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Part Time Zoo Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peoria Park District

Animal Keeper Part Time

Peoria, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Curator of Animals, the Animal Keeper Part-Time will be ... Caring for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo's collection. * Cleaning and disinfecting ...

Peoria Park District

Animal Keeper Part Time

Peoria, IL · On-site

$16/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Curator of Animals, the Animal Keeper Part-Time will be ... Caring for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo's collection. * Cleaning and disinfecting ...

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Part Time Zoo Keeper information

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How much do part time zoo keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time zoo keeper in the United States is $24.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to be a zoo keeper?

To become a part-time zoo keeper, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or education in animal care, biology, or zoology. Certifications in first aid, animal handling, or specific species care can be beneficial, and physical stamina is often required due to the demands of the job.

How hard is it to get a zoo keeper job?

Getting a part-time zoo keeper position can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, such as volunteering or internships, and a background in animal care or biology. Employers typically look for candidates with strong communication skills, physical stamina, and sometimes certifications like first aid or animal handling training.

What are some typical day-to-day responsibilities for a Part Time Zoo Keeper?

A Part Time Zoo Keeper's daily duties usually include feeding and watering animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health and behavior, and preparing enrichment activities. You may also interact with visitors by answering questions or assisting with educational presentations. Depending on the zoo and department, you may work closely with a team or more independently during your shifts. This role often requires flexibility, as tasks can vary based on animal needs, seasons, and special events. Being proactive and organized helps ensure both animal welfare and a positive visitor experience.

What is a Part Time Zoo Keeper job?

A Part Time Zoo Keeper is responsible for the care and maintenance of animals in a zoo on a part-time basis. Duties typically include feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with visitor education. This role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and a passion for animal welfare. Part-time zoo keepers may work weekends, holidays, or flexible shifts depending on the zoo's needs. Experience with animals and a background in biology or zoology can be beneficial.

How much can a zoo keeper make?

A zoo keeper's salary varies depending on experience, location, and the institution, but typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 annually. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced keepers with specialized skills can earn higher wages and additional benefits such as health insurance and professional development opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Part Time Zoo Keeper position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Zoo Keeper, you need foundational knowledge of animal care, safety protocols, and basic husbandry, often supported by experience or coursework in zoology, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, cleaning tools, and sometimes certification in first aid or animal care is advantageous. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and a collaborative attitude help you excel in this setting. These skills ensure the well-being of animals, safety of staff and guests, and effective teamwork in a dynamic environment.

How can I work as a zoo keeper?

To work as a zoo keeper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or education in animal care, biology, or zoology. Many positions require hands-on experience through volunteering or internships, and certifications in animal handling or safety may be beneficial. Strong physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work outdoors are also important.
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Part Time Zoo Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Zoo Keeper job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 18% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,573 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Associate Zoo Keeper (Part-Time)

Associate Zoo Keeper (Part-Time)

Hattiesburg Convention Commission

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION: Associate Zoo Keeper, Part-Time

DEPARTMENT: Zoo Animal Care

LOCATION: Hattiesburg Zoo

SHIFT: Maximum 24 hours per week on a schedule requiring a mix of weekdays, weekends, evenings and holidays as required.

REPORTS TO: Animal Curator

SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Animal Curator, performs scientific work in the care of zoo animals and the maintenance of zoo exhibits and facilities. Participate in the enrichment, dietary, record keeping and health needs of the current animal collection. Participates in the aesthetics and maintenance of the various exhibits and participates with guest interactions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Observes and evaluates animal condition, behavior, and responses on a daily basis and reports any unusual situations to the supervisor, as well as any aggressive or potentially dangerous tendencies.

• Maintains records on animal health and behavior, exhibits, diets, vet care, enrichment/training, etc.

• Cleans (disinfects as scheduled) and checks integrity of animal exhibits and structures daily to ensure safety and welfare of animals, guests, and staff in accordance with established guidelines.

• Maintains exhibit and landscaping, such as caring for plants in and around exhibits, cleaning and installing perches, nest boxes, bedding materials, feed containers, and decorative materials and understands how these will be used by animals and their safety.

• Operates heavy machinery as needed.

• Performs minor repairs and preventative maintenance to exhibits, reports maintenance concerns they cannot be easily addressed to the supervisor, makes recommendations to improve the safety, aesthetics, and functionality of facilities; assists in the completion of approved changes.

• Prepares prescribed diets and follows feeding instructions noting consumption of diet; thoroughly cleans food bowls and containers; unloads and replenishes hay; unloads food shipments.

• Assists in the capture and restraint of animals, which may or may not be sedated; assists in administering prescribed medications and dietary supplements noting consumption and treating injured/sick animals.

• Daily involvement in improving the quality of life of the animals by assisting in the enrichment program to elicit species-typical behaviors

• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education and Work Experience:

Pursuing or has a Bachelor’s degree in biological field or currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in the science field and 6 months animal experience or 1-2 years exotic animal experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Essential Job Qualifications

• Must retain a valid Driver’s License and meet the eligibility requirements to drive while conducting company business.

• Current TB test

• Work outdoors in all types of weather and lift heavy objects (up to 50 pounds)

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong work ethic, self-motivated, committed to the vision of the Hattiesburg Zoo.

• Ability to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions

• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with other employees and the general public

• Friendly with public and courteous to visitors, able to provide keeper chats and public encounters in a friendly manner