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The Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston, TX · On-site

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II, Primates

Houston, TX · On-site

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

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 ...

FRESNOS CHAFFEE ZOO CORPORATION

Zoo Ranger

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17.78 - $18.66/hr

The Zoo Ranger supports FCZC's mission and vision by building community trust and providing a safe and welcoming environment for all of our guests and employees. We are pleased to offer this ...

New

FRESNOS CHAFFEE ZOO CORP

Zoo Ranger

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17.78 - $18.66/hr

The Zoo Ranger supports FCZC's mission and vision by building community trust and providing a safe and welcoming environment for all of our guests and employees. We are pleased to offer this ...

New

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Hoofstock

Houston, TX · On-site

Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and Responsibilities * Observes and evaluates animal condition, behavior and responses and communicates observations ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Primates

Houston, TX · On-site

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston, TX

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston, TX

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Primates

Houston, TX · On-site

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

mkecounty

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

Under the direction of Zoo Security leadership, the Zoo Worker - Security ensures a safe and secure environment for employees, guests, vendors, contractors, and animals. Key duties include protecting ...

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All JobsThe Zoo Jobs

The Zoo information

What is the difference between The Zoo vs Animal Keeper?

AspectThe ZooAnimal Keeper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may enhance prospectsSimilar; often requires relevant certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentPublic, educational, and conservation-focused setting within a zooHands-on animal care in zoo or sanctuary environments
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizationsZoos, animal sanctuaries, wildlife centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsJob duties, qualifications, and work environment

Both The Zoo and Animal Keeper roles involve caring for animals in similar settings like zoos and wildlife centers. While The Zoo may refer broadly to the organization or facility, Animal Keeper is a specific job title focused on daily animal care. Candidates interested in working with animals in such environments should consider the required credentials and work environment when exploring these roles.

What are zoo workers?

Zoo workers are professionals who are responsible for the care, management, and education of animals housed in zoos. Their duties can include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, assisting veterinarians, and educating the public about wildlife and conservation. Zoo workers may have various job titles, such as zookeepers, animal care specialists, educators, or curators. They play a crucial role in promoting animal welfare and supporting conservation efforts in both local and global contexts.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeepers when working with a diverse range of animal species?

Zookeepers often encounter challenges related to managing the unique needs of various animal species, such as providing appropriate diets, enrichment, and healthcare routines. Each species may have specific behavioral patterns and environmental requirements, demanding adaptability and close attention to detail from the keeper. Additionally, zookeepers must work collaboratively with veterinarians and other animal care staff to monitor animal health and ensure enclosures meet safety standards. Effective communication and ongoing learning are essential to successfully navigate these complexities and provide the best care for zoo residents.

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

To thrive as a Zookeeper, you need a background in animal science or biology, hands-on animal care experience, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding protocols, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the well-being of animals, facilitate educational outreach, and support smooth daily operations within the zoo environment.
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The Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various The Zoo job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.
Zookeeper II, Birds

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston Zoo

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Houston Zoo rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 34 rated wildlife parks and zoos

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 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.
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 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.
  • May assist 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.
  • May be 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 may oversee and direct activities of teenage volunteers, Zoo Crew.
  • May assist Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects.
  • 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 develop leadership skills.
  • 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
  • Contributes to other operational priorities as needed. .

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) from four-year college or university; or equivalent combination of education and experience. .
  • Three 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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