Entry Level Animal Enrichment information
See salary details
$12.98 - $14.64
23% of jobs
$14.98 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.64 - $16.30
12% of jobs
$16.30 - $17.96
14% of jobs
The median wage is $18.12 / hr.
$17.96 - $19.62
17% of jobs
$19.62 - $21.28
9% of jobs
$21.53 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$21.28 - $22.95
5% of jobs
$22.95 - $24.61
1% of jobs
$24.61 - $26.27
4% of jobs
$26.27 - $27.93
8% of jobs
$27.93 - $29.59
4% of jobs
$29.59 - $31.25
3% of jobs
How much do entry level animal enrichment jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal enrichment in the United States is $20.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Entry level animal enrichment jobs involve providing stimulating activities, environments, and objects to animals in settings such as zoos, shelters, or research facilities. The goal is to promote the animals’ physical and mental well-being by encouraging natural behaviors and preventing boredom or stress. Tasks may include preparing enrichment items, observing animal responses, and assisting with daily animal care. These positions often serve as a starting point for careers in animal care or zookeeping.
To thrive in Entry Level Animal Enrichment, you need a basic understanding of animal behavior, observation skills, and often a high school diploma or coursework in animal science. Familiarity with enrichment tools, safe handling equipment, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Strong soft skills include creativity, patience, and effective communication to design engaging activities and work with both animals and team members. These abilities are crucial for promoting animal well-being, safety, and effective enrichment programs in animal care settings.
Entry-level animal enrichment staff often encounter challenges such as understanding the unique behavioral needs of different species, adapting enrichment activities to individual animals, and working within the guidelines set by veterinarians and supervisors. It's important to be observant, creative, and willing to learn from more experienced team members. Open communication with animal care staff and regularly reviewing animal responses to enrichment activities can help ensure the well-being of the animals while allowing you to grow in your role.
More about Entry Level Animal Enrichment jobs What cities are hiring for Entry Level Animal Enrichment jobs?
Cities with the most Entry Level Animal Enrichment job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Enrichment jobs?
The most popular types of Animal Enrichment jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Enrichment jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Enrichment jobs are:
