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Carnivore Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCSU

Carnivore Medicine Clinical Technician

Raleigh, NC

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Job Posting Information Posting Number PG195014SP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Carnivore ... Ensure accurate clinical billing, treatment sheet compliance, and meticulous record-keeping.

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Carnivore Keeper information

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$24

$35

How much do carnivore keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for carnivore keeper in the United States is $24.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a carnivore keeper?

A Carnivore Keeper is a specialized zookeeper responsible for the care, feeding, and enrichment of carnivorous animals, such as lions, tigers, bears, and wolves, typically in a zoo or wildlife park. Their duties include preparing appropriate diets, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and supporting breeding programs. Carnivore Keepers also educate the public about these animals and play a crucial role in conservation efforts. They work closely with veterinarians and other staff to ensure the well-being and safety of both the animals and visitors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a carnivore keeper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Carnivore Keeper, you typically need a degree in zoology, animal science, or a related field, along with hands-on experience working with large carnivores. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and specialized equipment such as restraint and enrichment tools is essential. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, communication skills, and a commitment to teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These qualifications are vital to ensure the safety of both animals and staff, promote animal welfare, and facilitate effective care and education programs.

What are some common challenges carnivore keepers face when working with large predators, and how are they managed?

Carnivore Keepers often encounter challenges such as ensuring safety while working near dangerous animals, maintaining strict protocols for feeding and enclosure cleaning, and monitoring animal health and behavior for signs of stress or illness. To manage these, keepers follow rigorous safety procedures, work in teams, and undergo regular training in animal handling and emergency response. Strong communication with veterinary staff and other animal care professionals is crucial for effective collaboration and animal welfare.
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States with the most job openings for Carnivore Keeper jobs include:

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Carnivore Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Carnivore Keeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,573 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Animal Care - Carnivore Curator

Glen Rose, TX

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Fossil Rim Wildlife Centerexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER invites applicants for the position:
Animal Care - Carnivore Curator
"Fossil Rim only houses four species of carnivores- we do them all in a big way! We have one of the largest collections of cheetahs and black footed cats. We are also involved in the USFWS and SAFE Programs for American Red Wolves and Mexican Gray Wolves, with pretty big collections of those too. So, if you want to really specialize and be immersed in this industry this is the opportunity for you."
Summary/Purpose of Position: This position is responsible for overseeing the care and maintenance of the carnivore collection. This position is responsible for the training and supervision of daily duties of the Animal Care Specialists--Carnivores and interns. This position will maintain and expand Fossil Rim Wildlife Center’s image and awareness through public speaking and publication. And provide enhancement of the visitor experience and learning opportunities through the collection.
Specific/Mandatory Duties: The essential responsibilities of the Animal Care- Carnivore Curator include but are not limited to the following:
  • Provide a healthy, well managed carnivore collection on a daily basis
  • Develop/maintain programs consistent with Recovery Programs and SSP/AMP recommendations and needs.
  • Develop carnivore programs, which Fossil Rim Wildlife Center will benefit from by generating conservation awareness.
  • Oversee all carnivore transfers with input from the Director of Animal Care.
  • Be familiar with and potentially secure loan, licensing, permits, contracts and agreements re: Carnivore Department related activities.
  • Organize and secure all necessary paperwork and records related to the above and in accordance to all regulatory agencies (AZA, USFWS, etc.)
  • Provide professional training opportunities through internships.
  • Provide supervision and oversight of Animal Care Staff in the carnivore department.
  • Supervise staff/interns for the daily care and maintenance of the carnivore collection.
  • Selection, scheduling, and supervision of Animal Care Specialists and interns.
  • Interface with other zoological and related organizations regarding animal management.
  • Assist SSP/AMP Coordinators in planning, securing and coordinating carnivores to be moved into and out of Fossil Rim.
  • Submit purchase authorization requests and receipts as needed.
  • Assist the Animal Health Department with daily treatments as needed.
  • Consult with the Animal Health Department regarding diets, parasite control, and all other health and management issues.
  • Ensure proper record keeping.
  • Supervise and/or assist with animal management plans and actions within the carnivore collection.
  • Coordinate management activities with other area supervisors and the Director of Animal Care.
  • Regular and dependable attendance is required.
  • Be available for after-hours and weekend call out in emergencies.
  • Able to lift and carry 75 pounds.
  • Be able to bend over.
  • Ability to spend up to 2/3 of the workday standing/walking.
  • Ability to work outside all day in weather ranging from extreme heat (+100 degrees) to extreme cold (below freezing) and in wet conditions.
  • Ability to drive and/or operate small maintenance equipment e.g., chainsaw, weed trimmer, mower, hand tools, truck and lawn tractor.
  • Ensure compliance with Employee Handbook, Risk Management Plan, Contingency Plan, and all other safety rules amp; procedures, the company vision, mission and goals.
The secondary responsibilities of the Carnivore Curator include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Assist the Animal Care Department with procedures as needed, consistent with the existing “Team” concept
  • Participate and serve on species or taxon management committees (SSPs, AMPs, TAGs, Cheetah Breeding Center Coalition (BCC).
  • Develop preliminary budgets and be responsible for managing carnivore programs within an approved budget. Responsible for all carnivore hand-rearing, diets, supervision of staff and record keeping of hand reared carnivores.
  • Interface with both the Environmental Engagement and Public Relations Departments as needed.
  • Assist Support Services with facilities design and facilities maintenance.
  • Assist the Director of Animal Care regarding communication with other Fossil Rim Departments, media, and professional contacts.
  • Be on emergency call.
Desired Qualities, Experience and Educational Skills:
  • University Degree in Biology, Zoology, or related field, or 5 years’ experience, with two years of supervisory experience
  • Expertise with carnivores and captive animal management programs
  • ZIMS literate
  • Public speaking experience
  • Familiarity with both Macintosh and PCs and competent with Excel and Microsoft Word
Work Requirements: This position is Essential to Fossil Rim throughout the year and during times when Fossil Rim is closed due to unexpected events, any Essential employee that is scheduled to work must work as scheduled. Usually a 5-day work week, often requiring flexibility and ability to work weekends and holidays. Irregular scheduling in which days may exceed 8hours, and weeks may exceed five days
Please submit your resume today! We are a Non-Profit organization and an equal employment opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected classification under federal and state law.
Fossil Rim is an “at will” and equal opportunity employer. It should be noted that it is company policy to conduct background checks on potential new employees, inclusive of testing for drugs and controlled substance use.

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