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Assistant Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tryfacta, Inc.

Assistant Zookeeper II

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Assistant Zookeeper II (Primates) Location: ABQ BioPark Albuquerque, NM, 87102 Duration: 24 Months Work Schedule: Generally, five days on, two days off, from 8 am to 5 pm. Will work weekends ...

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Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

May assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for the Zoo projects. * Exhibits ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper - Primates

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

Zookeeper Position at Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium Join our Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium zookeeper ... Must be able to shoot rifles, shotguns and capture dart guns as required and/or directed to assist ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

Job Summary Zookeepers are responsible for the specialized work involving all the health and ... Must be able to shoot rifles, shotguns and capture dart guns as required and/or directed to assist ...

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 and domestic animals. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * Four year related degree OR a two year related degree ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

Job Summary Zookeepers are responsible for the specialized work involving all the health and ... Must be able to shoot rifles, shotguns and capture dart guns as required and/or directed to assist ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper - Primates

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

Join our Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium zookeeper team! Zookeepers are responsible for the ... Must be able to shoot rifles, shotguns and capture dart guns as required and/or directed to assist ...

Audubon Institute

Zookeeper- Elephants

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Zookeeper- Elephants Department: Animal Reports To: Curator Location: Audubon Zoo FLSA Status: Non ... Will assist in training new personnel in methods of animal care consistent with policies and ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

May assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for the Zoo projects. * Exhibits ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper - Primates

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

Join our Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium zookeeper team! Zookeepers are responsible for the ... Must be able to shoot rifles, shotguns and capture dart guns as required and/or directed to assist ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX

May assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for the Zoo projects. * Exhibits ...

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How much do assistant zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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 is an assistant zookeeper?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant zookeeper?

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 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.

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Assistant zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,767 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Assistant Zookeeper II

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Tryfacta, Inc.
See more jobs at Tryfacta, Inc.external

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

About US:
Tryfacta is a leading, nationally renowned Workforce Management Solution provider for private &public sector firms across the US. We specialize in Healthcare, IT, Business Support, and Professional & Craft/Light Industrial ecosystems.
Founded in March 1996, we have a presence in all 50 States. Tryfacta has Ranked number 1 as one of the fastest-growing companies by Inc. Magazine (Inc. 5000)!
Tryfacta is certified by the Joint Commission for Healthcare Staffing Services & has numerous ISO Certifications that capture our commitment to continuous improvement.
Job Summary:
Tryfacta is seeking a Assistant Zookeeper II (Primates) for our client in Albuquerque, 87102. This is a temporary contract assignment. If you meet the qualifications listed below and are interested, please Apply Now!
Position Title: Assistant Zookeeper II (Primates)
Location: ABQ BioPark Albuquerque, NM, 87102
Duration: 24 Months
Work Schedule: Generally, five days on, two days off, from 8 am to 5 pm. Will work weekends; occasional holiday and evening work may be required. May not exceed 40 hours per week
The Assistant Zookeeper's duties may include, but are not limited to:
  • Assist zookeepers in the day-to-day care of the primates
  • Feed and water animals as directed
  • Prepare diets for animals
  • Clean and maintain assigned animal areas and workspaces as directed and according to established BioPark, AZA, and USDA guidelines
  • Help maintain the cleanliness of assigned areas
  • Observe and assist with select animal training sessions
A successful Assistant Zookeeper will:
  • Be familiar with the purpose and importance of zoos and aquariums
  • Animal-handling experience is required.
  • Prioritize safety
  • Understand, respect, and follow all protocols
  • Be able to work efficiently and quickly adapt to change during the workday
  • Have a friendly and open personality and enjoy working with a diverse group of individuals
  • Be able to communicate, receive, and adapt to constructive feedback
  • Be confident working independently as well as in a fast-paced team environment
  • Be motivated, hard-working, and dependable
  • Be comfortable working outdoors for several hours a day in variable weather conditions
Qualifications:
  • Candidates must pass a security background check and tuberculosis test to be hired
  • Applicants must be 18 years or older, have a high school diploma, and be physically able to lift or move up to 50 pounds (feed bags, animal waste, and equipment)
  • Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation (standing, walking, reaching, bending, squatting, kneeling for prolonged periods; heavy, moderate, or light lifting, pulling, and pushing)
  • Applicants must be able to work around a variety of animals, the public, extreme heat, noise, dust, and insects in inclement weather conditions
  • Prior animal care experience is preferred

Tryfacta is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

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