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Animal Encounters Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Okaloosa County

Animal Control Chief

Crestview, FL · On-site

$76K - $127K/yr

This position may encounter conditions typical of emergency/disaster situations. Must be able to ... an animal services environment. Physical demands are in excess of those for sedentary work.

Dallas Zoo

General Application - Animal Care

Dallas, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

Summary Are you passionate about animal care, welfare, and conservation? Submit your application ... The Wild Encounters team focuses on up-close encounters through structured presentations at our ...

Okaloosa County

Animal Control Chief

Pensacola, FL · On-site

Animal Control or Shelter services experience is required. Licenses and/or Certifications: Requires ... This position may encounter conditions typical of emergency/disaster situations. Must be able to ...

Okaloosa County, FL

Animal Control Chief

Crestview, FL · On-site

$76K - $127K/yr

Animal Control or Shelter services experience is required. Licenses and/or Certifications: Requires ... This position may encounter animals in various types of temperament during execution of their ...

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Animal Encounters information

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$9

$21

$27

How much do animal encounters jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal encounters 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 some common challenges faced by professionals working in Animal Encounters roles at zoos or wildlife centers?

Professionals in Animal Encounters roles often face the challenge of balancing animal welfare with providing engaging guest experiences. They must ensure that interactions are safe for both animals and visitors, requiring close teamwork with animal care staff and strict adherence to safety protocols. Additionally, adapting educational messages to diverse audiences and managing unpredictable animal behavior are typical aspects of the job. Collaboration with veterinarians, educators, and operations teams is essential to create positive, educational, and safe encounters.

What are Animal Encounters?

Animal Encounters are interactive experiences that allow people to get up close with animals, often in a controlled environment like a zoo, aquarium, sanctuary, or wildlife park. These encounters may include feeding, touching, or learning about different species under the supervision of trained staff. The goal is to educate visitors, promote conservation, and foster a deeper appreciation for animals and their habitats. These programs typically prioritize animal welfare and safety for both the animals and participants.

What is the difference between Animal Encounters vs Animal Care Specialist?

AspectAnimal EncountersAnimal Care Specialist
Required CredentialsBasic animal handling, customer service skillsVeterinary or animal science certifications, animal handling experience
Work EnvironmentZoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, educational eventsAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntertainment, education, tourismAnimal welfare, healthcare, research
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles involving direct animal interaction with visitorsUnderstanding roles focused on animal health and care

Animal Encounters typically involve engaging with visitors through interactive animal experiences, often in entertainment or educational settings. Animal Care Specialists focus on the health, well-being, and medical needs of animals in shelters, clinics, or research. While both roles require animal handling skills, Animal Encounters emphasize customer interaction, whereas Animal Care Specialists prioritize animal health and welfare.

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

To excel in an Animal Encounters position, you typically need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, along with experience handling and caring for various species. Familiarity with animal care protocols, safety equipment, and potentially certification in first aid or animal handling is essential. Strong communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skills help you engage and educate diverse audiences while ensuring safety. These skills are crucial for both the well-being of the animals and for providing safe, informative, and engaging experiences to visitors.
More about Animal Encounters jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Encounters jobs? Cities with the most Animal Encounters job openings:
What states have the most Animal Encounters jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Encounters jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Encounters jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Encounters jobs are:
Animal Encounters jobs near you
Seasonal Grounds and Landscaping

Seasonal Grounds and Landscaping

African Safari Wildlife Park

Port Clinton, OH • On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Temporary

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Please complete the job application to the best of your ability. Incomplete applications will not be considered. This includes past employment with references.
African Safari Wildlife Park is a drug-free workplace and equal opportunity employer.
Seasonal Landscaping Staff
African Safari Wildlife Park, one of the top family destinations in the Shores & Islands Ohio region, is entering a period of significant growth and investment. Guided by our mission, we are dedicated to inspiring connections between people and wildlife while fostering an appreciation for the natural world.
We're looking for talented individuals who are passionate about animals, wildlife conservation, and providing amazing guest experiences to embark on this exciting journey with us! Whether you're an expert in animal care, a leader in guest services, or an advocate for conservation, there's a place for you on our team.
ALL POSITIONS: The Essential Functions of the job are to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and carry up to 50 lbs.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Plant flowers, trees, grass and bushes
  • Mow and rake lawns
  • Trim and prune trees
  • Water plants and lawns as needed
  • Remove leaves and other debris as needed
  • Strictly adhere to Park safety procedures

Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older and pass pre-employment screening
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and good driving record
  • Basic knowledge of landscaping principles and practices
  • Ability to operate a golf cart, lawn mower and power tools
  • Ability to follow both oral and written instructions
  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor.
  • Ability to work under adverse conditions, including weather and heights

What We Offer
  • Hybrid, flexible work schedule ideal for college students, teachers and seasonal residents./li>
  • Opportunities for further education and development
  • Team member appreciation days and parties
  • Free admission for yourself, family and friends on your days off
  • In-Park discounts on retail and select animal encounters

Apply