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Animal Wildlife Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wildlife Conservation Society

Veterinarian

New York, NY · On-site

$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 ...

Wildlife Conservation Society

Veterinarian

New York, NY · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

... 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 student ...

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How much do animal wildlife conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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?

The top searched job categories for Animal Wildlife Conservation jobs are:

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 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 $44,859 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Wild Animal Keeper, Mammals

Wildlife Conservation Society

New York, NY • On-site

$48K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 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

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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