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Volunteer Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Hoofstock

Houston, TX · On-site

Serves as a positive role model for interns, volunteers, and other keepers and staff. * Demonstrates a clear understanding of the roles AZA zoos play in conservation and saving animals in the wild.

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Hoofstock

Houston, TX · On-site

Serves as a positive role model for interns, volunteers, and other keepers and staff. * Demonstrates a clear understanding of the roles AZA zoos play in conservation and saving animals in the wild.

SHERRILL HOUSE INC

Volunteer

Boston, MA

$1 - $2/hr

Attending resident outings such as (The Franklin Park Zoo, Aquarium, Castle Island and more)! * Special event support * Clerical support Please Note: This is a volunteer position and is unpaid.

Pioneer Trace

Volunteer

Flemingsburg, KY · On-site

Volunteers will work with an activity team to ensure the best experience for both resident and ... Special events - Monthly birthday parties, Valentines party, Easter party, the petting zoo, live ...

Pioneer Trace

Volunteer

Flemingsburg, KY

Special events - Monthly birthday parties, Valentines party, Easter party, the petting zoo, live ... Volunteers are special people and we are glad to have you.

Houston Zoo

Animal Nutrition Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of teenage volunteers, Zoo Crew. * Serves as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and/or other ...

Houston Zoo, Inc.

Animal Nutrition Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

$60 - $85/hr

Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of teenage volunteers, Zoo Crew. * Serves as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and/or other ...

houstonzoo

Animal Nutrition Coordinator

Houston, TX

Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of teenage volunteers, Zoo Crew. * Serves as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and/or other ...

houstonzoo

Animal Nutrition Coordinator

Houston, TX

Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of teenage volunteers, Zoo Crew. * Serves as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and/or other ...

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Volunteer Zookeeper information

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How much do volunteer zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer zookeeper in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer zookeeper?

Volunteer zookeepers are individuals who assist professional zookeepers by helping care for animals, maintaining exhibits, and supporting daily operations at a zoo on an unpaid, voluntary basis. They often help with tasks such as cleaning enclosures, preparing diets, observing animal behavior, and providing enrichment activities. Volunteer zookeepers gain hands-on experience working with a variety of animal species and contribute to the welfare of animals and the zoo's mission. These roles are ideal for those interested in animal care, conservation, or pursuing a career in zoology. Training and supervision are typically provided to ensure safety and proper animal handling.

What are the common responsibilities and challenges faced by a volunteer zookeeper on a typical shift?

Volunteer zookeepers are often responsible for assisting with animal care tasks such as preparing diets, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and helping with enrichment activities. One of the main challenges is adapting to physically demanding work and following strict safety and hygiene protocols. Volunteers also need to be comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and collaborating effectively with experienced zookeepers and other volunteers. This hands-on role provides valuable experience for those interested in animal care or pursuing a career in zoology.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Zookeeper, you need basic animal care knowledge, physical fitness, and a genuine interest in wildlife conservation, often supported by training or coursework in animal science or biology. Familiarity with animal handling tools, cleaning equipment, and adherence to safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for collaborating with staff and ensuring animal welfare. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining a safe, efficient, and enriching environment for both animals and zoo visitors.

What is the difference between Volunteer Zookeeper vs Volunteer Animal Care Assistant?

AspectVolunteer ZookeeperVolunteer Animal Care Assistant
Required CredentialsNone or basic animal handling experienceBasic animal care knowledge, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentZoological parks, wildlife reservesAnimal shelters, rescue centers
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, aquariums, wildlife organizationsAnimal shelters, rescue groups
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Volunteer Zookeepers typically work in zoos or wildlife parks, focusing on animal husbandry and habitat maintenance. Volunteer Animal Care Assistants often support shelters or rescue centers, assisting with daily animal care. Both roles require a passion for animals but differ mainly in work environment and specific responsibilities.

More about Volunteer Zookeeper jobs

What cities are hiring for Volunteer Zookeeper jobs?

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What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs?

The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs are:

What states have the most Volunteer Zookeeper jobs?

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Volunteer Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

ZooScaper Volunteer Program (Unpaid)

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Kansas City, MO

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with maintaining landscaping and horticultural areas, including planting, watering, weeding, mulching, trimming, leaf clean-up, and general landscape maintenance.

  • Support day-of operations and logistics for short-term volunteer group projects, including organizing tools, escorting groups, and explaining project details.

  • Perform other duties or special projects as assigned to support the horticulture department and zoo operations.

Job description

ZOOSCAPER VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
DEPARTMENT
Horticulture
LOCATION
Zoo-Wide
REPORTS TO
Horticulture Volunteer Contact
PURPOSE:
Under general supervision, Zooscaper Volunteers assist with a variety of projects within the Horticulture Department. Projects range from light physical duties such as planting, watering, weeding, and mulching, to more physically demanding projects such as moving deadfall and clearing brush. This position also supports day-of operations and logistics for short-term volunteer groups participating in horticulture projects.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Duties
Percentage
Assists with maintaining Zoo amp; Aquarium’s landscaping and horticultural areas, including:
  • Weeding, mulching, trimming, leaf clean-up, and general landscape maintenance.
  • Supplementary watering.
  • Removing insects from indoor plants.
  • Maintaining flower and landscape beds.
  • Plant propagation and installation.
  • Removing dead plants and other debris from pots and flower beds.
60%
Assists with day-of operations and logistics for short-term volunteer group projects, including:
  • Gathering, organizing, and storing tools for project.
  • Escorting volunteer group to site location.
  • Explaining, monitoring, and helping with project.
  • Communicating the Zoo amp; Aquarium’s conservation and sustainability mission, as it relates to the group volunteer project.
40%
*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo amp; Aquarium.
*All volunteers must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be evaluated to enable volunteers with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their position, absent undue hardship.
LENGTH OF APPOINTMENT:
This position is appointed for a period of three months. After three months, the position may be reappointed at the discretion of the supervisor. Additionally, please note that yearlong opportunities are based on area needs, and supervisor discretion.
TIME COMMITMENT:
The schedule for this position primarily occurs, Tuesday’s and Thursday’s, 8:30 – 12:30pm and/or 11:30 – 3:30pm, but may vary seasonally and based on team needs. This volunteer position must average a minimum of 3 shifts per month during their appointment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • Willing to get dirty and be in all weather extremes.
  • Must have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment and complete assigned tasks.
  • Must be able to lift 25 pounds with or without assistance. Assistance depending upon task or role.
  • Must pass a background screening.
SUPPORT:
Training for this position will be provided. In addition, the Volunteer Contact and Area Manager will be available for questions and assistance.
DRESS CODE:
Neutral colored pants or shorts, provided shirt, comfortable close-toed shoes, and weather appropriate outerwear.

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