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Assistant Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Typical Duties Assist in planning, directing, and reviewing the activities and operations of the El Paso Zoo. Involves: overseeing, planning, and directing department divisions. Direct, recommend ...

The Keeper/Veterinary Assistant 1 works with the zoo's Attending Veterinarian and the Veterinary Program and Records Manager to provide general animal care to a wide variety of collection animals ...

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Assistant Zookeeper information

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How much do assistant zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant zookeeper in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Assistant zookeepers typically do not earn $10,000 a month without advanced experience or specialized skills. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles like sales managers, real estate brokers, or certain skilled trades such as electricians or commercial pilots, which may require certifications or licenses. These positions usually demand significant experience, strong performance, or specific technical training.

How much does a zookeeper assistant make?

A zookeeper assistant typically earns between $25,000 and $35,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the facility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those working in larger zoos can earn higher wages. Certifications in animal care and related skills can also influence salary levels.

What is an Assistant Zookeeper job?

An Assistant Zookeeper helps care for animals in a zoo by preparing food, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and assisting with basic healthcare. They may also help with visitor education and enrichment activities for the animals. The role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and a passion for animal welfare. Assistant Zookeepers often work under the supervision of senior zookeepers and veterinarians to ensure the animals' well-being.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level roles such as specialized surgeons, corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. Certain freelance or consulting positions in finance, law, or technology may also reach this level with significant experience and client base. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or extensive industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Assistant Zookeeper position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Zookeeper, you need a foundational knowledge of animal care, husbandry practices, and basic biology, often backed by a relevant degree or animal care experience. Familiarity with animal management software, safety equipment, and potential certifications in animal handling or first aid is highly valued. Strong observational skills, effective communication, teamwork, and a passion for animal welfare make candidates stand out. These skills are vital to ensure animal health, maintain safe and orderly zoo operations, and support the overall mission of wildlife conservation and education.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Zookeepers and how can they be managed?

Assistant Zookeepers often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in varying weather conditions, physically demanding tasks like cleaning enclosures or lifting feed, and managing the health and stress of diverse animal species. Effective time management and following strict safety protocols are essential to address these challenges. Additionally, clear communication and collaboration with senior zookeepers, veterinarians, and maintenance staff help ensure animal well-being and smooth zoo operations. Being proactive in learning and adapting to each species’ unique needs also contributes to job success and satisfaction in this dynamic role.

What does a zookeeper assistant do?

A zookeeper assistant supports zookeepers in caring for animals by cleaning enclosures, preparing food, monitoring animal health, and assisting with enrichment activities. They often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may need knowledge of safety procedures and animal behavior. This role typically requires physical stamina and attention to detail.
More about Assistant Zookeeper jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Zookeeper jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Zookeeper job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs? The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Zookeeper jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Zookeeper jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,767 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Zoo Assistant Director

Zoo Assistant Director

City of El Paso

El Paso, TX • On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


City Of El Paso (Texas) rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Requirements MOS Codes: None Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree or higher in Zoo Management, Veterinary Medicine, Business or Public Administration, or a related field, and six (6) years of zoological operations experience, including four (4) years of managerial experience. Licenses and Certificates: Valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License or equivalent from another state by the date of appointment. General Purpose Under general direction, plan, organize, and assist in the daily management of El Paso Zoo operations, projects, and activities.

Typical Duties Assist in planning, directing, and reviewing the activities and operations of the El Paso Zoo. Involves: overseeing, planning, and directing department divisions. Direct, recommend, and establish operational plans to achieve departmental attendance and per capita targets.

Work with zoo divisions to maintain a high-quality visitor experience. Plan, organize, and manage the coordination of day-to-day projects and activities, both directly and through subordinate supervisors. Recommend, implement, and administer policies and procedures.

Direct, oversee, and participate in the development of the department work plan. Analyze department personnel, equipment, procedures, plans, and programs. Review and recommend improvements, automation, or streamlining of work activities.

Plan, design, implement, and review the department's short and long-term goals, objectives, and priorities. Involves: Collect and analyze data. Prepare a variety of reports regarding division activities, accomplishments, and goals.

Design, establish, and maintain the organizational structure and staffing to effectively accomplish goals and objectives. Monitor department operations and activities to ensure successful implementation of City and department objectives. Conduct research and assess opportunities for improving operations such as new programs, exhibits, or technology development.

Analyze organization and community needs. Evaluate and review industry trends and statistics. Make recommendations for department improvements and opportunities.

Participate in the zoo department long-term planning efforts and capital improvement plans. Monitor and apply fiscal controls to receipt and expenditure of funds. Estimate required funds for the use of personnel, facilities, equipment, materials and supplies.

Participate in the preparation of the annual budget. Involves: Assist in the development and monitoring of budget. Work with appropriate personnel to develop, recommend, and define operating and financial objectives.

Direct, recommend, and implement preparation of operating budgets and controls. Prepare projections of resources necessary to meet current and future development needs. Supervise assigned personnel.

Involves: Schedule, assign, and check work. Appraise employee performance and review evaluations by subordinate supervisors. Provide for training and development.

Enforce personnel rules and regulations and work behavior standards firmly and impartially. Counsel, motivate, and maintain harmony. Interview applicants and recommend hiring, termination, transfers, discipline, and other employee status changes.

Represent the department as required. Involves: Interact with a variety of department heads, managers, supervisors, employees, and the public to provide and gather accurate information. Attend and participate in professional groups and committees.

Prepare and deliver presentations at City Council, Civil Service Commission, and other boards, commissions, and community organizations. Serve as the Director during absences. General Information To view complete job specification, click here.

Note: This is an unclassified contract position. Note: Applicants with a foreign degree or diploma must have all documents translated and evaluated by an agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) prior to submitting them to the Human Resources Department. Please visit www.naces.org/members for more information

Note: Applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. This position will close when a preset number of qualified applications have been received. A resume and/or other documents will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.

Comments such as "See resume" are not acceptable and will result in the application being considered incomplete. To qualify for this position, the required education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be clearly stated on your application's employment history. We do not use any information on your resume to review if you meet the minimum qualifications for this position.

Failure to fully detail all experience and job duties in the application, or copying/pasting directly from the job specification, or responses referring to your resume will eliminate you from consideration for the position.


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