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Seasonal Zoo Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Bloomington Illinois

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K/yr

Chair or sit as a member of various zoo committees as assigned. Participate in the development and performance of keeper training classes for interns and staff. Train and mentor Seasonal Zookeepers ...

City of Garden City, KS

Animal Keeper

Garden City, KS · On-site

$18.93 - $23.08/hr

Zoo Animal Care Opening Date: 08/21/2026 Closing Date: 9/4/2026 11:59 PM Central Description The ... Assists with training for new keepers or seasonal staff as assigned. * Documents observations and ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

... Keeper Chats) and answers guests questions about animals and exhibits. This engagement of Zoo ... seasonal employees; however, this position does not have any direct reports. Work Environment Must ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper - Primates

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

... Keeper Chats) and answer guests' questions about animals and exhibits. This engagement of the Zoo ... seasonal employees; however, this position does not have any direct reports. Work Environment Must ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Why Join Us? As a Zoo Intern, you'll work alongside experienced keepers to learn the daily ... This seasonal internship requires 250 hours over 10-12 weeks. Interns must select a set shift for ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper - Primates

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

... Keeper Chats) and answer guests' questions about animals and exhibits. This engagement of the Zoo ... seasonal employees; however, this position does not have any direct reports. Work Environment Must ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

... Keeper Chats) and answers guests questions about animals and exhibits. This engagement of Zoo ... seasonal employees; however, this position does not have any direct reports. Work Environment Must ...

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Why Join Us? As a Zoo Intern, you'll work alongside experienced keepers to learn the daily ... This seasonal internship requires 250 hours over 10-12 weeks. Interns must select a set shift for ...

City of Garden City (KS)

Animal Keeper

Garden City, KS · On-site

$18.93 - $23.08/hr

Disposes of trash and debris in zoo. Maintains landscaping and grounds for and around habitats ... Assists with training for new keepers or seasonal staff as assigned. Documents observations and ...

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Seasonal Zoo Keeper information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do seasonal zoo keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal 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 is a seasonal zoo keeper?

Seasonal zoo keepers are animal care professionals who work at zoos or wildlife parks on a temporary or seasonal basis, often during peak visitor months or to cover for permanent staff. Their duties typically include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with educational programs or special events. Seasonal positions are ideal for those looking to gain hands-on experience in animal care, often as a step toward a full-time zookeeping career. These jobs usually last for several months and may require weekend or holiday work.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a seasonal zoo keeper?

To thrive as a Seasonal Zoo Keeper, you need foundational knowledge of animal husbandry, basic biology, and previous animal care experience, often supported by a degree or coursework in zoology or a related field. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and equipment for cleaning enclosures is typically required. Strong observational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in caring for animals and interacting with visitors. These skills ensure animal welfare, public safety, and positive guest experiences in a dynamic zoological environment.

What challenges do seasonal zoo keepers face during peak visitor periods?

Seasonal Zoo Keepers often experience increased workloads and heightened guest interaction during peak periods, such as holidays and summer months. Managing animal care routines while accommodating larger crowds can be challenging, requiring excellent time management and communication skills. Seasonal staff must remain attentive to animal well-being and safety protocols, even when schedules are busier than usual. Additionally, they may assist with educational programs or visitor questions, making flexibility and a positive attitude essential.

What is the difference between Seasonal Zoo Keeper vs Full-Time Zoo Keeper?

AspectSeasonal Zoo KeeperFull-Time Zoo Keeper
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require animal care certificationsSame as seasonal; often requires additional experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentLimited to specific seasons or peak times; outdoor and animal care settingsYear-round; similar outdoor and animal care environments
Employment DurationTemporary, seasonal employmentPermanent, ongoing employment
Job ResponsibilitiesAnimal feeding, habitat maintenance, assisting with exhibits during peak seasonsDaily animal care, habitat management, educational programs

In summary, Seasonal Zoo Keepers work temporarily during peak seasons with similar responsibilities as Full-Time Zoo Keepers but on a limited basis. Full-Time Zoo Keepers have year-round duties and ongoing employment, often requiring more experience or certifications.

How hard is it to get a seasonal zoo keeper job?

Securing a seasonal zoo keeper position typically requires relevant experience with animals, such as volunteering or internships, and often a background in biology or animal science. Competition can be moderate, and having certifications like first aid or animal handling can improve chances; scheduling may involve working weekends or holidays. The application process usually involves submitting a resume and interview, with some positions requiring background checks.

How much can a seasonal zoo keeper make?

A seasonal zoo keeper typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, with annual earnings varying based on location, experience, and the length of the seasonal employment. Some positions may offer additional benefits or opportunities for skill development in animal care and habitat maintenance.

Is it hard to get a job as a seasonal zoo keeper?

Securing a seasonal zoo keeper position can be competitive, as many applicants seek these roles during peak times. Relevant experience with animals, good physical fitness, and certifications such as first aid or animal handling can improve chances, but availability depends on the specific zoo and its staffing needs.
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Seasonal Zoo Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seasonal Zoo Keeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,573 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Safari Animal Park Zoo Keeper

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

Sandusky, OH • On-site

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago

Kalahari Resorts rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 109 rated hotels

Job description

Safari Adventures Animal Park is a unique, educational & interactive experience that allows guests to get up-close and personal animal encounters. A Zookeeper interacts with a wide range of animals while teaching guests about the caretaking and fun facts of the animals.
A Day in the Life
  • Assist in the care of animals at Safari Adventures
  • Help prepare diets and bottle feed animals
  • Clean animal exhibits
  • Answer questions and educate guests on fun facts about each animal
  • Engage and build rapport with guests
  • Must have a valid driver's License

This role is seasonal from May - November.
The Safari Adventure Animal Park is located within Kalahari Resorts Outdoor Waterpark and is operated by Wild Acres Ranch - Safari Adventures.

What Kalahari Resorts employees say

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