ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Reptile Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laredo College

Wildlife Technician Assistant

Laredo, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $20.06/hr

... Center, grounds keeping, and for assisting with activities among the various groups and ... reptile room, animal food prep area, main lobby, restrooms, and other public facilities located ...

Dallas Zoo Management

Veterinary Technician

Dallas, TX · On-site

... keeping and inventory. • Assist veterinarians in monitoring efficacy, form of medication, and ... reptile and fish hematology. • Perform and maintain records of laboratory quality control testing ...

Dallas Zoo

Veterinary Technician

Dallas, TX

... keeping and inventory. • Assist veterinarians in monitoring efficacy, form of medication, and ... reptile and fish hematology. • Perform and maintain records of laboratory quality control testing ...

Pet Station

Sales Associate

Reno, NV · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Reptile Care: Provide appropriate care for reptiles, including maintaining proper temperature and ... We are happy to assist!

Pet Station

Sales Associate

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Reptile Care: Provide appropriate care for reptiles, including maintaining proper temperature and ... We are happy to assist!

Pet Station

Sales Associate

Reno, NV · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Reptile Care: Provide appropriate care for reptiles, including maintaining proper temperature and ... We are happy to assist!

Pet Station

Sales Associate

Reno, NV · On-site

$14/hr

Reptile Care: Provide appropriate care for reptiles, including maintaining proper temperature and ... We are happy to assist!

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

They also assist with the development and writing of standard operating procedures and department ... Experience with reptile and amphibian exhibit design, including environmental parameter management ...

All JobsReptile Keeper JobsAssistant Reptile Keeper Jobs

Assistant Reptile Keeper information

See salary details

$11

$22

$31

How much do assistant reptile keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant reptile keeper in the United States is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Reptile Keeper, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Reptile Keeper, you need a foundational understanding of reptile biology, husbandry, and animal care, often supported by a relevant degree or experience in zoology or animal science. Familiarity with habitat maintenance tools, record-keeping systems, and basic veterinary procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, communication, and a calm demeanor are crucial soft skills when handling animals and working in a team environment. These competencies are vital to ensure reptile health, safety, and proper facility operations.

What are assistant reptile keepers?

Assistant reptile keepers are entry-level professionals who help care for reptiles in settings such as zoos, aquariums, research facilities, or reptile centers. Their duties typically include feeding reptiles, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, assisting with habitat maintenance, and supporting senior staff with husbandry tasks. They may also help observe animal behavior, record data, and sometimes interact with the public through educational programs. This role is a great starting point for those interested in animal care careers, especially with reptiles.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Reptile Keepers, and how can they be addressed?

Assistant Reptile Keepers often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) for diverse reptile species and recognizing subtle signs of illness or stress in the animals. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, ongoing training, and effective communication with the lead keeper and veterinary staff. Building experience with different species and staying updated on best practices helps ensure the reptiles' welfare and smooth day-to-day operations.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Assistant Reptile Keeper roles typically do not pay $10,000 a month without specialized experience or additional income sources. High-paying jobs without a degree often include roles like sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades such as electricians and plumbers, which may require certifications but not necessarily a college degree. Achieving such income usually involves experience, entrepreneurship, or commission-based work.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Assistant Reptile Keeper roles typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized or high-level positions like executive roles, consultants, or entrepreneurs. Most jobs in animal care or zoology pay hourly or salaried wages, with very few reaching that daily income level without additional factors like bonuses or ownership stakes.

How much do reptile keepers make?

Reptile keepers, including assistant reptile keepers, typically earn between $20,000 and $35,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced keepers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in zoos or private collections.

What jobs pay 400 an hour?

Assistant Reptile Keeper roles typically do not pay $400 an hour; such high rates are usually associated with specialized professions like top-tier consultants, surgeons, or high-level executives. Some freelance or consulting jobs in niche fields can reach this level, but they are rare and often require extensive experience, certifications, or unique expertise. Most reptile-related jobs pay significantly less, often hourly wages or salaries rather than high hourly rates.

What is the difference between Assistant Reptile Keeper vs Reptile Keeper?

AspectAssistant Reptile KeeperReptile Keeper
CertificationsBasic animal care certifications, sometimes relevant reptile handling coursesAdvanced reptile care certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentZoos, aquariums, reptile sanctuariesZoos, reptile farms, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with daily reptile care, habitat maintenance, feedingOverseeing reptile health, habitat design, research projects

The main difference between an Assistant Reptile Keeper and a Reptile Keeper lies in experience and responsibilities. Assistant Reptile Keepers typically support senior staff with routine tasks, while Reptile Keepers have more advanced skills and oversee reptile health and habitat management. Both roles are essential in reptile care environments, but Reptile Keepers usually require more specialized training and experience.

More about Assistant Reptile Keeper jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Reptile Keeper jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Reptile Keeper job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reptile Keeper jobs? The most popular types of Reptile Keeper jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Reptile Keeper jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Reptile Keeper jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Reptile Keeper jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Reptile Keeper jobs are:
Assistant Reptile Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Reptile Keeper job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% As Needed, and 67% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,782 per year, or $22 per hour.
Live Food Propagation Assistant

Live Food Propagation Assistant

Wildlife Conservation Society

New York, NY

$18/hr

Other

Posted 26 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

12th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Department: Herpetology
Title: Live Food Propagation Assistant
Employment Type: Part-Time
Status: Non-Exempt
Grade Level: Hourly
Pay Range: $18.00 per hour
Reports To: Curator, Collections Manager, Senior Keeper, Wild Animal Keepers
Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Hours: 8:00-5:00
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
The Live Food Assistant will assist keepers with the daily tasks associated with the care of the reptile collection in the Reptile House. This position is primarily focused on maintaining the various insect cultures, fish, and rodent colony for the department.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
 
  • Live food propagation
  • Assist in the preparation and distribution of animal diets
  • Assist in cleaning of animal enclosures, including washing dishes, etc.
  • Assist in the maintenance of the Reptile Housework areas

What Wildlife Conservation Society employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply