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Entry Level Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New York Aquarium

HR Records Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$20/hr

On site at the Bronx Zoo and hybrid POSITION TYPE : Seasonal (June-August 2026) COMPENSATION: $20 ... This is an entry-level position perfect for someone who loves organization and structure. MAJOR ...

Emerald Tree Care & Shrub

$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 ...

Inner Path LLC

Be Seen First

3D Printer Technician (Bambu Systems)

Park Fletcher, IN · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

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

ExplorUS Corporate

Junior Writer

Overland Park, KS

This entry-level role assists with multiple proposals at once and contributes to producing accurate ... Zoos, Museums or Aquariums are highly encouraged to apply! Responsibilities: * Review RFPs ...

Inner Path LLC

Be Seen First

3D Printer Technician (Bambu Systems)

Park Fletcher, IN · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

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

Emerald Tree Care & Shrub

Tree Climber

Stamford, CT · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

We are hiring all year long for entry-level candidates, as well as highly skilled experts to join ... The Bronx Zoo, Fordham University as well as some of the most beautiful estates in NY and CT.

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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 Jun 28, 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.

Can you work at a zoo without experience?

Entry level zoo positions often do not require prior experience, as they typically involve on-the-job training for tasks like animal care, cleaning, and customer service. However, having related skills, such as a background in biology or volunteering experience, can improve your chances of being hired. Certifications like first aid or animal handling may also be beneficial but are not always mandatory for entry-level roles.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree often include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers with experience. These positions typically require strong skills, certifications, or licenses, and may involve commission-based income or overtime work.

How to get experience to work in a zoo?

Entry level zoo positions often require relevant experience such as volunteering, internships, or working with animals in related settings like shelters or farms. Gaining skills in animal care, biology, or conservation, along with certifications like first aid or animal handling, can improve your chances of securing a zoo job.

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 a passion for animals, good communication, and the ability to work outdoors or in animal enclosures; some roles may require basic knowledge of animal care or first aid certifications.

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:
Entry Level Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Zoo job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Full Time, 84% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,722 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Interpretive Guide I

Interpretive Guide I

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Interpretive Guide I
Education - Interpretive Engagement
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Education - Interpretive Engagement
Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Location: On-site | Jacksonville, FL
Reports To: Interpretive Engagement Supervisor
Schedule: Flexible availability required, including evenings, weekends,
and holidays
ABOUT THE ROLE
Do you love wildlife, storytelling, and sparking curiosity in others? Join
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens as an Interpretive Guide I and become
a frontline ambassador for conservation.
In this entry-level role, you'll bring animals and ecosystems to life for
guests of all ages - families, school groups, and curious adults alike. From
the Lorikeet Aviary to Stingray Bay, you'll facilitate unforgettable
interactive experiences while championing the zoo's mission to connect
communities with wildlife and wild places.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
Guest Engagement, safety & Education
  • Lead interactive experiences at the Lorikeet Aviary, Giraffe Overlook, Animal Care Yard, and Stingray Bay.
  • Share compelling animal, plant, and conservation stories tailored to families, school groups, and guests of all abilities.
  • Inspire guests to take meaningful conservation action through approachable, inquiry-based interpretation.
  • Deliver excellent service by answering questions, guiding animal interactions, and keeping areas running smoothly.
  • Monitor guest behavior and animal welfare to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.
  • Address guest concerns calmly and escalate when needed.

Teamwork & Professionalism
  • Collaborate within a diverse, fast-paced team environment.
  • Represent JZBG's values of Culture, Conservation, Education, and
  • Innovation in every interaction.
  • Maintain accurate records and adhere to all JZBG policies and procedures.

WHAT YOU BRING
Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • 1-2 years of experience in education, customer service, interpretation, or a related field.
  • Genuine passion for wildlife, conservation, and informal education.
  • Strong verbal communication and public-speaking skills.
  • Ability to engage large and diverse audiences confidently.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Commitment to inclusion, equity, and respectful communication.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic digital tools.

Preferred
  • Some college coursework or a Bachelor's degree in Zoology, Environmental
  • Biology, Education, or a related field.
  • Bilingual or multilingual skills.

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods in an outdoor environment.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 30-50 pounds.
  • Ability to bend, kneel, climb, crouch, and reach as needed.
  • Comfort working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Potential exposure to allergens, animals, zoonotic diseases, and environmental hazards.

OUR COMMITMENT
At Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, we believe that inspiring people
to care for the natural world starts with caring for our team. We are
committed to employee wellbeing, and we welcome
candidates from all backgrounds who share our passion for conservation.
This position description is not exhaustive and may evolve as organizational
needs change.
HOW TO APPLY
Visit www.jacksonvillezoo.org/careers to submit your application.
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is an Equal Opportunity and Drug Free Employer.
Pay Range: $15 per hour

Apply