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Assistant Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zoo Keeper

El Paso, TX · On-site

$37K - $54K/yr

Typical Duties Feed, water and care for exotic zoo animals and clean and maintain animal enclosures ... Report animal illness or injury to appropriate staff. Assist veterinary staff with administering ...

They also assist with the development and writing of standard operating procedures and department policies and procedures. QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR ZOOKEEPER AT JBZ * Bachelors degree in life ...

PT Zookeeper - BIRDS

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12947 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Use positive reinforcement training to assist with husbandry tasks and to maintain a safe working ...

PT Zookeeper - Birds

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12947 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Use positive reinforcement training to assist with husbandry tasks and to maintain a safe working ...

Zoo Job ID: 12947 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Use positive reinforcement training to assist with husbandry tasks and to maintain a safe working ...

Seasonal - Guest Service Attendant

Houston, TX · On-site

$12.75 - $17/hr

Guest Service Attendants assist Zoo Rangers with guests on grounds, giraffe feeding entrance and platform in addition to assisting with special events. During seasonal hours of operation, Guest ...

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Assistant zookeeper information

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How much do assistant zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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 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 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.

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, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. 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.

Full-Time Zookeeper at Aggieland Safari -TX

Aggieland Safari -TX

Bryan, TX • On-site

$12 - $13/hr

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

*** Please submit your application online via Homebase, Indeed, or ZipRecruiter - Applications submitted through other websites may not be received by our team! ***


Job description:

Aggieland Safari in Bryan, TX is looking for Part-Time and/or Full-Time Zookeepers to join our team. Our 250+ acre property resides at 18075 FM 974 and houses 600+ animals. Our ideal candidate is focused, hardworking, adaptable, and passionate.


This position is to primarily assist in our Adventure Zoo, which consists of a variety of exotic mammals, small carnivores, large and small exotic hoofstock, birds, and reptiles. Adventure Zoo animal care staff have the unique opportunity to work with most or all species housed in this section of our park, allowing for a diverse experience. This role will encompass all aspects of routine daily animal care and exhibit upkeep. All animal care staff should also have strong interpersonal and communication skills as engaging with guests to answer questions and deliver educational information pertaining to zoo animals and conservation is a core part of this role.

Occasionally, select animal care staff also participate in our educational programs by hosting ambassador animal encounters, delivering keeper chats, and/or hosting guided tours. Zookeepers also contribute equally to park upkeep and perform various custodial duties across the park as part of a team effort to deliver exceptional customer experiences. All Aggieland Safari team members are required to undergo training in Guest Services (retail) and Park Services (custodial) as we place a strong emphasis on cross-training and team collaboration!


Primary routine duties of this role include:

  • Proving daily care to all assigned enclosures/animals.
  • Feeding, watering, and cleaning enclosures.
  • Performing visual exams to monitor health of individual animals
  • Administering medications and completing associated log forms
  • Completing daily observation records
  • Commissary / diet preparation
  • Exhibit construction/furnishing
  • Preparing and delivering enrichment
  • Performing maintenance to animal enclosures as needed (fence repair, erosion control, mowing/weed-eating, etc).
  • Engaging with zoo visitors to deliver an exceptional guest experience via friendly interaction and presentation of educational information.
  • Contributing to park-wide custodial duties.



Required qualifications / experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Bachelor’s degree in related field strongly preferred.
  • At least 18 years of age or older.
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Must have current, valid Driver License.
  • Able to work a minimum of 20 hours a week.
  • Available to work at least 4 weekend days (Saturday/Sunday) per month.
  • One or more years in a progressive animal care role at a zoological facility, exotic animal operation, or other similar venue. Alternatively, experience in the veterinary field is also highly desired. (Volunteer experience may substitute in some instances.)
  • Strong prior experience working directly with animals, especially in a zookeeping / husbandry-focused role.
  • Excellent interpersonal & communication abilities.



Preferred/desired experience:

  • Experience with record keeping practices.
  • Knowledge of animal behavior, welfare, and/or training.
  • Current CPR/FA Certification or ability to obtain.
  • Available to work most/every Saturday and/or Sunday


_________________________________________________________________



Eligible applicants must have open availability and understand that they are expected to work most weekends and holidays. Shifts are scheduled between the hours of 8am and 6pm. Eligible applicants should also be able to work in all weather conditions, as our facility consists of mostly outdoor exhibits and be able to lift to 50 pounds regularly.


Job Type: Part-time

Average Starting Pay: $12.00+ per hour (based upon prior experience)

Working interview optional, but highly encouraged


Benefits:

  • Employee discount
  • Flexible schedule

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Bryan, TX 77808: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)



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