ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animal Educator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Layton, UT · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Guest Experience & Education: * Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility. * Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Woodbridge, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Guest Experience & Education: * Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility. * Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is ...

Alliance Animal Health

Animal Care Technician

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$13 - $14/hr

Higher educational opportunities are available at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana University ... The animal care technician is responsible for the care, feeding, medicating, and cleaning of our ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Layton, UT

$20 - $22/hr

Guest Experience & Education: * Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility. * Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Folsom, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Guest Experience & Education: * Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility. * Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Woodbridge, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Guest Experience & Education: * Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility. * Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Folsom, CA

$20 - $22/hr

Guest Experience & Education: * Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility. * Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsAnimal Educator Jobs

Animal Educator information

See salary details

$10

$22

$40

How much do animal educator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal educator in the United States is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Educator vs Animal Trainer?

AspectAnimal EducatorAnimal Trainer
CredentialsOften requires animal-related certifications or degrees in education or animal scienceTypically requires certifications in specific training methods or animal handling
Work EnvironmentZoos, aquariums, wildlife centers, educational programsDog training centers, pet stores, private training settings
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, zoos, conservation organizationsPet industry, private clients, animal shelters
Primary FocusEducating the public about animals, conservation, and welfareTraining animals for behavior, obedience, or performance

Animal Educators focus on teaching the public about animals and conservation, often working in educational settings. Animal Trainers specialize in training animals for specific behaviors or performances, primarily working with individual animals or groups in training environments. While both roles involve working with animals, their goals and work settings differ significantly.

How does an Animal Educator typically collaborate with other professionals in zoos or wildlife centers?

Animal Educators often work closely with animal caretakers, veterinarians, and education coordinators to develop engaging and accurate programs for visitors. They may coordinate with animal trainers to safely include live animals in presentations, ensuring both animal welfare and public safety. Regular collaboration with marketing and event teams is also common, especially when planning special events or outreach activities. This teamwork helps ensure that educational content is both scientifically accurate and accessible to diverse audiences.

What are Animal Educators?

Animal Educators are professionals who teach people about animals, their behaviors, habitats, and the importance of conservation. They often work in settings like zoos, aquariums, wildlife centers, or educational institutions, delivering presentations, leading tours, and creating educational materials. Their goal is to inspire curiosity, increase public awareness, and promote responsible attitudes toward wildlife and the environment. Animal Educators may also work with both children and adults, adapting their programs to different audiences.

How to become an animal educator?

To become an animal educator, typically a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or a related field is required, along with experience working with animals. Developing strong communication skills and gaining experience through volunteering or internships at zoos, aquariums, or wildlife centers can also help prepare for this role. Certification or specialized training in animal care or education may enhance job prospects.

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

To thrive as an Animal Educator, you need a solid understanding of animal science, behavior, and ecology, often supported by a degree in biology, zoology, or a related field. Familiarity with educational tools, animal handling protocols, and presentation technologies is typically required. Outstanding communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skills help engage diverse audiences and foster a passion for animal conservation. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively educating the public, ensuring animal welfare, and promoting conservation efforts.
More about Animal Educator jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Educator jobs? Cities with the most Animal Educator job openings:
What states have the most Animal Educator jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Educator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Educator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Educator jobs are:
Animal Educator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Educator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,628 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Animal Educator & Attendant

Animal Educator & Attendant

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Animal Educator – Job Description
Overview:
An Animal Educator is responsible for developing and delivering engaging educational programs and presentations about animals, conservation, and environmental topics. This role helps foster public awareness, appreciation, and responsible stewardship of wildlife and natural resources.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop and present educational programs for schools, camps, tours, and public events.
  • Handle and present live animals safely in front of audiences of various ages.
  • Educate guests on animal biology, behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts.
  • Assist in creating interpretive signage, displays, and educational materials.
  • Support animal care staff with daily husbandry duties as needed.
  • Ensure all educational content aligns with the organization’s mission and animal welfare standards.
  • Maintain accurate program attendance and animal use records.
  • Participate in training and professional development related to animal handling and interpretation.
  • Engage with guests to answer questions and encourage conservation action.
  • Comply with all safety and regulatory standards regarding animal handling and public interaction.
Skills and Qualifications:
  • Strong public speaking and communication skills.
  • Experience with animal handling and interpretation.
  • Knowledge of zoology, wildlife conservation, or environmental education.
  • Ability to adapt programs for different audiences and age groups.

Animal Attendant – Job Description
Overview:
An Animal Attendant is responsible for the daily care, feeding, and welfare of animals in a zoo, sanctuary, rehabilitation, or educational facility. They ensure animals’ needs are met while maintaining clean, safe, and enriching environments.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Feed, water, and monitor animals according to established diets and schedules.
  • Clean and sanitize enclosures, habitats, and work areas.
  • Observe animal behavior and health; report abnormalities or concerns to supervisors or veterinarians.
  • Assist in administering medications and following treatment plans under supervision.
  • Provide environmental enrichment to promote physical and mental well-being.
  • Maintain accurate records of animal diets, behavior, and health observations.
  • Assist with animal training and handling for educational or husbandry purposes.
  • Support guest engagement by answering questions and promoting responsible wildlife care.
  • Follow all safety procedures and biosecurity protocols.
  • Operate and maintain cleaning, feeding, and safety equipment.
Skills and Qualifications:
  • Experience working with animals in a professional or volunteer capacity.
  • Basic understanding of animal behavior and welfare principles.
  • Attention to detail and ability to follow specific care instructions.
  • Physical ability to lift, bend, and perform manual labor in various weather conditions.
  • Compassion, patience, and strong work ethic.

 

Powered by JazzHR

UDpCDZwbRy