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Hoofstock Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Denver Zoo

Animal Care Specialist-Hoofstock

Denver, CO · On-site

$24.20 - $29.64/hr

The hoofstock division includes a diverse range of species, including giraffe, lesser kudu, Somali wild ass, eastern bongo, and others. This role requires excellence in husbandry skills ...

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Hoofstock information

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How much do hoofstock jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for hoofstock in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hoofstock vs Equine Care Specialist?

AspectHoofstockEquine Care Specialist
CredentialsVeterinary technician certification, hoof trimming trainingEquine veterinary technician certification, hoof care courses
Work EnvironmentZoos, farms, wildlife reserves with hoofed animalsEquine facilities, stables, riding schools
Industry UsageWildlife parks, zoos, livestock farmsEquine industry, horse farms, riding centers

Hoofstock professionals focus on hoof care and health for a variety of hoofed animals like cattle, deer, and antelope, often working in zoos or farms. Equine Care Specialists specifically work with horses, providing hoof trimming, health assessments, and care. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, their primary focus differs based on the species they serve.

Do zookeepers make good money?

Zookeepers, including those working with hoofstock, typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions often pay less, while experienced zookeepers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. The job often involves physically demanding work and requires knowledge of animal care and safety protocols.

What are hoofstock keepers?

Hoofstock keepers are animal care professionals who specialize in the daily husbandry, health, and welfare of hoofed animals—such as antelope, giraffes, zebras, and other ungulates—typically in zoos, wildlife parks, or conservation centers. Their duties include feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, providing enrichment, and assisting with veterinary care. They also play a vital role in conservation, education, and breeding programs for at-risk species.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Hoofstock Keeper at a zoo or wildlife facility?

As a Hoofstock Keeper, your daily responsibilities typically include feeding and monitoring the health of animals such as giraffes, zebras, antelope, and other hoofed species. You'll be responsible for cleaning and maintaining enclosures, conducting behavioral observations, and assisting with enrichment activities to ensure the animals' well-being. Collaboration with veterinary staff for routine health checks and participating in public education or keeper talks are also common. The role often involves working as part of a team, requiring strong communication skills and attention to detail to ensure the highest standards of animal care.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the hoofstock industry, high-paying roles such as specialized animal trainers, farm managers, or sales professionals can reach or exceed $10,000 monthly, especially with experience and industry knowledge. These jobs often require skills, certifications, or extensive experience rather than formal degrees and may involve working in agricultural or zoological environments.

What kind of qualifications do you need to be a zookeeper?

To be a zookeeper, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring or requiring a degree in zoology, biology, or a related field. Relevant experience with animals, strong physical stamina, and knowledge of safety protocols are also important; certifications in animal care or first aid can be beneficial.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the field of hoofstock management, high-paying roles such as specialized veterinarians, zoo curators, or large-scale livestock consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in private or high-end facilities. These positions often require advanced skills, relevant licenses, and the ability to handle complex animal care or management tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hoofstock Keeper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hoofstock Keeper, you need knowledge of animal husbandry, zoology, and species-specific care, typically supported by a degree in animal science, biology, or a related field. Experience with husbandry management systems, animal enrichment tools, and sometimes certification in animal care or handling are commonly required. Strong observational skills, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working with both animals and colleagues. These skills ensure the health and well-being of hoofstock species, compliance with safety regulations, and efficient operation of zoological facilities.
More about Hoofstock jobs
What job categories do people searching Hoofstock jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hoofstock jobs are:
Hoofstock jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hoofstock job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Internship, 64% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Animal Care Specialist-Hoofstock

Denver Zoo

Denver, CO • On-site

$24.20 - $29.64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.
The Animal Care Specialist - Hoofstock role will support our mission by ensuring the safe exhibition, handling, feeding, and husbandry of the Zoo's hoofstock collection. The hoofstock division includes a diverse range of species, including giraffe, lesser kudu, Somali wild ass, eastern bongo, and others. This role requires excellence in husbandry skills, communication, active participation in training and enrichment, and involvement in public demonstrations.
Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Animal Care
  • Provide innovative animal husbandry that follows AZA and USDA standards.
  • Maintain proper animal enclosures/props/exhibits and Life Support Systems where appropriate.
  • Capture, handle, and move animals using accepted DZCA practices to facilitate internal movement, external shipping, medical procedures, or normal routines.
  • Monitoring of physical and behavioral aspects of the animals under assigned care.
  • Implementation of the behavioral program for the animals under assigned care.
  • Record data and prepare assigned reports/records (i.e., daily reports, enclosure logs, facility logs, water quality logs, etc.) and other pertinent data on the collection and facilities as required.

Collaboration
  • Work closely with other team members to achieve area goals and expectations.
  • Train fellow keepers, interns, and volunteers in standard section routines.
  • Cooperate and coordinate with other departments (e.g., education, maintenance, horticulture) and outside contractors.
  • Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members.
  • Actively participate in conservation and research projects as assigned.
  • Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and workgroups.

Guest Experience
  • Interact with DZCA guests in both formal and informal settings, providing insight into the animals and their care.
  • Provide area behind-the-scenes tours, up-close looks, keeper talks, and special events in areas of responsibility as needed.
  • Participate in educational programs as assigned.
  • Maintain a professional appearance, following uniform guidelines.

Facilities and Operations
  • Respond to zoo-wide animal-related emergencies.
  • Coordinate the efforts of contractors and maintenance staff when they are working in animal areas.
  • Follow DZCA safety protocols.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to DZCA Occupational Health, Safety, Environmental & Sustainability Policies by adhering to all environmental, safety, & health regulations, procedures, and goals.

Technical/Professional Requirements & Qualifications
A total of 6 years combined experience between education AND zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution
  • Degree in Zoo Animal Technology, Biology, or a science-based field, or animal behavior/psychology required, or in a related field
  • Zookeeper experience in the care, feeding, and handling of a variety of exotic animals in an AZA-accredited institution.
  • Ability, with proper training, to work in all aspects of animal care, husbandry, and training within the department in which the individual is assigned.
  • Work on weekends and holidays is required.
  • Operate a variety of light and medium equipment.

Position Conditions
  • Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
  • Clear driving record.
  • Ability to lift to 50 lbs.

Compensation
The range for this position is $24.20 - $29.64 (hourly).
A Truly Wild Workplace with Competitive Benefits
Join our team and enjoy a wide variety of great benefits, including:
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 403(b) Retirement Account with employer match
  • Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
  • A Family DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events
  • Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking
  • And so much more!

Application Process & Timelines
Resumes / Completed applications must be submitted by June 17, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately. Denver Zoo reserves the right to close the position before this date.
Denver Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
www.denverzoo.org
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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