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Entry Level Zoo Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Zoo Curator information

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$25.5K

$72.6K

$119.5K

How much do entry level zoo curator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level zoo curator in the United States is $72,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Zoo Curator vs Entry Level Zoo Keeper?

AspectEntry Level Zoo CuratorEntry Level Zoo Keeper
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or related field; some positions may prefer internshipsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentOffice setting with some time in animal enclosures; involved in planning and managementHands-on animal care in exhibits, enclosures, and daily maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, aquariums, wildlife parks; involved in curation, exhibit planning, and conservationZoos, aquariums; focused on daily animal care and habitat maintenance

In summary, Entry Level Zoo Curators typically have a background in biology and focus on planning, management, and conservation efforts, while Entry Level Zoo Keepers are primarily responsible for daily animal care and habitat maintenance. Both roles are essential in zoo operations but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

Can I get a job at the zoo with no experience?

Entry level zoo curator positions typically require some related education or experience, such as coursework in biology or animal management, but some entry-level roles may be available to candidates with minimal experience if they demonstrate strong interest and willingness to learn. Gaining volunteer experience or internships can improve chances of securing such roles. Basic knowledge of animal care and familiarity with zoo operations are beneficial for entry-level applicants.

How to become an entry level zoo curator?

To become an entry-level zoo curator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or a related field, along with relevant experience such as internships or volunteer work at zoos or aquariums. Strong organizational, communication, and animal management skills are also important, and some positions may require knowledge of conservation practices or specific animal care techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Curator jobs?

The most popular types of Zoo Curator jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Zoo Curator jobs?

For Entry Level Zoo Curator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Entry Level Zoo Curator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Zoo Curator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,627 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Animal Keeper I - CALM (Open)

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

Kern County Superintendent of Schools
Education Programs Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Kern County Superintendent of Schoolsexternal

$3.5K/mo

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Summary
Under the direct supervision of the Curator of Animals, is responsible the daily husbandry and care of the animal collection, monitoring animal health, keeping accurate records, maintaining the condition of animal enclosures, and interaction with zoo visitors including presenting in wildlife talks.
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Copy of Transcript (College coursework in psychology, biology, or zoology may be substituted for animal experience.)

Comments and Other Information
IMPORTANT COMMENTS:
• Current employees: Please email Anisa Hernandez at ahernandez@kern.org with any questions regarding the required documents.
• After the filing deadline, all candidates will be notified by email if they do or do not qualify to take the written exam.
• Candidates must achieve 70% on the written examination to qualify for an oral interview. Examinations will be weighted 30% for written and 70% for oral. Candidates must obtain a composite score of 70% or better to qualify for the eligibility list. For entry-level positions, veterans shall be allowed an additional credit of five points to their composite score. A copy of your DD-214 must be submitted at the time of application to receive veteran's credit.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Passage of a pre-employment medical assessment and current tetanus shot. Some positions may require proof of privately owned automobile insurance and the possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle operator's license. Fingerprint clearance by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the California Department of Justice is a condition of appointment after all other required job conditions have been met. Must present verification of completion of Child Abuse Mandated Reporter training or obtain verification within six (6) weeks of hire and annually thereafter, as required by the California Child Abuse Neglect Reporting Act. For entry-level positions, veterans shall be allowed an additional credit of five points to their composite score. A copy of your DD-214 must be submitted at the time of application to receive veteran's credit. This position has a probationary period of six months or 130 days in paid service, whichever is longer.
"The Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or parental status or association with a person or a group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics".

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