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Seasonal Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Zoo Educator

Grand Rapids, MI

$14/hr

As a Zoo Educator, you'll facilitate school groups ages K-12 in STEM lessons including Penguineering, Exhibit Design, and provide behind the scenes tours of areas like our Commissary and Aquarium.

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John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

SENIOR ZOOKEEPER The Area 2 Senior Zookeeper performs general daily animal care functions including ... seasonal people guided by our core values accomplish this mission. Our core values are:

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How much do seasonal zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal zookeeper in the United States is $14.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.06 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Seasonal Zookeeper vs Full-Time Zookeeper?

AspectSeasonal ZookeeperFull-Time Zookeeper
CredentialsHigh school diploma, animal care experienceSame as seasonal, often with additional certifications
Work EnvironmentLimited to specific seasons, outdoor and indoor animal habitatsYear-round, similar environments
Employer & IndustryZoological parks, aquariums, wildlife centersSame as seasonal, with ongoing employment
Work HoursPart-time or seasonal hoursFull-time, consistent schedule

Seasonal Zookeepers and full-time Zookeepers share similar responsibilities and work environments, but seasonal roles are temporary and tied to specific seasons. Full-time Zookeepers work year-round with more stability. Both roles require animal care skills and relevant experience, but full-time positions may demand additional certifications and longer commitments.

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

Seasonal zookeeper positions often require some animal care knowledge or related experience, but entry-level roles may be available for those willing to learn on the job. Having relevant skills such as teamwork, physical fitness, and a passion for animals can improve your chances, even without prior experience. Certifications like first aid or animal handling can also be beneficial for entry-level applicants.

What are some common challenges faced by a seasonal zookeeper, and how can they be managed?

Seasonal Zookeepers often face the challenge of quickly adapting to the zoo's routines, animal care protocols, and team dynamics within a short timeframe. Additionally, they may experience physically demanding work and exposure to outdoor weather conditions. To manage these challenges, it's important to be proactive in learning from permanent staff, maintaining clear communication, and staying organized with daily tasks. Flexibility and a positive attitude can also help Seasonal Zookeepers navigate the fast pace and varied responsibilities typical of this role.

What is a seasonal zookeeper?

Seasonal Zookeepers are animal care professionals who work at zoos, wildlife parks, or aquariums on a temporary, usually short-term, basis. Their primary responsibilities include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with enrichment activities to promote natural behaviors. Seasonal positions are often available during peak visitor times, such as summer or holiday seasons, and may also involve interacting with the public and supporting educational programs. These roles are ideal for individuals interested in gaining experience in animal care or pursuing a career as a full-time zookeeper.

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

To thrive as a Seasonal Zookeeper, you need knowledge of animal care, husbandry, and biology, often supported by a degree in zoology or related experience in animal handling. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding protocols, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills set outstanding zookeepers apart in dynamic environments. These skills ensure animal welfare, public safety, and efficient operation of zoo facilities during busy seasons.

Is it hard to get a job as a seasonal zookeeper?

Securing a seasonal zookeeper position can be competitive, as many applicants seek these roles during peak times. Relevant experience with animals, certifications such as first aid or animal handling, and flexibility with schedules can improve chances of hiring. Job availability often depends on the facility's needs and budget constraints.
More about Seasonal Zookeeper jobs
What cities are hiring for Seasonal Zookeeper jobs? Cities with the most Seasonal Zookeeper job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Seasonal Zookeeper jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Seasonal Zookeeper jobs are:
Seasonal Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seasonal Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,848 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Creation Museum Zookeeper Seasonal

Answers in Genesis

Petersburg, KY • On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Answers in Genesis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 18 rated religious organizations

Job description

Creation Museum Zookeeper Seasonal

Creation Museum - Petersburg, KY 41080

Overview

Position Type Seasonal Category Zoo

Description

A seasonal zookeeper is responsible for providing an enjoyable experience to guests visiting the Creation Zoo; the duties of this position include staffing interactive areas throughout the zoo and assisting zoo staff with animal husbandry, including habitat upkeep and diet preparation. The ideal candidate is enthusiastic, energetic, and passionate about serving others.

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 while having fun along the way.

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.
  • Ensure safety of guests, animals, and fellow staff members in performance of job
  • Guest engagement within the zoo and greater attraction
    • Joyfully operate contact areas, ensuring guest and animal safety
    • Energetically interact with guests in the zoo
    • Conduct surprises and delights for guests throughout the day
    • Assist with keeper chats and animal encounters
  • Assist zoo staff in animal husbandry tasks
    • Cleaning and upkeep of animal habitats
    • Preparation for animal diets
    • Ability and willingness to develop zookeeping skills
  • Ability to work holidays and weekends
  • Willingness to work around a wide range of animals, from invertebrates to hoofstock
  • And all other duties and responsibilities assigned by management.
Qualifications

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 at least 18 years of age

Education & Experience

  • Minimum of one year of experience working in an animal care field and/or pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in zoology or a related field.
  • Customer service skills

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
  • Completion of a Motor Vehicle Report

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