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No Experience Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

Education and Experience * Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from four-year college or university in ... This in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

Preferred Education and Experience • Previous animal training and/or Zookeeper experience. • Experience in an AZA accredited facility is preferred. Additional Qualifications • Maintain a ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

Job Summary Zookeepers are responsible for the specialized work involving all the health and ... Required Education and Experience Requires a bachelor's degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science ...

City of Bloomington Illinois

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K/yr

Required Education/Experience: Bachelor's Degree from accredited college or university in Biology, Zoology, or related field, or Associate's Degree from an accredited college specializing and Zoo and ...

Binder Park Zoo

Zookeeper, Full-Time

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

Minimum one year experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting. * Experience working with giraffe, African hoofstock and / or primates a plus. * Excellent communication, judgment and record ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper - Primates

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

Experience in an AZA-accredited facility is preferred. Additional Qualifications * Maintain a current tetanus vaccination (5 years) and be willing to be TB tested annually. * Must be certified or ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper - Primates

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

Experience in an AZA-accredited facility is preferred. Additional Qualifications * Maintain a current tetanus vaccination (5 years) and be willing to be TB tested annually. * Must be certified or ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

Experience and education may be considered equivalent at the rate of six months of experience per 15 hours of college level credit, up to 60 hours. * A certificate of completion from an acceptable ...

Audubon Institute

Zookeeper- Elephants

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Provide daily guest experience of outstanding quality. * A strong willingness to engage our guests ... Heavy work involving lif ting no more than 100 pounds at a time with f requent lif ting or carrying ...

New

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

Experience and education may be considered equivalent at the rate of six months of experience per 15 hours of college level credit, up to 60 hours. * A certificate of completion from an acceptable ...

Sedgwick County

PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 13126 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Three years of experience in Biology, Zoology, Animal Care, or a related field. Up to three years ...

Zoo New England

Temporary Zookeeper

Boston, MA · On-site

Contributes to a positive guest experience through guest interactions, answering questions ... Must have no allergies, diseases, or conditions that would prevent working in any area of the Zoos.

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How much do no experience zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for no experience zookeeper in the United States is $19.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a no experience zookeeper?

A No Experience Zookeeper job is an entry-level position that allows individuals to work with animals in a zoo or wildlife setting without prior professional experience. These roles typically involve feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, assisting with basic care, and observing animal behavior under the supervision of experienced zookeepers. Many facilities offer on-the-job training to help new hires learn essential skills. This position is ideal for those passionate about animal care and looking to start a career in the field. Relevant volunteer work, internships, or coursework in zoology can improve your chances of being hired.

What can I expect during my first few months as a no experience zookeeper?

As a No Experience Zookeeper, your first few months will likely include hands-on training with experienced staff, learning proper animal feeding, cleaning, and observation routines. You'll gradually take on more responsibility as you become comfortable with safety procedures and animal behaviors. Expect to work in both indoor and outdoor environments, sometimes in all weather conditions, and to collaborate closely with other animal care professionals. This period is also an opportunity to ask questions and demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment, which can open up future advancement within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a no experience zookeeper?

To thrive as a No Experience Zookeeper, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, a passion for animal care, and a willingness to learn on the job. Training in basic animal handling, health and safety protocols, and familiarity with zoo management systems are typically provided by employers. Strong work ethic, communication skills, and attention to detail help candidates succeed in animal care and teamwork. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, smooth daily operations, and a positive visitor experience.

Can I get a job at the zoo with no experience?

No-experience zookeeper positions are often entry-level and may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates typically need to demonstrate a strong interest in animals, willingness to learn, and may benefit from volunteering or internships to gain relevant skills before applying for paid roles.

Is it hard to get a job as a No Experience Zookeeper?

Entry-level zookeeper positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a strong interest in animal care. Gaining relevant skills through volunteering or internships can improve chances, and some employers may require certifications in animal handling or safety. Competition can vary depending on the location and the facility's size.

Is it possible to become a no experience zookeeper without a degree?

Becoming a no experience zookeeper is possible as many entry-level positions do not require a degree, but they often require relevant skills such as animal handling, physical fitness, and knowledge of safety protocols. Gaining experience through volunteering or internships can improve chances of employment, and some employers may prefer candidates with certifications like first aid or animal care training.
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No Experience Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various No Experience Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,251 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston Zoo

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

Houston Zoo rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures within a specified Houston Zoo animal program. This position will coordinate all program objectives in addition to day-to-day husbandry and enclosure maintenance. Members of the Aquarium and Sea Lion/Penguin team will need to be active members on the dive team to do routine maintenance and cleaning of the aquatic environments, following all dive protocols.
Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.
Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Carries out all aspects of the daily care of assigned animals including cleaning, feeding, exhibit maintenance, general upkeep of support facilities.
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, holding areas, service areas and equipment.
  • Prepares and feeds appropriate diets as per established feeding practices and diet sheets.
  • Administers prescribed medications, supplements, or treatments under the guidance of the veterinary and supervisory staff.
  • Records and reports any abnormal animal health or behavioral issues to the Zoo Supervisor.
  • Maintains daily reports, logs, training and enrichment records, research, or veterinary records, as appropriate and according to established guidelines; requires basic skills with TRACKS and Microsoft Office software applications.
  • Understands and applies a practical understanding of operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under his/her care.
  • Understands and applies the basic principles of animal enrichment as part of the daily management of species under his/her care.
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas.
  • As appropriate, maintains water quality through filtration, balance of chemical elements, and sanitation methods for aquatic or semi-aquatic animal species.
  • As appropriate, maintains live exhibit plantings to enhance exhibit aesthetics; eliminates weeds and toxic plants from animal enclosures.
  • In conjunction with the Zoo's pest control officer, may assist in pest control using exclusion or traps.
  • Identifies potential maintenance or safety issues and reports them to the Zoo Supervisor.
  • Participates in keeper chats, tours, animal presentations or demonstrations, and/or other public interactions as requested by the Zoo Supervisor.
  • May assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for the Zoo projects.
  • Exhibits good teamwork and communication skills both within the home team and when working with other teams or departments.
  • May be required to safely operate a motor vehicle.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in all duties and all assigned work areas within a specified timeframe.
  • Serves as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and/or other departments in the absence of a Zoo Supervisor.
  • Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of interns, volunteers, and other area Keepers.
  • Assists Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of area standard operating guidelines.
  • Assumes select supervisory duties in the absence of Zoo Supervisors.
  • Serves as a positive role model for interns, volunteers, and other keepers and staff.
  • Demonstrates a clear understanding of the roles AZA zoos play in conservation and saving animals in the wild.
  • Actively pursues feedback and other resources to improve leadership skills and helps to improve such skills in other team members.
  • Contributes to saving animals in the wild through: reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from four-year college or university in zoology, biology, animal husbandry or a related field.
  • Experience and education may be considered equivalent at the rate of six months of experience per 15 hours of college level credit, up to 60 hours.
  • A certificate of completion from an acceptable animal care program may be substituted for a Bachelor's degree.
  • Six years of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment or internships.
  • Experience with basic carpentry and mechanical skills.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license.

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO
The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
Full-time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.
  • Medical and Prescription Drug
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
  • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Supplemental Life
  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
  • 401k, with employer match

Full-time and Part-Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.
  • Free Zoo Membership
  • Free Guest Passes
  • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
  • Free parking

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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