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Assistant Zoo Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

fwzoo

Temporary Bird Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

To maintain and care for a variety of animals within the Zoo; to assist veterinary staff as needed ... record keeping Must possess ability to: • Work with a variety of domestic and wild animals • ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

Participates in keeper chats, tours, animal presentations or demonstrations, and/or other public interactions as requested by the Zoo Supervisor. * May assist with departmental research projects ...

fwzoo

Aquatic Ectotherms Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

... to assist veterinary staff as needed; and to perform a variety of activities relative to the ... and zoo visitors Present keeper talks as scheduled • Be respectful of coworkers, maintain a ...

fwzoo

Animal Programs Swing Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

... animals within the Zoo; to assist veterinary staff as needed; and to perform a variety of ... Present keeper talks to park visitors and media as required • Feed live prey and or euthanize ...

fwzoo

Temporary Farm Town Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

To maintain and care for a variety of animals within the Zoo; to assist veterinary staff as needed ... record keeping Must possess ability to: • Work with a variety of domestic and wild animals • ...

Binder Park Zoo

Zookeeper, Full-Time

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic ... Excellent communication, judgment and record keeping skills. * Possessing a strong interest in ...

Nashville Zoo

Lorikeet Keeper

Nashville, TN · On-site

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural ... Respond to questions from the public concerning the animals and exhibits * Assist guests with ...

Nashville Zoo

Lorikeet Keeper

Nashville, TN · On-site

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural ... Respond to questions from the public concerning the animals and exhibits * Assist guests with ...

Nashville Zoo

Lorikeet Keeper

Nashville, TN · On-site

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural ... Respond to questions from the public concerning the animals and exhibits * Assist guests with ...

Peoria Park District

Animal Keeper

Peoria, IL · On-site

$20.96/hr

... * Assist in programming and promotions of the zoo including working with volunteers. May be ... Ability to understand and complete record keeping and paperwork relative to job duties. * Ability ...

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Assistant Zoo Keeper information

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How much do assistant zoo keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant zoo 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 is an assistant zoo keeper?

Assistant zoo keepers are entry-level professionals who help care for animals in zoos and wildlife parks. Their duties typically include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and assisting with health checks or enrichment activities. They often work under the supervision of senior zoo keepers and may interact with visitors or help with educational programs. This role is a great way to gain hands-on experience in animal care and learn more about zoological practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant zoo keeper?

To thrive as an Assistant Zoo Keeper, you need foundational knowledge in animal care, biology, and husbandry, often supported by a relevant degree or vocational training. Familiarity with animal management software, enclosure maintenance tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the well-being of animals, maintaining a safe environment, and supporting efficient zoo operations.

What are some typical challenges an assistant zoo keeper faces when caring for a diverse range of animals?

Assistant Zoo Keepers often encounter the challenge of managing the unique needs of various species, from dietary requirements to specific enrichment activities. Adapting to rapidly changing situations, such as animal health emergencies or unexpected behavior, is a common part of the job. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as keepers work closely with veterinarians and other staff to ensure animal welfare. Staying organized and attentive to detail helps maintain high standards of care across all assigned enclosures.

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

AspectAssistant Zoo KeeperZoo Keeper
CredentialsHigh school diploma, animal care certificationsHigh school diploma, animal care certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentAssists with daily animal care, cleaning, and enrichmentPerforms direct animal care, feeding, and habitat maintenance
ResponsibilitiesSupports zoo keepers, handles routine tasksManages animal health, behavior, and habitat

The main difference between an Assistant Zoo Keeper and a Zoo Keeper lies in their level of responsibility. Assistant Zoo Keepers support zoo keepers with routine tasks and animal care, often requiring less experience. Zoo Keepers take on more complex responsibilities, including direct animal management and health oversight. Both roles are essential for maintaining a healthy zoo environment, with Assistant Zoo Keepers serving as entry-level support positions.

How hard is it to get an assistant zoo keeper job?

Securing an assistant zoo keeper position typically requires relevant education such as a degree in biology, zoology, or animal science, along with hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work. Competition can be high due to the specialized nature of the role, and candidates often need strong animal handling skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and good physical fitness.

What does an assistant zoo keeper do?

An assistant zoo keeper supports the daily care and maintenance of animals, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring animal health. They often assist with habitat enrichment, record keeping, and may need to follow safety protocols and use specialized tools. This role typically requires good physical stamina and knowledge of animal behavior.
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Assistant Zoo Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Zoo Keeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% 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.

Float Keeper B, California Trail

Oakland Zoo

Oakland, CA • On-site

$28.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The application deadline is September 5, 2026.
Application Process
  • Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume. The cover letter should be one page and include details about the applicant's taxa experience, animal training experience, as well as knowledge of safety and emergency response and behavioral husbandry.
  • Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.
  • Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on-site working interview.

Payrate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the payrate for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $28.45 per hour. An offer at this rate will be our best and final compensation offer, in alignment with the Zoo's compensation philosophy.
Position Summary
Animal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical health and psychological well-being of the animals directly under their care. The Float Animal Keeper works across animal strings and has the opportunity to care for a variety of species at California Trail, including large carnivores, bison, and condors. This role will cover strings in the absence of the primary Animal Keeper(s) and will assist the primary keeper with duties and special projects as needed.
Essential Job Duties
  • Use the tools of animal observation, enrichment, training and other management methods to ensure the best possible psychological well-being of the animals in their care
  • Conduct ongoing assessment of their physical and psycho-social needs
  • Design and implement steps to address these needs
  • Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements
  • Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate
  • Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo guests
  • Perform other related duties as required and assigned

Who You Are
  • Minimum of 2 years full time or 4160 hours experience in the care of captive wildlife in the zoo field (preferably at an AZA or GFAS facility). This can include 1 year of unpaid experience.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record
  • Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays
  • Knowledge of the habits and hazards of working with wild, dangerous animals; willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions
  • Medical requirements: negative TB test within the last year, tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years

Bonus if you have...
  • Code red or dangerous animal experience
  • Knowledge and experience in behavioral training theory and practical application
  • Ability to inspire guests in casual (e.g., one on one) and formal (i.e., programs) venues to take action for conservation
  • Bachelor's degree in zoology, biology or a related field or a specialized Associate's degree (ex: Moorpark)

Work Environment - Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.
  • Work in indoor and outdoor environments in various weather conditions, sometimes in or around significant dirt and dust

Physical Considerations- The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e., feed sack) and move a minimum of 120 lbs. (i.e., hay bale)
  • Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.)

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities- May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.
  • Collaboration - builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.
  • Communication - communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
  • Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
  • Organization - strong attention to details and able to build and/or maintain efficient systems
  • Time management - strong capabilities with a demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize multiple commitments
  • Sustainability - oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
  • Passion - wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo's mission and PRIDE values at all times
  • Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

Benefits
Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and Zoo Membership options.
Salary Description
$28.45/hour

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