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Animal Conservationist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Z&A Management

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 ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper - Full Time

Folsom, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/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 ...

Santa Barbara Zoo

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 Conservationist information

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$68K

$174.5K

How much do animal conservationist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal conservationist in the United States is $171,401.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Conservationist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Conservationist, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant degree and field experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, wildlife tracking technology, and data analysis software is typically required. Outstanding communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help in collaborating with diverse stakeholders and advocating for conservation initiatives. These skills enable effective research, data-driven decision-making, and successful implementation of conservation projects to protect wildlife and ecosystems.

What are some of the common challenges faced by animal conservationists in the field?

Animal conservationists often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh environments, securing adequate funding for projects, and navigating complex regulations or partnerships with local communities and governments. Additionally, balancing conservation goals with the needs of local populations and addressing threats like poaching or habitat loss require strong problem-solving and communication skills. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding, as it directly contributes to the preservation of endangered species and ecosystems.

What does an Animal Conservationist do?

An animal conservationist works to protect endangered species and their habitats, often through research, habitat restoration, public education, and advocacy. They may conduct field studies to monitor wildlife populations, develop conservation plans, and collaborate with government agencies or non-profit organizations. Their goal is to ensure the survival of animal species and maintain biodiversity. Conservationists also raise awareness about threats like habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.
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Who are the top companies hiring for Animal Conservationist jobs? The top employers for Animal Conservationist jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Conservationist jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Conservationist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Conservationist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Conservationist jobs are:
Animal Conservationist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Conservationist 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 $171,401 per year, or $82.4 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.

Apply