1

Exotic Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * Four year related degree OR a two year related degree ...

New

Senior Keeper - Great Apes

Omaha, NE ยท On-site

$20.49/hr

Exotic/zoo animal husbandry experience required. * Operant conditioning and goal-based enrichment experience required. * Public speaking experience is preferred. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities ...

Exotic Animal Intern

Delavan, WI ยท On-site

$100 - $300/wk

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships available from OCTOBER 2026 - APRIL 2027 . This internship is perfect for anyone wanting to specialize in ...

Exotic Animal Intern

Delavan, WI ยท On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships available from APRIL to NOVEMBER. This internship is perfect for anyone wanting to specialize in the animal ...

... Zoo and Aquarium as a member of our Ungulate team! Job Summary Zookeepers are responsible for the specialized work involving all the health and wellbeing of native and exotic animals through feeding ...

... Zoo and Aquarium as a member of our Ungulate team! Job Summary Zookeepers are responsible for the specialized work involving all the health and wellbeing of native and exotic animals through feeding ...

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

At least five years of experience in exotic animal care or an equivalent combination of relevant ... John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Exotic Zoo information

See salary details

$20

$27

$36

How much do exotic zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for exotic zoo in the United States is $27.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exotic zoo?

An exotic zoo is a type of animal facility that specializes in housing, caring for, and exhibiting non-native or unusual species that are not commonly found in traditional zoos. These animals may include rare mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects from around the world. Exotic zoos often focus on education, conservation, and providing unique experiences for visitors by showcasing animals that people may not otherwise encounter. They are regulated to ensure animal welfare and public safety, and may participate in conservation or breeding programs. Visiting an exotic zoo can offer insights into biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered species.

What are some common challenges faced by animal care staff working at an exotic zoo, and how can they prepare for them?

Animal care staff at exotic zoos often encounter challenges such as managing the specific dietary, environmental, and behavioral needs of a diverse range of species. Staff must also be vigilant about safety protocols, as some animals may be dangerous or require specialized handling. Collaboration with veterinarians, keepers, and educators is essential to ensure animal health and public engagement. Preparing through ongoing education, hands-on experience, and strong communication skills can help staff adapt to the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exotic zoo keeper?

To thrive as an Exotic Zoo Keeper, you need knowledge of animal husbandry, biology, and safety protocols, often supported by a degree in zoology or a related field. Familiarity with animal management software, species-specific care equipment, and certifications in animal handling or first aid are typically required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with both colleagues and the public set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualifications ensure the well-being of exotic animals, facilitate educational outreach, and maintain a safe environment for both animals and visitors.

What is the difference between Exotic Zoo vs Exotic Animal Keeper?

AspectExotic ZooExotic Animal Keeper
Required CredentialsWildlife or zoology degree, certifications in animal careAnimal handling certifications, zoology or related degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic zoo settings, educational exhibits, visitor interactionAnimal enclosures, research facilities, sometimes public interaction
Employer & IndustryZoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizationsZoos, wildlife sanctuaries, research centers

Exotic Zoo staff typically work in public zoo environments, focusing on animal care, education, and visitor engagement. Exotic Animal Keepers often work in similar settings but may have more specialized roles in animal husbandry and research. Both roles require relevant certifications and a passion for wildlife conservation.

More about Exotic Zoo jobs
What states have the most Exotic Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for Exotic Zoo jobs include:
Infographic showing various Exotic Zoo job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,577 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Assistant /Associate Professor of Exotic / Zoo Animal Medicine - Veterinary Medicine

Rocky Vista University

Billings, MT โ€ข On-site

$149K - $196K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Location, Job Title, Benefits

Rocky Vista University is launching an exciting new College of Veterinary Medicine , and we are seeking forwardโ€‘thinking educators who are eager to help build something extraordinary from the ground up. This is a rare opportunity to shape an innovative, studentโ€‘centered veterinary curriculum, one grounded in realโ€‘world clinical excellence and designed to prepare graduates for the evolving demands of the profession.

Faculty at RVU CVM will collaborate closely with accomplished peers to design, develop, and continuously refine courses, playing a central role in shaping both the program and the future of veterinary education. Youโ€™ll teach, mentor, and innovate in stateโ€‘ofโ€‘theโ€‘art facilities in beautiful Billings, Montana, where exceptional quality of life, a welcoming community, and unparalleled access to outdoor recreation come together.

If you are energized by collaboration, inspired by new possibilities in veterinary education, and motivated by the opportunity to leave a lasting professional legacy, Rocky Vista University invites you to join us at the beginning of something truly special.

SALARY :

$149,864 - $196,539 per year. The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skill, knowledge, experience, education, and credentials. Specifically, Faculty salary is determined by these factors as well as Faculty Rank which will be determined by the RVU Rank and Promotion committee.

Relocation Assistance available.

BENEFITS:

RVU offers a full benefits package that includes 401(k), Health, Dental and Vision insurance, along with 2 weeks (minimum) accrued paid vacation days per year, 12 accrued sick days per year, personal days, 13 ยฝ paid holidays and 401(K) match up to 7% based on employeeโ€™s contribution.

Commitment to Inclusive Excellence: We are Rocky Vista University (RVU), a diverse, equitable, and inclusive healthcare education university that recognizes, values, and respects the commonalities and differences reflected in our students, staff, faculty, and alumni. We strive to be compassionate healthcare educators and practitioners who embrace and champion inclusive excellence.

RVU is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Primary Purpose

Enhance the knowledge, growth and overall development of the veterinary students through contribution to courses administered by the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences through the delivery of assigned lectures, running small groups, reviewing and contributing to course material, developing and reviewing exam questions.

Essential Job Functions

  • Responsibilities in research and teaching in Exotic / Zoo Animal Medicine.

Research & Scholarly Activities

  • Research areas of emphasis at CVM include: One Health, Wildlife & Conservation Medicine, Climate Change, Zoonotic Diseases, and Public Health.

  • Advise and mentor DVM and graduate students and actively engage in independent and collaborative research.

  • Actively engage in independent and collaborative research in your area of expertiseto include projects suitable for veterinary student participation.

  • Specific interest and background in collaborative research with CVM faculty in other departments is desirable.

Participate in the following University Activities

  • Faculty Senate

  • Departmental Meetings (when required)

  • Departmental Faculty evaluations (when required)

  • College/University committees

Minimum Qualifications

  • DVM from an accredited institution.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Board eligible or board certification preferred.

  • Experience and interest in Exotic / Zoo Animal Medicine research is highly desired.

Final applicant will be required to pass background check and drug screening.

Qualified applicants will be contacted.There may be an additional video interview for you to complete. Please watch your email including spam and promotions folder.

Rocky Vista University is in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and does not discriminate with regard to applicants or employees with disabilities, and will make reasonable accommodation when necessary. The following are essential abilities and physical requirements for all positions at the University.

  • Ability to orally communicate effectively with others;

  • Ability to communicate effectively in writing, using the English language;

  • Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues and supervisory staff at all levels;

  • May be exposed to short, intermittent, and /or prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing in performance of job duties;

  • May be required to accomplish job duties using various types of equipment/supplies to include, but not limited to, pens, pencils, calculators, computer keyboards, telephone, etc.;

  • May be required to transport oneself to other campus offices, conference rooms, and on occasion, to off-campus sites to attend meetings, conferences, workshops, seminars, etc.

careers@universitysupport.com

#HEJ

Software Powered by ICIMS

Job ID 2026-3490

Type Full-Time

Location : Location US-MT-Billings

Budgeted Salary Range $149,864 - $196,539 per year DOE