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Trainee Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Montefiore

Pediatric, Echo Attending (JR227118)

Bronx, NY · On-site

$250K - $325K/yr

The Bronx is an eclectic community with excellent cuisine, a world-renowned zoo, a botanical garden ... We are particularly interested in applicants with research experience and an interest in trainee ...

Indiana UniversityHealth

Radiology, Chest

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$305K - $382K/yr

... trainees, and engagement in scholarly activities aligned with the academic mission of Indiana ... Vibrant downtown offering arts, theaters, world-class museums, zoo, concerts and memorials * Named ...

Indiana UniversityHealth

Radiology, Chest

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$305K - $382K/yr

... trainees, and engagement in scholarly activities aligned with the academic mission of Indiana ... Vibrant downtown offering arts, theaters, world-class museums, zoo, concerts and memorials * Named ...

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Trainee Zookeeper information

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How much do trainee zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee zookeeper in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee zookeeper?

Trainee zookeepers are entry-level professionals who assist with the daily care and management of animals in zoos or wildlife parks while learning the skills needed for a full zookeeping role. Their responsibilities often include cleaning enclosures, preparing food, monitoring animal health, and supporting educational programs. Trainee zookeepers work under the supervision of experienced staff, gaining hands-on experience and knowledge about animal husbandry, welfare, and conservation practices. This role is typically the first step in a zookeeping career and provides essential training for advancement in the field.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Zookeeper, you generally need a background in animal care, biology, or zoology, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with animal husbandry tools, safety protocols, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining safe environments, and supporting smooth zoo operations.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee zookeepers during their initial months on the job?

Trainee zookeepers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physically demanding nature of the work, quickly learning the specific care routines for a variety of animal species, and managing early morning or weekend shifts. Additionally, building confidence in animal handling and safely following strict biosecurity and safety protocols can be difficult at first. However, with guidance from experienced keepers and hands-on practice, most trainees become more comfortable and proficient over time.

What is the difference between Trainee Zookeeper vs Zookeeper?

AspectTrainee ZookeeperZookeeper
QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some animal care experienceRelevant experience; often requires certifications or training
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility for animal care and habitat maintenance
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with animal feeding, cleaning, and observationPerforming daily animal care, habitat management, and record-keeping

The main difference between a Trainee Zookeeper and a Zookeeper is experience level. Trainee Zookeepers are in training, assisting with tasks under supervision, while Zookeepers are fully responsible for animal care. Trainees are gaining skills and certifications, preparing for full Zookeeper roles.

Can you work as a trainee zookeeper without a degree?

Trainee zookeeper positions typically do not require a formal degree, but relevant experience, such as volunteering or internships, is often preferred. Employers may also look for skills in animal care, teamwork, and safety protocols, and some certifications can enhance your chances of being hired.

How to start a career as a Trainee Zookeeper?

To start a career as a Trainee Zookeeper, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience with animals through volunteering or internships. Relevant skills include animal handling, teamwork, and knowledge of safety protocols; some positions may require a background in biology or related fields. Entry-level roles often involve assisting senior zookeepers and learning about animal care and habitat maintenance.

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

Securing a trainee zookeeper position can be competitive due to limited openings and the need for relevant experience or education in animal care or biology. Candidates often need to demonstrate a strong interest in wildlife, be willing to work irregular hours, and sometimes obtain certifications such as first aid or animal handling training.

What cities are hiring for Trainee Zookeeper jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Zookeeper job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs?

The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Zookeeper jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Zookeeper jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Trainee Zookeeper jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee Zookeeper jobs are:

Trainee Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Pediatric Cardiac Intensivist

Montefiore Medical Center

Bronx, NY

$300K - $375K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide care for hospitalized children with cardiac conditions as part of the pediatric cardiology team.

  • Participate in the education of learners at all levels, including fellows and residents.

  • Contribute to research activities and professional growth within an academic center.

Job description

Pediatric Cardiology 
Pediatric Cardiac Intensivist 
The Division of Pediatric Cardiology in the Department of Pediatrics at The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM) and Albert Einstein School of Medicine is seeking a board certified/eligible Pediatric Cardiac Intensivist at any academic level to join our dynamic and growing faculty. CHAM is a quaternary care, academic children’s hospital in New York City, serving the diverse patient population of the Bronx, Westchester County, and the Hudson Valley. 
Candidates must have completed fellowship training in Pediatric Cardiology and/or Critical Care that included advanced Cardiac Intensive Care Training. Preference will be given to those who are boarded in pediatric cardiology and interested in an academic center with research and leadership opportunities for the candidate’s professional growth.
Our ideal candidate will be energetic, enthusiastic, and will have the ability to work effectively as part of a team. We are particularly interested in applicants with research experience and an interest in trainee education.  The candidate must be an outstanding clinician dedicated to the care of hospitalized children and their families, and an excellent teacher of learners at all levels.
The Division of Pediatric Cardiology at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore is growing and consists of pediatric cardiologists with specialist expertise in all subspecialty fields including:  fetal cardiology, heart failure and transplant, cardiac catheterization, electrophysiology, cardiac intensive care, preventive cardiology, and adult congenital heart disease. The Division has an ACGME accredited pediatric cardiology fellowship program with four fellows and rotating residents.  The Division has offices in the Bronx and Westchester and provides over 9,000 consultation and follow-up visits to children and 400 adult congenital heart disease visits per year in the region.  
All members of the Division have faculty appointments at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, a major biomedical and clinical research facility. The Bronx is an eclectic community with excellent cuisine, a world-renowned zoo, a botanical garden, and is in close proximity to Westchester County, midtown Manhattan, and Northern NJ. 
In addition to a competitive salary of $300,000-$375,000 commensurate with academic rank, we offer the opportunity to enhance compensation with clinical productivity incentives and bonuses. We offer a generous benefits package including 403b with employer match, 457, tuition reimbursement, long term disability, short term disability, life insurance, paid malpractice, health, dental and vision benefits and funds for CME activities. 
Interested individuals should email a current CV to John C. Pinto, Recruiting Manager at jpinto@montefiore.org 
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Montefiore is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status.

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