrichment management, etc.), educational animal presentations and engaging interactions with guests. Individual will demonstrate the understanding of operant conditioning techniques within the training department and throughout the aquarium to enhance animal welfare and visitor experience opportunities. Individual will be integral in educating and interacting aquarium guests about species survival and conservation through presentations.?
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Responsible for maintaining the highest level of animal welfare including both proactive and reactive identification, communication, and management of areas of opportunity.
  • Participate in educational animal presentations, shows, and interactive programs within the Aquarium. Ensure psotive and engaging interactions with guests, daily.
  • Uphold all department Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Support the training and mentoring of intern and volunteer team members.
  • Help create and implement enrichment plans for assigned animals.
  • Participate in the development of exhibits, educational planning, research and conservation activities.
  • Inspect and maintain exhibits, and related facilities, daily for cleanliness, safety, and structural integrity.
  • Communicate effectively with the rest of the Animal Care team and departmental leadership.
  • Ensure adherence to aquarium standards and procedures and compliance with the requirements of various professional associations and regulatory agencies. Maintain highest level of animal husbandry and training practices.
  • Build knowledge of industry innovations and progressive animal care through professional meetings and conferences, trade journals, and communication with professional colleagues.
  • Represent the Animal Care Department and OdySea Aquarium to visiting investors, professionals, guests, and media.??
  • Perform all other duties as assigned by Director, Curator and/or Manager.

Requirements
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Biology, Zoology, Marine Science or related discipline preferred, equivalent alternate experience accepted.
  • Minimum 1-year experience in a zoological setting working with exotic marine and/or terrestrial animals.
  • Excellent public speaking skills.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to access animal pools, exhibits, and enclosures.
  • Must be a strong swimmer, with the ability to pass departmental swim test.
  • Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, or irregular hours dictated by facility or animal needs.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time, as well as walk.?
  • Ability to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • Ability to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb stairs, or crawl.
  • Required to frequently talk and hear.
  • No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
  • Specific vision requirements for this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
  • Must be able to take directional cues directly or indirectly.
  • Ability to work in an environment that may be loud at times.
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions, including occasional extreme hot or cold, and wet and/or humid conditions.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Apply