ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Exotic Animal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Veterinary Avian & Exotics

Akron, OH · On-site

Practice high-quality avian and exotic animal medicine with access to advanced diagnostics, surgery, and extensive support * Enjoy a diverse and rewarding caseload including birds, reptiles ...

NVA

Emergency Exotics Veterinarian

Bothell, WA · On-site

$120K/yr

Ideal candidates will have experience in emergency or exotic animal medicine, though we welcome motivated veterinarians with a strong desire to learn. This is a rare opportunity to join a ...

The CALDWELL ZOO

Animal Husbandry Internship

Tyler, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Safe methods of exotic animal handling and restraint * Animal behavior, husbandry, and record keeping * Animal nutrition, to include preparing and distributing animal diets * Preventative medicine ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExotic Animal Jobs

Exotic Animal information

See salary details

$29.5K

$48.6K

$63.5K

How much do exotic animal jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for exotic animal in the United States is $48,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Exotic Animal job?

An Exotic Animal job involves working with rare, wild, or non-domesticated animals in various settings such as zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, veterinary clinics, or research facilities. Professionals in this field may include exotic animal veterinarians, zookeepers, wildlife rehabilitators, or animal trainers. Responsibilities can range from providing medical care and nutrition to conducting behavioral studies and ensuring proper habitat conditions. These jobs require specialized knowledge of animal behavior, biology, and welfare to ensure ethical and effective care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Exotic Animal position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a role working with exotic animals, you need specialized knowledge in animal biology, husbandry practices, and relevant safety protocols, often supported by a degree in zoology, animal science, or a related field. Certifications such as Certified Exotic Animal Technician or training in animal handling equipment are commonly required, along with the ability to use record-keeping and enclosure maintenance systems. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication enhance the ability to care for diverse species and work within a team. These competencies help ensure the health and welfare of exotic animals while maintaining safe and efficient facility operations.

What is the highest paid animal job?

The highest paid animal-related job is often a zoo director or senior wildlife veterinarian, with salaries reaching over $100,000 annually. Specialized roles such as exotic animal trainers or conservation managers can also command high salaries, especially with advanced certifications and experience.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for someone working with exotic animals?

Professionals in exotic animal roles typically start their day by feeding and observing the animals, checking enclosures for cleanliness and safety, and monitoring for any signs of illness or distress. They may also assist with medical treatments, enrichment activities, and behavioral training, as well as record-keeping and educational presentations. Collaboration with veterinarians, curators, and other animal care staff is common to ensure each animal receives comprehensive care. Responsibilities can vary based on work setting, such as zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or private facilities, but this role consistently involves hands-on, attentive care for a variety of unique species.

What jobs can I get if I love animals?

Jobs for those who love animals include exotic animal caretaker, zookeeper, wildlife rehabilitator, and animal trainer. These roles often require knowledge of animal behavior, specialized certifications, and experience working in environments such as zoos, sanctuaries, or research facilities.

What are unusual animal career paths?

Exotic animal careers can include roles such as wildlife rehabilitators, zookeepers specializing in rare species, or conservation biologists working with endangered animals. These paths often require specialized training, certifications, and a passion for animal welfare, with work environments ranging from zoos and aquariums to field research sites.

What degree do you need to work with exotic animals?

To work with exotic animals, a degree in zoology, wildlife biology, animal science, or a related field is typically required. Many positions also benefit from hands-on experience, certifications in animal handling, and knowledge of species-specific care and safety protocols.
More about Exotic Animal jobs
What cities are hiring for Exotic Animal jobs? Cities with the most Exotic Animal job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Exotic Animal jobs? The most popular types of Exotic Animal jobs are:
What states have the most Exotic Animal jobs? States with the most job openings for Exotic Animal jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Exotic Animal jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Exotic Animal jobs are:
Exotic Animal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exotic Animal job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,581 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Veterinarian - Avian & Exotic Pets

Ness Exotic Wellness Center PC

Lisle, IL • On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

We are an Avian & Exotic Pet practice in Chicago suburb seeking Full-Time Veterinarian!
About Us:
Ness Exotic Wellness Center is a very well established nearly exclusive Avian & Exotic Pet Practice with a few dog and cat holistic care patients. This privately owned practice is housed in our own free-standing facility providing the latest in avian and exotic pet diagnostics and medicine. We are looking to hire both a seasoned or board certified veterinarian and new or experienced veterinarians.Our entire team maintains a strong foundation in conventional diagnostics and therapy for all of our patients. 
  • The hospital is equipped with an in-house laboratory, CT scanner, digital radiography, ultrasound, endoscopy and digital thermography. 
  • We maintain a minimum 2:1 technician to doctor ratio, with most of our experienced technicians being part of our team for 7 to 10 years.  
  • We integrate a variety of holistic modalities to complement the care of our patients, including Herbal therapy, Traditional Chinese medicine, nutraceuticals, Laser therapy, Acupuncture and Chiropractic care. 
Job Requirements:
  •  Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent
  •  State licensure or eligibility to obtain licensure as a veterinarian
  •  Experience in avian and exotic animal medicine
  •  Knowledge and skills in the nutrition, husbandry, medical and surgical care for the variety of avian and exotic pet species
  •  Passion for providing high-quality care to avian and exotic pets
  •  Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  •  Ability to work effectively in a team setting and collaborate with other veterinarians and staff
  •  Openness to Integrative modalities along with progressive diagnostics, surgery & conventional medicine
Website:  www.NessExotic.com