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Animal Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peoria Park District

Animal Keeper

Peoria, IL · On-site

$20.96/hr

Under the supervision of the Animal Curator, the Animal Keeper will be responsible for: * Care for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo's collection. * Clean and disinfect displays and off-site ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Woodbridge, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

As an Animal Keeper, you'll play a hands-on role in animal care while helping guests experience the wonder of the natural world up close. Whether you're preparing habitats, observing animal behavior ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Woodbridge, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

As an Animal Keeper, you'll play a hands-on role in animal care while helping guests experience the wonder of the natural world up close. Whether you're preparing habitats, observing animal behavior ...

Peoria Park District

Animal Keeper

Peoria, IL · On-site

$20.96/hr

Under the supervision of the Animal Curator, the Animal Keeper will be responsible for: * Care for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo's collection. * Clean and disinfect displays and off-site ...

Jungle Island

ANIMAL KEEPER 1

Miami, FL · On-site

The Animal Keeper performs all job assignments with a professional and positive attitude that reflects Jungle Island's mission and vision of connecting people, wildlife, and conservation. The Animal ...

Jungle Island

ANIMAL KEEPER 1

Miami, FL · On-site

The Animal Keeper performs all job assignments with a professional and positive attitude that reflects Jungle Island's mission and vision of connecting people, wildlife, and conservation. The Animal ...

Lambs Farm

Animal Keeper

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$17/hr

SummaryWe are seeking an Animal Keeper to oversee the care of nearly 300 animals. This role involves ensuring animal welfare, working with participants with developmental disabilities, interacting ...

Jungle Island

PART TIME ANIMAL KEEPER 1

Miami, FL · On-site

The PT Animal Keeper 1 performs all job assignments with a professional and positive attitude that reflects Jungle Island's mission and vision of connecting people, wildlife, and conservation. The PT ...

City of Garden City (KS)

Animal Keeper

Garden City, KS · On-site

$18.93 - $23.08/hr

Description The City of Garden City is accepting applications for Animal Keeper with the Lee Richardson Zoo. This position is responsible for the care and maintenance of animals, habitats, grounds ...

San Bernardino County

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$19.41 - $28.18/hr

For more detailed information, refer to the Animal Keeper I . EXCELLENT BENEFITS To review job-specific benefits, refer to: Summary of Benefits and the Non-Represented Employee Compensation Plan The ...

City of Garden City, KS

Animal Keeper

Garden City, KS · On-site

$18.93 - $23.08/hr

Zoo Animal Care Opening Date: 08/21/2026 Closing Date: 9/4/2026 11:59 PM Central Description The City of Garden City is accepting applications for Animal Keeper with the Lee Richardson Zoo. This ...

Joia Beach Club

PART TIME ANIMAL KEEPER 1

Miami, FL

The PT Animal Keeper 1 performs all job assignments with a professional and positive attitude that reflects Jungle Island's mission and vision of connecting people, wildlife, and conservation. The PT ...

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Animal Keeper information

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How much do animal keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal keeper in the United States is $19.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal keeper?

Animal keepers are professionals responsible for the daily care, feeding, and well-being of animals in facilities such as zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, and research centers. Their duties often include cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health and behavior, preparing diets, and providing enrichment to encourage natural behaviors. Animal keepers may also assist with breeding programs, medical treatments, and educational outreach to the public. This role requires a strong commitment to animal welfare and a willingness to work in various weather conditions, often including weekends and holidays.

What does an animal keeper do?

An animal keeper works at a zoo or other wildlife reserve. As an animal keeper, you ensure that the animals under your supervision receive proper care. Your duties include feeding animals, cleaning and maintaining cages or exhibits, monitoring the animals for any signs of behavioral or health problems, and working with other keepers to make sure facility operations are running smoothly. Qualifications for the job vary. Some animal keepers can find work with a high school diploma or GED certificate, while others seek post-secondary instruction in natural science courses. Observational and animal-handling skills are crucial, so aspiring animal keepers should gain experience working with animals in any capacity.

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

To excel as an Animal Keeper, you typically need knowledge of animal care, husbandry practices, and a degree in biology, zoology, or a related field. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and sometimes certification such as AZA Professional Development is often required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for monitoring animal health and interacting with the public or team members. These competencies ensure the well-being of animals, compliance with regulations, and positive visitor experiences in zoological settings.

What are some typical challenges animal keepers face in their daily work, and how can they be addressed?

Animal Keepers often encounter challenges such as managing the diverse needs of different species, maintaining rigorous cleanliness standards, and responding to animal health issues promptly. Adapting to variable schedules, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays, is also common. Effective communication with veterinarians and other staff is essential for ensuring animal welfare. Building strong observation skills and staying updated on best practices in animal care can help keepers address these challenges successfully.

How much do animal keepers earn?

Animal keepers typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of animals cared for. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in larger or more prominent facilities.

What qualifications do you need to be an animal keeper?

Animal keepers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or education in animal care, biology, or zoology. Certifications in animal handling, first aid, or specific species care can be beneficial, and physical stamina is often required due to the physical demands of the job.
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Animal Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Keeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,902 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Animal Keeper

Peoria Park District

Peoria, IL • On-site

$20.96/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Care for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo's collection.

  • Clean and disinfect displays, off-site areas, dishes, pans, and utensils used in animal care and diet preparation.

  • Prepare, assist in the formulation of, and distribute diets; assist in handling, administering medication, and record keeping related to animal health.

Job description

Duties: Under the supervision of the Animal Curator, the Animal Keeper will be responsible for:
  • Care for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo's collection.
  • Clean and disinfect displays and off-site areas in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Clean and disinfect dishes, pans, and utensils used in diet preparation and animal care. Participate in all aspects of kitchen clean-up.
  • Keep work areas and public areas neat and orderly.
  • Prepare and distribute diets, assist in the formulation of diets, and the procurement of animal needs.
  • Assist in the handling of, administration of medication to, assisting in surgery, and record keeping of medications to assigned string.
  • Aide in the acquisition and distribution of consumable products necessary to maintain a wild animal population. Submit requests for animal supplies, expenditures, and bills to the Animal Curator.
  • Maintain accurate records and paperwork necessary to maintain a captive animal population.
  • Participate in preventative medicine/procedures and report animal health concerns to the Animal Curator or Zoo Director; serve as the liaison with the veterinarian as needed.
  • Recommend procedures for animal care, and research, and recommend animals for acquisition/disposition. Meet monthly in animal collection meetings as well as regularly with the Animal Curator to maintain information flow on the animal collection. Set goals and objectives based on review.
  • Participate in behavioral enhancement for the animal collection.
  • Report all malfunctions of heating, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical equipment and submit maintenance needs to the Animal Curator and maintenance staff.
  • Report emergencies and unusual situations to appropriate personnel.
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks as needed. Assist in exhibit repair and construction. Ensure exhibits are properly maintained for the species displayed and the general public.
  • Assist in programming and promotions of the zoo including working with volunteers. May be required to provide programming on an ongoing basis.
  • Wear the designated uniform during regular zoo hours.
  • Assume responsibility for knowing, being trained, and following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed.
  • Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Support all aspects of the Park District's safety program.
  • Perform other duties assigned:
    • which are reasonably related to the duties described; or
    • which need to be performed promptly to avoid safety hazards or to protect Park District property; or
    • which are not generally described in other job descriptions; or
    • when the amount of work exceeds the availability of Park District employees within the appropriate job classification.

Essential Functions:
  • Ability to reach, walk, pull, kneel, squat, and bend at the waist and knees.
  • Ability to understand and complete record keeping and paperwork relative to job duties.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Education: Four-year college degree in a related field. Although a degree is preferred, extensive experience in a similar position with similar duties and responsibilities may be substituted for all or part of the educational requirement.
Experience: One year of full-time experience in the care and maintenance of wild and/or domestic animals is required. A combination of education and experience may substitute.
Knowledge and Ability:
  • Basic knowledge of characteristics, diet, habits, and well-being of wild and domestic animals.
  • Aptitude for on-the-job training and ability to follow written and oral instructions.
  • Ability to work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in a positive and cooperative manner.
  • Must be dependable, courteous, and able to work with people of all ages.
  • Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.
  • Requires valid Illinois State Driver's License.
  • Personal: Must demonstrate reliability, initiative, tact, and resourcefulness.
  • This position is represented by the AFSCME, AFL-CIO's Local Union No. 3774.

Benefits and Perks:
  • Paid sick days, vacation days, and holidays.
  • Longevity bonus program and wellness program.
  • Pension and retirement programs and Social Security participating.
  • Exceptional health plan.
  • Paid Life Insurance.
  • Disability Insurance.
  • Full-time employees and dependents enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.
All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

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