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Volunteer Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

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 · 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 ...

Brevard Zoo

Zoo Experience Advisor

Melbourne, FL · On-site

Zoo Experience Advisor Status: Part-Time, FLSA Hourly Non-Exempt Department: Guest Experience ... Working with the volunteers and other staff to ensure guests follow protocol for proper flow.

Oglebay

Oglebay Good Zoo Animal Keeper 2

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Supervises and assigns work to zoo volunteers and interns scheduled in keeper's area of responsibility; assists in training and evaluation of volunteers. Maintains comprehensive records, reports, and ...

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Volunteer Zookeeper information

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How much do volunteer zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 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 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.

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.
More about Volunteer Zookeeper jobs
What cities are hiring for Volunteer Zookeeper jobs? Cities with the most Volunteer 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 Volunteer Zookeeper jobs? States with the most job openings for Volunteer Zookeeper jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Volunteer Zookeeper jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Volunteer Zookeeper jobs are:
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 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Animal Care Volunteer Program (Unpaid)

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

ANIMAL CARE VOLUNTEER
DEPARTMENT
Animal Care
LOCATION
Varies; Zoo-Wide
REPORTS TO
Volunteer Contact
PURPOSE:
The purpose of the Animal Care Volunteer Program is to support the Zoo amp; Aquarium’s animals, employees, and mission. Under direct supervision, Animal Care Volunteers perform routine assignments involving the maintenance and care of Zoo amp; Aquarium habitats.
Specific volunteer duties may vary between each Animal Care Team. Animal Care Volunteers do not have direct contact with the animals in the Zoo amp; Aquarium’s care. Candidates will be considered for all vacancies and may receive an offer to volunteer on one or more teams.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Duties
Percentage
Cleaning and general upkeep of animal habitats and surrounding areas, including but not limited to:
  • Hosing, scrubbing, and sweeping
  • Disinfecting equipment, bathrooms, kitchens, and animal holding areas
  • Washing dishes and doing laundry
  • Taking out trash and recycling
  • Cleaning glass windows on animal habitats
  • Yardwork maintenance, as needed
75%
Supporting the daily care and well-being of animals, including:
  • Assisting with diet prep
  • Preparing enrichment for animals
  • Assisting with animal observations
20%
Engaging with visitors to answer questions about Zoo amp; Aquarium animals
5%
*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. Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.
*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 for another three months at the discretion of the supervisor. After six months, the person who is serving may rotate to another volunteer position within the Zoo amp; Aquarium, pending approval. Additionally, please note that yearlong opportunities are based on area needs, and supervisor discretion.
TIME COMMITMENT:
Shift availability varies for each Animal Care team. Shifts 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 18 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 be stationary for extended periods of time.
  • Must be willing to complete basic animal safety courses prior to commitment.
  • Must pass a background screening.
  • Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
SUPPORT:
Training for this position will be provided. In addition, the Area Manager and Volunteer Contact 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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