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Assistant Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seasonal Zookeeper Aide

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$11 - $13/hr

... assist with planting of landscape materials; Assists in providing zoo visitors informational ... promotional, and educational opportunities and other duties as required. What you will need for ...

Zoo Keeper (Primates)

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Zookeeper-Primates Department: Animal Reports To: Assistant Curator of Section working Location: Audubon Zoo General Summary: This position is a Zookeeper at the Audubon Zoo. The position will ...

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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.

Clinical Laboratory Assistant - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego, CA

$17.60 - $19.47/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors - the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park - giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Clinical Laboratory Assistant performs a variety of duties to assist laboratory operations. This position reports to the Laboratory Manager or Associate Director of Clinical Laboratory Services.
WHAT YOU WILL DO

  • Receive, log, prepare, and may analyze wildlife blood, feces, urine and fluid samples.
  • Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies, including restocking supplies.
  • Prepare and ship blood, feces, urine and fluid samples to outside laboratories or researchers.
  • Maintain paper and electronic filing systems including receiving send out results.
  • Assist the Laboratory Technician with laboratory duties as needed.
  • Coordinate Laboratory Activities as needed.


WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The Clinical Laboratory Assistant will primarily work at the Safari Park in Escondido, CA with occasional shifts at the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, CA.

  • JOB EXPERIENCE
    • At least one year of experience in a clinical or biological research laboratory, or related training or coursework required.

  • EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
    • Associate degree two-year Technical Degree or similar required.
    • Medical Laboratory Technician - Certified from ASCP Registered Veterinary Technician preferred.
    • Certified Veterinary Technician - NAVTA Medical Lab Technician preferred.

  • SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
    • Knowledge of standard laboratory equipment required.
    • Ability to maintain clear and concise laboratory documentation required.
    • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing required.
    • Ability to use moderately complex computer systems required.
    • Ability to work effectively with others required.
    • Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks required.
    • Knowledge and ability to handle biohazardous materials and potentially zoonotic samples required.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

  • Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Family Passes
  • Complimentary Tickets
  • Local and In-House Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

  • Location: San Diego, CA
  • Position Type: Hourly, Part-Time, Non-Exempt Position
  • Hourly Rate: $17.60 to $19.47

Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.

If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.


Be an ally for wildlife by joining our team!

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we thrive on celebrating our differences. Diversity is vital for the benefit of our team members, our guests, our community, and our wildlife.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.