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Junior Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oakland Zoo

Float Keeper B

Oakland, CA · On-site

$28.45/hr

Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate * Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo ...

Oakland Zoo

Float Keeper B

Oakland, CA

$28.45/hr

Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate * Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo ...

Oakland Zoo

Float Keeper B, California Trail

Oakland, CA · On-site

$28.45/hr

Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate * Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo ...

Oakland Zoo

Float Keeper B, California Trail

Oakland, CA · On-site

$28.45/hr

Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate * Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo ...

Maryland Zoo

Area Manager (Penguin Coast)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary ... Coordinatethe training opportunities for volunteers, Junior keepers, and interns; * Participateon ...

Maryland Zoo

Area Manager (Penguin Coast)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Additionally, the Area Manager will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild ... Coordinatethe training opportunities for volunteers, Junior keepers, and interns; * Participateon ...

Oakland Zoo

Float Keeper B, California Trail

Oakland, CA · On-site

$28.45/hr

Guide and support junior staff and volunteers as appropriate * Represent the Zoo in a variety of public settings including press interviews, instructional classes and casual communication with Zoo ...

CompHealth

Pediatrician Position in North Dakota

Minot, ND · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Minot offers activities for all interests including a community theater, symphony orchestra, art galleries, junior hockey team, and a newly expanded mall, and a zoo. On the banks of the Souris River ...

Jobsbridge

Jr. Hadoop Administrator

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... Zookeeper, etc Cloudera CHD4 /CDH5 cluster management and capacity planning experience (Other distributions experience is a plus) Comfortable working in cross-functional teams with diverse and global ...

ZooTampa

Design & Engineering Internship

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Have you ever wanted to help build the future of a world-class zoo? Join ZooTampa's Design ... Junior or Senior actively enrolled in a degree program in pursuit of a Construction Management ...

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Junior Zookeeper information

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How much do junior zookeeper jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior zookeeper in the United States is $52,462.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Junior Zookeepers?

Junior Zookeepers are entry-level animal care professionals who assist with the daily care and maintenance of animals in zoos or wildlife parks. Their responsibilities typically include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and assisting senior zookeepers with health checks and enrichment activities. Junior Zookeepers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of the animals and supporting educational and conservation programs. This position often serves as a starting point for those pursuing a career in animal care or zoology.

Is a zookeeper an entry-level job?

A junior zookeeper is typically considered an entry-level position in the field, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with animals or in a related environment. It provides foundational skills in animal care, enclosure maintenance, and safety protocols, serving as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in zoology or conservation. Additional certifications or training in animal handling may be beneficial for advancement.

How to become a zookeeper with no experience?

Junior zookeepers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a strong interest in animal care. Gaining experience through volunteering, internships, or working in animal shelters can improve chances, and relevant skills include basic animal handling and knowledge of safety protocols. Certifications in first aid or animal care can also be beneficial.

How hard is it to get a zoo keeper job?

Securing a junior zookeeper position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in biology, zoology, or animal science, along with hands-on experience through internships or volunteering. Strong animal handling skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and certifications like first aid can improve chances, but entry-level roles typically have a limited number of openings and may require patience and persistence.

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

To thrive as a Junior Zookeeper, you typically need a background in animal science or biology, experience working with animals, and often a relevant certification or vocational training. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding and cleaning equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure animal health, safety, and public education are maintained to high standards in a zoo environment.

Can I work at the zoo at 15?

Junior Zookeepers and similar entry-level zoo positions typically require applicants to be at least 16 or 18 years old, depending on local labor laws. Younger applicants may need to seek volunteer opportunities or internships, as paid positions often have age restrictions and require safety training. It is important to check specific zoo policies and local regulations for age requirements and work permits.

What are some typical challenges a Junior Zookeeper might face during their first year on the job?

Junior Zookeepers often face challenges such as adapting to the rigorous physical demands of animal care, learning to handle a wide variety of species safely, and quickly mastering protocols for feeding, cleaning, and enclosure maintenance. Additionally, they must develop effective communication skills to work closely with senior staff, veterinarians, and sometimes the public. Overcoming these challenges requires a willingness to learn, attention to detail, and a passion for animal welfare, all of which are supported by mentorship and training within most zoological institutions.

What is the difference between Junior Zookeeper vs Animal Care Assistant?

AspectJunior ZookeeperAnimal Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, animal handling experienceHigh school diploma, basic animal care knowledge
Work EnvironmentZoological parks, aquariums, wildlife reservesAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in zoos and aquariumsIn various animal care settings including zoos

Junior Zookeepers and Animal Care Assistants both work in animal care environments, often requiring similar credentials. However, Junior Zookeepers typically focus more on animal husbandry and exhibit maintenance in zoos, while Animal Care Assistants may work across diverse settings like shelters and clinics. The roles are closely related, with Junior Zookeepers often having more specialized responsibilities in zoo environments.

More about Junior Zookeeper jobs
What cities are hiring for Junior Zookeeper jobs? Cities with the most Junior Zookeeper job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs? The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs are:
What states have the most Junior Zookeeper jobs? States with the most job openings for Junior Zookeeper jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Junior Zookeeper jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Zookeeper jobs are:
Junior Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,462 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Ark Encounter Zoo Attendant Temporary

Ark Encounter Zoo Attendant Temporary

Answers in Genesis

Williamstown, KY • On-site

$13 - $16.75/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Answers in Genesis rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 15 rated religious organizations

Job description

The Ararat Ridge Zoo at the Ark Encounter exists to be a world-class zoo providing guests with experiences and education that inspire a biblical understanding of creation, highlight the purpose of God's design, and promote stewardship of creation. This is an entry-level position, responsible for monitoring stations and assisting with animal feeds and guest experiences throughout the zoo. This position will also help to oversee the interactions between guests and animals. By providing above-and-beyond customer service and ensuring a family-friendly, safe environment, the "Zoo Attendant" is an integral part of zoo operations. A cooperative, team-oriented personality, along with a friendly and courteous attitude, is highly desirable. This role is perfect for an outgoing individual who is looking to get their foot in the door in animal care.
This position will allow one to impact others through a service mindset centered on making an eternal difference. This position should display our Core Values of SERVE (Serve, Equip, Relate, Value, Engage) when interfacing with both internal and external customers to ensure that the message and mission of Answers in Genesis is portrayed in an effective and God-honoring fashion. This position provides opportunities for spiritual, personal, and professional development.
Responsibilities
  • Promote the mission and standards of Answers in Genesis.
  • Create a SERVE culture environment in all work done.
  • Approach all tasks with a second mile mindset.
  • Prioritize personal integrity in all interactions and assignments.
  • Provides exceptional customer service, providing friendly and professional service to guests and staff members.
  • Engage guests in a pleasant manner.
  • Must enjoy working with a team but be able to work independently as well.
  • Shifts include working outside in all weather conditions including rain as well as low and high temperatures.
  • Stations
    • Greeting guests at all stations; sharing all guidelines for entry
    • Shares animal information with guests
    • Sweep pathways and monitors for debris (trash, foreign food, etc.)
    • Assists keepers with opening and closing areas as trained
    • Performs other related duties as assigned
  • Paid Experiences
    • Welcomes guests, handles sales, and distributes food at all animal feeding stations, including walkabouts, Junior's Zoo, and camel encounters.
    • Monitors feeding areas to ensure safety of animals and guests
    • Assists in cleaning and restocking feed cups, bowls, etc.
    • Assists in opening and closing areas as trained
  • Assist with Surprise and Delights in the zoo as trained
  • And all other duties and responsibilities assigned by management.

Requirements
  • Must agree with and be able to sign our Statement of Faith.
  • Maintains a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
  • Regularly attends a local Bible-believing church.
  • Must be able to stand and move about throughout the attraction for the entire length of shift.
  • Perform duties in varied temperature and weather conditions throughout the attraction (e.g., extreme heat/cold, wind, rain, snow)
  • Must be at least 16 years of age or older.

Items Needed for Possible Employment
  • Completion of on-line application, https://answersingenesis.org
  • Salary Requirements
  • Salvation Testimony
  • Creation Belief Statement
  • Confirmation of your agreement with the AiG Statement of Faith (AiG Statement of Faith can be found on the website). https://answersingenesis.org/about/faith/
  • Completion of a Background Check and Pre-Employment Drug Screen

What Answers in Genesis employees say

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