Entry Level Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement.

This is a part-time temporary position expected to end on August 31, 2026. We are looking to hire 2 staff for this position. Applications accepted until July 5, 2026.

Application Process

• Applicants must submit a resume.
• Candidates not meeting minimum requirements may not receive a response.
• Applicants selected for candidacy are required to attend an on-site working interview.

Payrate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the pay rate for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $22.50 per hour. An offer at this payrate will be our best and final compensation offer, in alignment with Oakland Zoo's compensation philosophy.

Position Summary

Keeper Aides get valuable experience in this entry-level position in the Animal Care, Conservation & Research (ACCR) department at Oakland Zoo. The position provides support for animal keepers in their daily work and projects. Primary duties for this position are assisting the Zoo’s commissary staff and assisting the staff in the goat and sheep petting yard.

Essential Job Duties

• Prepare diets, deliver meals, clean and sanitize work areas, restock supplies, and complete additional assigned projects in the Commissary.
• Clean and maintain the goat and sheep barn and petting yard; clean and set up animal holding areas.
• Sweep, rake, shovel, hose, scrub, move heavy objects, operate a wheelbarrow, climb ladders, weed, prune, and use knives and other tools as needed.
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned

Supervisory Responsibility

• No supervisory responsibility

Who You Are

• Excellent guest service communication skills and attitude
• Able to follow instructions and carry out responsibilities safely to avoid injury to themselves, other employees, visitors, and animals
• Able to work independently, thoroughly completing duties within specified periods of time
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Willingness to work with some physical risk while observing proper safety precautions
• Medical requirements:
• Negative TB test within the last year
• Tetanus vaccine within the last 10 years
• Available to work 6-8 hour shifts 2-4 days per week during and outside of normal business hours, including weekends and most holidays, averaging <20 hr/week

Bonus If You Have

• Some experience working around animals in a zoo or rehab setting
• Comfort working around people - including children
• Experience with the safe use of power tools
• High school diploma or GED

Work Environment – Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.

• Work in indoor and outdoor environments in various weather conditions, sometimes in or around significant dirt and dust

Physical Considerations- The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. (i.e., feed sack) and move a minimum of 120 lbs. (i.e., hay bale)
• Able to walk long distances on uneven terrain in variable environmental conditions (e.g., steep, muddy, etc.)

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualities– May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing
• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.
• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times
• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department
• Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at the Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife

Benefits

Oakland Zoo offers part-time employees a valuable benefits package, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Paid Sick Time, optional 403b Retirement Plan, and a Zoo Membership. They also have access to various perks, discounts, and programs to enhance their overall experience.