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Assistant Zoo Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oglebay

Oglebay Good Zoo Animal Keeper 2

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Supervises and assigns work to zoo volunteers and interns scheduled in keeper's area of ... may give tours to assist with training classes and to zoo guests. Follows written and oral ...

Santa Barbara Zoo

Animal Keeper

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$23.90 - $26.30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking a full-time Animal Keeper for our Animal Care and Health team. If ... Associates with guests to assist and share information * Responds to all guest inquiries ...

fwzoo

Temporary Mammal Keeper

Fort Worth, TX

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 • ...

fwzoo

Temporary Bird Keeper

Fort Worth, TX

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

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 • ...

Chattanooga Zoo

Nutrition Keeper

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Nutrition Keeper Chattanooga Zoo is looking for a dedicated Nutrition Keeper. This position is ... Prepare animal diets in accordance with what is listed in the Diet Preparation Sheet * Assist ACS ...

Chattanooga Zoo

Nutrition Keeper

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15/hr

Chattanooga Zoo is looking for a dedicated Nutrition Keeper, this position is responsible for the ... Prepare animal diets in accordance with what is listed in the Diet Preparation Sheet * Assist ACS ...

Chattanooga Zoo

Nutrition Keeper

Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga Zoo is looking for a dedicated Nutrition Keeper, this position is responsible for the ... Prepare animal diets in accordance with what is listed in the Diet Preparation Sheet * Assist ACS ...

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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Assistant Zoo Keeper information

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How much do assistant zoo keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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.

Can I get a job at the zoo with no experience?

Assistant zoo keeper positions typically require some related experience or education in animal care, but entry-level roles may be available for candidates with strong interest and willingness to learn. Volunteering or internships can help build relevant skills and improve chances of employment. Certifications in animal handling or safety can also be beneficial for applicants with limited experience.

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.

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 moderate to high, and candidates often need strong animal handling skills, physical stamina, and knowledge of safety protocols to be considered for the role.

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.
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The most popular types of Zoo Keeper jobs are:

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What states have the most Assistant Zoo Keeper jobs?

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The top searched job categories for Assistant Zoo Keeper jobs are:

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, 76% Full Time, 20% 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.

Oglebay Good Zoo Animal Keeper 2

Oglebay

Wheeling, WV • On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Oglebay rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 57 rated amusements

Job description

SUMMARY

Provides for the physical and psychological well-being of zoo animals and enclosures; assists with interpreting the collection to visitors.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Cleans and maintains animal habitats, service areas, and guest areas around and adjacent to habitats using chemical agents and special tools to assure the health and safety of the animals.

Prepares and distributes animal diets according to approved guidelines provided by the curator of animals.

Performs regular maintenance to animal habitats by collecting, installing and maintaining furnishings and substrata to maximize the guest viewing of the animal and to depict its natural environment.

Maintains horticulture and grounds in and around animal habitats using tools such as lawn mowers, weedeaters, sprinklers, and blowers.

Monitors and records health of animals with observation and periodic physical exams, monitors eating habits, behaviors and reproductive patterns.

Observes and interprets normal and abnormal behaviors, health status, and food consumption; advises managers of problems or concerns.

Supervises and assigns work to zoo volunteers and interns scheduled in keeper’s area of responsibility; assists in training and evaluation of volunteers.

Maintains comprehensive records, reports, and training plans; handles routine correspondence from zoo colleagues and the public; maintains food, supply, and equipment inventory.

Reviews available library resources and develops a working knowledge of the in-situ and ex-situ biology of all species in assigned areas.

Conducts fecal, water chemistry and minor blood tests and other laboratory procedures.

Assists zoo veterinarians in the evaluation, examination and treatment of zoo animals; administers medications and provides first aid to injured zoo animals or wildlife until veterinary help arrives.

Assists other park managers with resident wildlife problems within the resort, may include trapping, relocation or euthanasia of sick or nuisance wildlife in accordance with state & federal laws and AVMA and AZA guidelines.

Monitors and reports physical plant problems and fire/safety hazards; trained in CPR, first aid and crisis response, may discharge pepper spray or firearms.

Provides for the psychological well-being of the animal collection by practicing, documenting and evaluating enrichment; recognizes and addresses abnormal or stereotypical behaviors; applies the principles of operant conditioning to facilitate animal husbandry and veterinary procedures; and completes welfare assessments for the species in their care.

Possesses sufficient strength, delicacy, agility and coordination to restrain, capture and/or transfer neonates, fragile or injured animals, or large and strong animals.

May hand rear neonates at home and/or return to the zoo at night to care for sick or newborn animals.

Provides informational, promotional and educational programs to guests and volunteers; may give tours to assist with training classes and to zoo guests.

Follows written and oral instructions.

Adheres to the code of professional ethics of the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Interact with guests with a cheerful and positive attitude, solve guest concerns in a proper manner, and maintain harmonious working relationships with fellow employees.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from four-year college or university; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education experience.


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