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Animal Keeper Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

Animal Tech

Flagstaff, AZ · On-site

$11 - $14.50/hr

Animal Tech Req Id: 2051 State/Province: Arizona Business: Gore Medical Products Category ... And in keeping with our belief that every Associate should share in the collective success of the ...

Modern Animal

Lead Veterinarian - Arcadia

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$162K - $190K/yr

... keeping * A vibrant, supportive, blame-free culture made up of people who are all here to change veterinary medicine for the better What does a Modern Animal Lead Veterinarian do? * Lead a team of ...

Modern Animal

Lead Veterinarian - Arcadia

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$162K - $190K/yr

... keeping * A vibrant, supportive, blame-free culture made up of people who are all here to change veterinary medicine for the better What does a Modern Animal Lead Veterinarian do? * Lead a team of ...

Modern Animal

Veterinarian - Arcadia

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$126K - $162K/yr

Check out "Inside Modern Animal" for a glimpse into what makes Modern Animal different. With a ... keeping * A vibrant, supportive, blame-free culture made up of people who are all here to change ...

Modern Animal

Veterinarian - Arcadia

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$126K - $162K/yr

Check out "Inside Modern Animal" for a glimpse into what makes Modern Animal different. With a ... keeping * A vibrant, supportive, blame-free culture made up of people who are all here to change ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

We are looking for a Veterinary Assistant to join VCA Urgent Care Animal Hospital in Chandler, AZ ... while keeping the doctor up to date on diagnostic results. An emphasis on low-stress handling ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary Assistant

Chandler, AZ

$18 - $21/hr

We are looking for a Veterinary Assistant to join VCA Urgent Care Animal Hospital in Chandler, AZ ... while keeping the doctor up to date on diagnostic results. An emphasis on low-stress handling ...

University of Arizona

Research Technician III

Phoenix, AZ

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

... animal handling, care, record keeping, and performing experimental procedures, (basic animal care is provided by the university animal care (UAC) team, this position is not required to do routine ...

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All JobsAnimal Keeper JobsAnimal Keeper Jobs in Arizona

Animal Keeper information

See Arizona salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do animal keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal keeper in Arizona is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $21.73 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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For Animal Keeper jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Animal Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Keeper job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,116 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Keeper I, II, Senior - Hoofstock

The Phoenix Zoo

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$27.44/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description
Department: Living Collections
Supervisor: Collection Manager of assigned area
Supervises: None
FLSA Status: Full Time, Regular, Non-exempt
Starting Pay Rate:
  • Keeper I:$23.70/hour
  • Keeper II: $24.89/hour
  • Senior Keeper: $27.44/hour

Application Submission Deadline: Open until filled
General Statement:
We are actively recruiting a hoofstock keeper, level dependent upon experience. Applicants need only apply once.
Keeper I:
The Keeper in this position is responsible for the safety, health and well-being of all assigned animals through the performance of documented husbandry practices. This position supports designated public experiences, by training and mentoring internal guests (staff and volunteers), developing and maintaining animal cued behaviors, and animal programs. A Phoenix Zoo Keeper also actively collaborates in the development and presentation of guest experiences that support the Phoenix Zoos mission.
Keeper II:
The Keeper II is responsible for the safety, health and well-being of all assigned animals through the performance of documented husbandry practices. This position supports designated public experiences, by training and mentoring internal guests (staff and volunteers), developing and maintaining animal cued behaviors and animal programs. In addition to performing Keeper II duties, this position actively collaborates in the presentation of guest experiences that support the Phoenix Zoo's mission.
Senior Keeper:
The Senior Keeper is responsible for the daily care, safety, health and well-being of all assigned animals through demonstrated knowledge of documented husbandry practices. The Senior Keeper will schedule and train assigned staff while demonstrating leadership and mentorship in the performance of assigned duties, as well as developing and maintaining animal management protocols. In addition to performing animal care duties, this position will engage and interact with guests in support of designated public experiences that support the Phoenix Zoo's mission.
Essential Duties:
Keeper I:
  1. Provide quality guest service to both internal and external guests by maintaining a WILD (friendly, helpful, positive and professional) working attitude and appearance.
  2. Perform routine husbandry by feeding prescribed diets, monitoring and reporting diet consumption consistent with documented Standard Operating Procedures; report any observed health or behavioral abnormalities of all assigned specimens to immediate supervisor on a daily basis.
  3. Assist in the development of protocols for the restraint, introduction/breeding, and husbandry care of assigned animals; amend and update Standard Operating Procedures as assigned.
  4. Perform assigned and approved behavioral enrichment activities and animal training procedures of assigned specimens in a timely manner and consistent with documented Standard Operating Procedures.
  5. Participate as assigned in non-routine health and husbandry activities such as animal transports, animal introductions/breeding, restraint and treatment of animals, and the medication of specimens.
  6. Respond to animal emergency circumstances according to approved protocols, ensuring the safety of guests and animals.
  7. Perform minor repairs to exhibits; interact with maintenance staff as needed and as assigned. Document and report any structural or mechanical problems.
  8. Work collaboratively with other staff and departments to support designated public experiences and other communication activities and goals that include participating as necessary with Special Events, Group Services, Marketing and PR events.

Keeper II:
  1. Provide quality guest service to both internal and external guests by maintaining a WILD (friendly, helpful, positive and professional) working attitude and appearance.
  2. Perform routine husbandry by feeding prescribed diets, monitoring and reporting diet consumption consistent with documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's); observe and report any health or behavioral abnormalities of all assigned specimens to immediate supervisor on a daily basis; advise staff on nutritional concern or seasonal adjustments; assist veterinary staff in carrying out health monitoring and assessment; perform Standard Operating Procedures associated with specialty areas or programs (e.g., venomous animal and large reptiles handling); and manage captive reproduction program components as assigned.
  3. Perform assigned and approved behavioral enrichment activities and animal training procedures of assigned specimens in a timely manner and consistent with documented Standard Operation Procedures; assist in the development and implementation of SOP's within assigned area; assist in the training of new staff in assigned SOP's.
  4. Perform routine maintenance of facilities by maintaining and reporting any structural or mechanical problems; provide support in the development of facility plans and assessments; Interact with maintenance staff as needed.
  5. Respond to animal emergency circumstances according to approved protocols.
  6. Participate as assigned in non-routine health and husbandry activities such as animal transports, animal introductions/breeding, restraint and treatment of animals, and the medication of specimens.
  7. Monitor the public ensuring the safety of visitors and animals.
  8. Work collaboratively with other staff and departments to support designated public experiences and other communication activities that include participating as necessary with Special Events, Group Services, Marketing and PR events.
  9. Initiate engagement and interaction with guests in support of the Zoo's mission by developing and conducting interactive animal programs.

Senior Keeper:
  1. Provide quality guest service to both internal and external guests by maintaining a WILD (friendly, helpful, positive and professional) working attitude and appearance.
  2. Perform routine husbandry by feeding prescribed diets, monitoring and reporting diet consumption consistent with documented Standard Operating Procedures; demonstrate knowledge of nutritional requirements of assigned specimens; observe all assigned animal specimens on a daily basis and report any health or behavioral abnormalities to immediate supervisor; assist in the development of protocols for the restraint and treatment of assigned animals; assist in the development of Standard Operating Procedures as assigned; remain current on protocols of assigned areas.
  3. Perform routine maintenance of facilities by maintaining and reporting any structural or mechanical problems; provide support in the development of facility plans and assessments; interact with maintenance staff as needed
  4. Respond to animal emergency circumstances according to approved protocols and provide leadership in emergency situations.
  5. Act as principal training coordinator for new staff and volunteers, ensuring appropriate knowledge and understanding of section SOP's and that training protocols are followed by staff. Assist manager in developing and troubleshooting schedule; mentor other keepers and help oversee volunteers and interns.
  6. Participate as assigned in non-routine health and husbandry activities such as animal transports, animal introductions/breeding, restraint and treatment of animals, and the medication of specimens.
  7. Assist in the development and Implementation of approved behavioral enrichment management initiatives in assigned area; participate, as approved, on zoo-related committees and assist in the development of approved animal training procedures.
  8. Monitor the public ensuring the safety of guests and animals.
  9. Work collaboratively with other staff and departments to support designated public experiences and other communication activities that include participating as necessary with Special Events, Group Services, Marketing and PR events.
  10. Initiate engagement and interaction with guests in support of the Zoo's mission by developing and conducting interactive animal programs.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change (e.g. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs, or technological developments.)
Requirements
Keeper I:
  1. Bachelors degree in Life Science or equivalent experience preferred.
  2. High school diploma required.
  3. Behavioral enrichment experience preferred.
  4. Minimum six months paid or one-year volunteer experience in work relevant to exotic animal husbandry.
  5. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  6. Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces.
  7. Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
  8. Possession of a valid drivers license.
  9. Ability to pass pre-employment background check, drug test, DMV check and clear annual TB test.

Keeper II:
  1. Bachelor's degree in Life Science or equivalent experience preferred.
  2. High school diploma required.
  3. Behavioral enrichment and operant conditioning experience preferred.
  4. Minimum 2 years paid experience relevant to animal husbandry in an AZA accredited institution or related facility.
  5. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  6. Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces.
  7. Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
  8. Possession of a valid driver's license.
  9. Ability to pass pre-employment background check, drug test, DMV check and clear annual TB test.

Senior Keeper:
  1. Bachelor's degree in Life Science or equivalent experience strongly preferred.
  2. Minimum of 5 years paid experience in work relevant to animal husbandry in an AZA accredited institution or related facility
  3. Behavioral enrichment and operant conditioning experience preferred.
  4. Knowledge in the areas of animal nutrition, public engagement and communication, facility maintenance.
  5. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  6. Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces and work in extreme weather conditions.
  7. Possession of a valid driver's license.
  8. Ability to pass pre-employment background check, drug test, DMV check and clear annual TB test.

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