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Entry Level Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

On Call Zoologist

Dallas, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position, on-call position in animal care, following established ... Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interaction with zoo guests via ...

Zoologist - WOA Hoofstock

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position in animal care, following established ... tours for zoo guests. SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Provide overall daily care of ...

Bird Zoologist - Temporary

Dallas, TX · On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Description JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position in animal care, following established ... for zoo guests. Representative species cared for by the Bird team include Whooping cranes ...

On Call Zoologist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position, on-call position in animal care, following ... Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interaction with zoo guests via ...

$25 - $45/hr

Our clientele includes the New York Botanical Gardens, The Bronx Zoo and Fordham University. Our ... We are hiring all year long for entry-level candidates, as well as highly skilled experts to join ...

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Sales Associate

Lake City, FL · Remote

$45K - $55K/yr

... Zoo. We're American-made, Class A fire-rated (ASTM E108), and built to outlast natural thatch by decades. The Role This is an entry-level commercial sales role with a real career path and we will ...

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This is an entry-level position--no prior 3D printing experience is required. The ideal candidate ... zoos, aquariums and other retailers.

Be Seen First

This is an entry-level position--no prior 3D printing experience is required. The ideal candidate ... zoos, aquariums and other retailers.

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Entry Level Zoo information

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$17K

$40.7K

$66.5K

How much do entry level zoo jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level zoo in the United States is $40,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $47,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level zoo jobs?

Entry level zoo jobs are positions that require little to no previous experience working in a zoo or with animals. These roles often include animal care attendants, zookeepers’ assistants, or groundskeepers, and focus on basic animal care, cleaning enclosures, preparing food, and assisting with educational programs. Entry level jobs provide hands-on training and are a great way to start a career in animal care or zoology. Most of these positions require at least a high school diploma, and some may prefer candidates with volunteer experience or coursework in biology or animal science.

What zoo jobs are entry level?

Entry-level zoo jobs typically include positions such as zoo attendant, animal care assistant, or visitor services associate. These roles often require basic animal handling skills, good communication, and a high school diploma or equivalent; some may also require training or certifications in animal care or safety. They provide opportunities to gain experience in animal husbandry and zoo operations.

Can you work at a zoo without experience?

Entry level zoo positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. However, having a background in animal care, biology, or related fields can be beneficial and may improve chances of hiring. Many entry roles focus on supporting staff and learning on the job, making them accessible to applicants without previous zoo experience.

What are the primary daily responsibilities for someone in an entry-level zoo position?

In an entry-level zoo role, you can expect to assist with the care and feeding of animals, maintain clean and safe enclosures, and support senior zookeepers with routine tasks. You'll also help monitor animal behaviors, prepare diets, and may occasionally interact with visitors to answer basic questions about the animals. Collaboration with veterinary staff and fellow team members is common, and attention to detail is essential to ensure animal welfare and a smooth operation.

Is it hard to get hired at the zoo?

Getting hired for an entry-level zoo position can be competitive, as many applicants seek these roles. Candidates often need relevant experience, such as volunteering or internships, and demonstrate a passion for animal care and conservation. Strong communication skills and a willingness to work flexible hours also improve chances of employment.

What qualifications do you need to work at the zoo?

Entry level zoo positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include animal care, teamwork, and communication; some roles may benefit from prior experience or certifications in animal handling or safety training. A passion for animals and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Zookeeper, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Zookeeper, you need a background in animal science or biology, basic animal care knowledge, and often a relevant degree or experience with animals. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding protocols, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure animal well-being, support daily operations, and foster a safe environment for both animals and staff.
More about Entry Level Zoo jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Zoo jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Zoo job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs? The most popular types of Zoo jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Zoo jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Zoo jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Zoo jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Zoo job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,722 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Guest Relations Team Member- Part Time

Guest Relations Team Member- Part Time

Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$13/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 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 34 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Put the FUN back into work and join our Guest Relations Team! From selling tickets for parking, rides, and general admission, to providing exemplary customer service to our guests, our part-time variable hourly (29 hours or less per week) Guest Relations Team Members are essential to our guest's experience.
Ideal candidates are committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Though this position is not responsible for animal care, our Guest Relations team is vital to the Zoo's operations. By providing above and beyond customer service, each team member impacts our guest's overall experience. A cooperative and team-oriented personality, along with a friendly and courteous attitude is highly desirable. Though this is an entry level position, any experience working in customer service is a plus! Pay rate for this exciting position is $13.00/ hr.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Responsible for working in the following areas- ride ticket booths selling tickets for our attractions and animal feeds, the rental area, collecting parking fees, monitoring butterfly doors in the conservatory, driving the staff shuttle, being an attendant/ greeter at the Shark Touch Tank, Dolphin presentation greeter, South Lot, exit cart, and greet for special events.
  • Ensures overall visitor satisfaction.
  • Performs a wide range of tasks including, but not limited to, sales, register operations, crowd control, grounds maintenance, and possible attractions duties.
  • Creates value for each and every guest by suggestive selling.
  • Must enjoy working as a team but be able to work independently as well.

Why should you apply?
  • Free admission for employees with the option of bringing up to four (4) family members/ friends.
  • Flexible scheduling (Student & Retiree Friendly).
  • Complimentary Zoo passes.
  • Free admission and discounts to other downtown culture venues such as the Children's Museum, Indiana Beach Amusement Park, Holiday World & Splashin' Safari, and so much more!
  • Complimentary parking for downtown events and access to local colleges.
  • Unique, FUN working environment. How many people can say they are able to visit a tiger or a red panda on their lunch break?

To apply:
  • Interested candidates must complete an online application.
  • Attach a resumé and cover letter to your application to increase your chances!

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.

What Indianapolis Zoo employees say

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