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Animal Program Conservation Behavior Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SFZOO

Chief Animal Officer

San Francisco, CA

$180K - $200K/yr

Provide executive oversight of animal care, welfare, behavior, veterinary services, and nutrition ... Represent the Zoo in professional associations and conservation initiatives (e.g., AZA programs ...

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Animal Program Conservation Behavior information

What is the difference between Animal Program Conservation Behavior vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal Program Conservation BehaviorAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field; certifications in animal behavior or conservationHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentWildlife reserves, conservation projects, research facilitiesZoological parks, animal shelters, veterinary clinics
Employer & Industry UsageConservation organizations, research institutionsZoological parks, animal care facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in conservation and behavior researchAnimal care and husbandry tasks

Animal Program Conservation Behavior professionals focus on studying and promoting animal behavior in conservation contexts, often working in research and field projects. In contrast, Animal Care Technicians primarily provide daily care and husbandry for animals in zoos or shelters. While both roles involve working with animals, their focus, credentials, and work environments differ significantly.

What is animal program conservation behavior?

Animal program conservation behavior refers to the application of behavioral science principles to support wildlife conservation efforts, often within managed animal populations such as zoos and aquariums. Professionals in this field study animal behavior to enhance animal welfare, promote natural behaviors, and assist with breeding, reintroduction, and conservation education programs. Their work helps ensure that animals in conservation programs thrive and that these programs are successful in preserving species and their natural behaviors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animal Program Conservation Behavior Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Program Conservation Behavior Specialist, you need a background in animal behavior, ecology, and conservation, usually supported by a relevant degree such as biology, zoology, or environmental science. Experience with behavioral observation tools, data collection software, and familiarity with conservation management systems are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help you interpret data, develop protocols, and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills are essential for creating effective conservation strategies and improving animal welfare in managed care or natural environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Animal Program Conservation Behavior roles?

Professionals in Animal Program Conservation Behavior often encounter the challenge of balancing animal welfare with conservation goals, particularly when designing behavioral enrichment or reintroduction programs. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—such as veterinarians, animal caretakers, and researchers—can also be complex, requiring strong communication and collaboration skills. Additionally, professionals must stay updated on the latest scientific research and adapt strategies to fit the evolving needs of both animals and conservation initiatives. These challenges make the role both demanding and highly rewarding for those passionate about animal behavior and conservation.
Infographic showing various Animal Program Conservation Behavior job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 10% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 10% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.
Wild Animal Keeper, Mammals

Wild Animal Keeper, Mammals

Wildlife Conservation Society

New York, NY

$48K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Wildlife Conservation Society rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Title: Wild Animal Keeper
Reports To: Supervisor of Animals/Animal Dept. Curator
Position Managed: N/A
Department: Animal Programs
Location: Bronx Zoo
Employment Type: Union, Full-Time
Pay Range: $48,119.00 per year
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS): 
WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world's premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean.  We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence.  Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.
Position Summary:
To perform any activity necessary for the safe, proper, and humane management and maintenance of the animal collection, exhibits, holding facilities and associated service.
Principal Responsibilities:
  • Perform safe, proper and humane care of assigned animals according to established protocols or under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and /or the supervisory/curatorial staff.
  • Prepare animal diets according to established protocols or under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff.
  • Perform safe and proper maintenance of assigned animal exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas according to established protocols or under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff. 
  • Assist curatorial/supervisory staff in developing safe, proper and humane protocols for the management and maintenance of the animal collection, exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas.
  • Participate in the modification and enhancement of animal exhibits under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff to include, but not limited to the installation of plant material, perches and exhibit props such as rocks and logs, monitoring water quality, addition of substrates, and cleaning of exhibit glass and graphic panels.
  • Inspect animal exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas to ensure that they are clean, well lit, properly ventilated, properly heated or cooled, and that all mechanical systems are operating properly.  
  • Observe the animals entrusted to his/her care and report promptly on any indication of illness.
  • Carry out the veterinarian's instructions for the care of sick animals and follow all protocols established for the daily care of the animals.
  • Participate in Bronx Zoo animal behavior programs to facilitate animal management and to enhance and enrich the daily lives of the animals in our care.
  • Develop animal conditioning skills and techniques. Implement department programs to condition behaviors and acclimate both naive and experienced animals to exhibits.  
  • Participate in daily enrichment programs.
  • Aid the general public and provide information concerning the Bronx Zoo, visitor services, exhibits and the animal collection.
  • Enforce the Bronx Zoo's visitor rules and regulations.
  • Perform other related tasks and duties at the instruction of senior animal keepers and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff.

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