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Animal Wildlife Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wildlife Conservation Society

Veterinarian

New York, NY

$110K - $130K/yr

... NYA) animal collection, serving a primarily clinical role, and, when assigned, providing medical care to the animals in the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) zoos. * Coordinate the veterinary ...

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How much do animal wildlife conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal wildlife conservation in the United States is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animal wildlife conservation?

Animal wildlife conservation refers to the practice of protecting animal species and their habitats to ensure their survival for future generations. This field involves scientific research, habitat preservation, and the implementation of policies to prevent species from becoming endangered or extinct. Conservationists work with governments, communities, and organizations to address threats like habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Their ultimate goal is to maintain biodiversity and promote a healthy balance within ecosystems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in animal wildlife conservation?

To thrive in Animal Wildlife Conservation, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, wildlife monitoring tools, and data analysis platforms is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for environmental stewardship help individuals excel in collaborative and challenging field conditions. These competencies are crucial for effective conservation efforts, stakeholder engagement, and the protection of endangered species and habitats.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in animal wildlife conservation?

Professionals in animal wildlife conservation often encounter challenges such as limited funding for projects, working in remote or harsh field conditions, and balancing the needs of wildlife with local human populations. Collaboration with government agencies, non-profits, and community stakeholders is key, but can sometimes lead to differing priorities and complex negotiations. Adapting to evolving environmental policies and threats like climate change also requires continuous learning and flexibility in daily responsibilities.

What is the difference between Animal Wildlife Conservation vs Animal Rehabilitation Specialist?

AspectAnimal Wildlife ConservationAnimal Rehabilitation Specialist
Required CredentialsBiology, Environmental Science degrees, conservation certificationsVeterinary or animal care certifications, rehabilitation training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, protected areas, conservation projectsRehabilitation centers, clinics, wildlife hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, research institutionsWildlife hospitals, rescue organizations, veterinary clinics

Animal Wildlife Conservation focuses on protecting species and habitats through research, policy, and fieldwork. In contrast, Animal Rehabilitation Specialists primarily care for injured or orphaned animals, helping them recover and return to the wild. While both roles involve working with animals, conservationists focus on broader ecosystem health, whereas rehabilitation specialists provide direct care to individual animals.

How do you start working in animal wildlife conservation?

To start a career in animal wildlife conservation, gaining a relevant degree such as biology, ecology, or environmental science is essential. Internships, volunteering, and fieldwork experience help build practical skills, while certifications in wildlife management or conservation can improve job prospects. Entry-level positions often require knowledge of local ecosystems and data collection tools.

Is a career in animal wildlife conservation worth it?

A career in animal wildlife conservation involves working to protect and preserve wildlife and their habitats, often requiring fieldwork, research, and environmental knowledge. While it can be rewarding for those passionate about conservation, it often offers limited financial compensation and competitive job markets, making dedication and specialized skills important for success.

What jobs can you get with animal wildlife conservation?

Jobs in animal wildlife conservation include wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, park ranger, wildlife rehabilitator, and environmental educator. These roles often require fieldwork, data collection, and knowledge of ecology, with some positions needing specialized certifications or degrees in biology, ecology, or environmental science.
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What states have the most Animal Wildlife Conservation jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Animal Wildlife Conservation jobs look for?

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Animal Wildlife Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Wildlife Conservation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,859 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Wild Animal Keeper, Oceans, Wonders: Shark!

Wildlife Conservation Society

New York, NY • On-site

$48K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Wildlife Conservation Society rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Position Title: Wild Animal Keeper
Department: Animal Programs/ Ocean Wonders: Shark!
Employment Type: Full-Time
Status: Union/Non-Exempt
Reports to: Animal Department Curator/Supervisor of Ocean Wonders: Sharks!
Schedule: 40 hours per week
Location: New York Aquarium, On-site
Salary: $48,119.00
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 provide excellent animal care and enhance the visitor experience. To perform any activity required for the life support systems necessary for animal wellbeing and exhibit appearance at the New York Aquarium. Work with elasmobranchs, sea turtles, marine fishes and invertebrates. 
Principle Responsibilities (may include but are not limited to):
  • Adhere to all Wildlife Conservation Society, New York Aquarium and Animal Department standards of conduct, policies, and procedures to ensure the standards of safety, animal wellbeing, animal training, and animal enrichment are being maintained.
  • Adhere to safety practices for self, staff, the living collection and guests.
  • Take responsibility for safety by bringing potentially dangerous situations to the attention of Management. 
  • Maintain safe and sanitary areas of food preparation/storage and animal habitats.
  • Ensure animals receive the appropriate nutrition, the appropriate food bases, and report changes through clear communication with Animal Supervisor.
  • Perform all primary, as well as, supportive roles in public demonstrations and exhibit feeds.
  • Promptly report any indication of illness or significantly unusual behavior being displayed.
  • Carry out the instructions for the care of sick and neonate animals, including administering treatments, vitamins and medication.
  • Observe the animals and their habitats for any indication of problems with environmental parameters or life support.
  • Inspect exhibits to ascertain whether corrective steps need to be taken to ensure appropriate environmental conditions, including but not limited to, inspecting filtration, water quality, lighting, temperature, and cleanliness.
  • Supervise and participate in the transfer of animals from one enclosure, habitat, zoo, aquarium, etc., to another.
  • Participate, and/or lead in the installation of exhibit materials
  • Must function in a team environment, demonstrating consideration, tolerance, cooperation, reliability, the ability to accept feedback, and a consistent professional approach to job.
  • Excellent communication skills a must.
  • Work in all areas of the Animal Department and ensure that all animal enclosures are appropriately secured at all times, regardless of the staff member responsible for the area.
  • Use operant conditioning via positive reinforcement to condition new behaviors and maintain each animal's current behavior criteria as assigned by Animal Department Management.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of established behavior goals.
  • Maintain animal husbandry, training, and enrichment records of all animals and facilitate the same for all team members.
  • Maintain a proactive approach to behavioral husbandry and anticipate behavioral issues.
  • Consistently strengthen animal conditioning skills and techniques, through observation, listening, participation, reading appropriate materials, and providing feedback to colleagues.
  • Work with the Aquarium's education department to facilitate educational programs.
  • Clean pools, tanks, exhibits, and all appropriate habitats through SCUBA diving.
  • Provide relief and coverage for a Senior Wild Animal Keeper in his/her absence.
  • Participate in the training of new staff, interns and volunteers.

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