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No Experience Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II, Carnivores

Houston, TX · On-site

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

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper I, Primates

Houston, TX · On-site

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

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 - 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 (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 - 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 (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 ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

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No Experience Zookeeper information

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How much do no experience zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 15% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,251 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Zookeeper II, Carnivores

Houston, TX • On-site

Houston Zoo
Museums and Historical Sites • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Houston Zooexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Houston Zoo rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry and maintenance of the animals and their enclosures. This role exercises the highest standards of animal welfare, conservation, guest engagement, and scientific research in alignment with the zoo's mission.
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 behavior-based husbandry; improves the quality of life of animal collection by providing enrichment and training opportunities.
  • 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 Pest Control team assists in pest control through the use of 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.
  • Assists with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for zoo projects.
  • Exhibits good teamwork and communication skills both within the home team and when working with other teams or departments.
  • Required to safely operate a motor vehicle.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in all duties and all assigned work areas within a specified timeframe.
  • Assists with training, mentoring, and oversees and directs activities of teenage volunteers, Zoo Crew.
  • Assists Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects.
  • Demonstrates a clear understanding of the roles AZA zoos have in conservation and saving animals in the wild.
  • Actively pursues feedback and other resources to develop leadership skills.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) from four-year college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment or internships.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license.
  • Must be dive certified or the ability to be certified (select animal departments).
  • Must be active members of the dive team to do routine maintenance and cleaning of the aquatic environments, following all dive protocols (select animal programs).

About Houston Zoo
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.
Join Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. 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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