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Animal Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fort Worth Zoo

Temporary Mammal Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

Demonstrated knowledge of: • Operations, services, and activities of a zoo animal program • ... record keeping Must possess ability to: • Work with a variety of domestic and wild animals • ...

fwzoo

Temporary Mammal Keeper

Fort Worth, TX

Demonstrated knowledge of: • Operations, services, and activities of a zoo animal program • ... record keeping Must possess ability to: • Work with a variety of domestic and wild animals • ...

fwzoo

Temporary Farm Town Keeper

Fort Worth, TX

Demonstrated knowledge of: • Operations, services, and activities of a zoo animal program • ... record keeping Must possess ability to: • Work with a variety of domestic and wild animals • ...

The CALDWELL ZOO

Keeper 1 - Mammals 1

Tyler, TX · On-site

Checks exhibits and animal enclosures cleanliness as well as safety and structural soundness on a daily basis. Takes appropriate steps to remedy existing or potential problems. * Keeps records ...

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How much do animal keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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.

Do zookeepers make good money?

Zookeepers typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and the institution. Entry-level positions may pay less, while specialized roles or those with advanced certifications can earn higher wages. The job often requires physical work, animal handling skills, and sometimes working weekends or 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 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.

What are animal keepers?

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 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.
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Animal Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Keeper job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,902 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Keeper at Junglereef Elpaso

Junglereef Elpaso

El Paso, TX • On-site

$10 - $11/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Jungle Reef in El Paso, TX is looking for one keeper to join our 41 person strong team. We are located on 750 Sunland Park Dr A01 A. Our ideal candidate is attentive, motivated, and engaged.

Keeper Job Description 

Position Overview:


As a Keeper at Jungle Reef, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of both guests and animals within our public aquarium. Your responsibilities extend across designated zones, where you will monitor animal behaviors, uphold safety protocols, and engage with visitors. It's essential to emphasize that Keepers work in specific zones, with different assignments from Monday to Thursday (2 zones) and Friday to Sunday (6 zones). Keepers are required to stay within their assigned zones until instructed otherwise, prioritizing guest and animal safety.

Key Responsibilities:

Animal Care and Safety:

  • Monitor animal behaviors and conditions within your assigned zones.
  • Ensure the overall health and well-being of the animals in your care.
  • Implement safety protocols to maintain a secure environment for both animals and guests.

Guest Interaction:

  • Engage with guests in a friendly and approachable manner.
  • Provide information about the animals, habitats, and conservation efforts.
  • Instruct and guide guests on safe and ethical feeding practices.

Feeding Demonstrations:

  • Conduct feeding demonstrations to showcase proper feeding techniques.
  • Educate guests on the nutritional needs of the animals and the importance of a balanced diet.

Animal Handling Education:

  • Instruct guests on how to safely and respectfully handle animals during interactive experiences.
  • Enforce rules and guidelines to prevent harm to both guests and animals.

Rotation and Flexibility:

  • Rotate through different exhibits as scheduled to offer a diverse experience for guests.
  • Adapt to changes in daily routines and exhibit requirements.

Team Collaboration:

  • Work collaboratively with other keepers, aquarists, and aquarium staff to ensure seamless operations.
  • Communicate effectively with team members to share important information about animal behaviors or guest interactions.

Reliability:

  • Demonstrate a high level of reliability and punctuality.
  • Understand the importance of staying within assigned zones to enhance guest and animal safety.

Qualifications:

  • Passion for animals and commitment to their welfare.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to educate and engage guests of all ages.
  • Basic knowledge of marine biology, ecology, and animal behavior.
  • Previous experience in a similar role or public aquarium is a plus.

Working Conditions:

This position involves standing for extended periods. Flexibility in working hours, including weekends and holidays, is required.

If you have a love for both animals and providing exceptional guest experiences. Your dedication to safety, education, and guest satisfaction will contribute significantly to the success of our public aquarium.








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