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How much do assistant zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 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.

How hard is it to get a zoo keeper job?

Securing an assistant zookeeper position typically requires relevant education or experience in animal care, along with strong physical stamina and teamwork skills. Competition can be high, and candidates often need to demonstrate knowledge of animal behavior and safety protocols. Having certifications such as first aid or animal handling can improve chances of employment.

What zoo jobs are entry level?

Entry-level zoo jobs for assistant zookeepers typically include positions such as zoo attendant, animal care assistant, or volunteer roles that involve supporting animal husbandry and habitat maintenance. These roles often require basic animal handling skills, a high school diploma, and a willingness to work outdoors and on a flexible schedule.

Can you be a vet assistant zookeeper?

A zookeeper assistant typically focuses on animal care, habitat maintenance, and supporting zookeepers, while a vet assistant helps veterinarians with medical procedures and animal health. These roles require different training and certifications; being both may involve additional qualifications in veterinary assisting. Combining these roles is possible but usually requires specialized education and experience in both areas.

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 by feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with habitat maintenance. They often need knowledge of animal behavior and safety procedures, and may work early mornings, weekends, or holidays. The role helps ensure the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of the zoo or wildlife facility.
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Assistant zookeeper jobs near you
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.
Public Events Assistant

Public Events Assistant

Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Indianapolis Zoo rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy bringing memorable events to life? At the Indianapolis Zoo, our mission is to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world, and every event we host helps connect guests with wildlife in meaningful and memorable ways. We're seeking a Public Events Assistant who is energized by organization, teamwork, and creating exceptional guest experiences to support the planning, coordination, and execution of signature events including ZooBoo, Christmas at the Zoo, Animals and All That Jazz, xZOOberance, and more.
About the Role
The Public Events Assistant provides administrative and operational support to the Public Events team while helping ensure Zoo events are executed seamlessly from setup through event completion. This position plays an important role in coordinating event logistics, maintaining event resources, and serving as a key point of contact during activations. This is a full-time position, working 40 hours per week, with evenings, weekends, and holidays required based on the event schedule.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide day-to-day administrative support to the Public Events team.
  • Assist with the planning, setup, execution, and breakdown of Zoo events and special programs.
  • Help maintain and organize inventory of event materials, equipment, and assets.
  • Serve as a point of contact during event activations, assisting with operational needs and problem-solving.
  • Coordinate and communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, vendors, and guests to ensure successful event execution.
  • Support multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and adapting to changing priorities.

What We're Looking For
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree, preferably in Arts Administration, Marketing, or Tourism/Hospitality from an accredited institution preferred.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • Ability to anticipate event needs and respond quickly in a dynamic environment.
  • Presentation or public speaking experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the event schedule.

Why Join Us?
At the Indianapolis Zoo, we are one team working together to accomplish remarkable things. We support each other, care for our animals and guests, and stay connected to the community we serve. This role plays a key part in bringing unforgettable experiences to life while working alongside passionate professionals dedicated to our mission. If you enjoy creating memorable moments, collaborating with others, and working in an exciting, ever-changing environment, we'd love to have you on our team.
Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

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