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Volunteer Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Boise, ID

Zoo Director

Boise, ID · On-site

$135K - $157K/yr

Parks & Rec Zoo Boise, Boise, ID Job Type: Full Time Regular Job Number: 23 -07708 Department ... adults, including volunteer and event management. Support global animal and environmental ...

City of Boise

Zoo Director

Boise, ID

$135K - $157K/yr

The Zoo Director will set strategic direction, elevate and empower a high-performing team, and ... adults, including volunteer and event management. Support global animal and environmental ...

Audubon Institute

Zoo Keeper (Primates)

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

... zookeeper duties; work under minimal supervision in a wide range of functions; may supervisor volunteer staff; initiate and participate in training and behavioral enrichment. This position works ...

New

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 ...

mkecounty

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

Check Zooissued ID badges for employees, vendors, contractors, Zoological Society staff, members, volunteers, and Zoo class/camp participants. May also create ID badges, monitor security cameras, and ...

mkecounty

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

Check Zooissued ID badges for employees, vendors, contractors, Zoological Society staff, members, volunteers, and Zoo class/camp participants. May also create ID badges, monitor security cameras, and ...

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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?

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:

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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.

Facilities Seasonal Staff

Lincoln Park Zoological Society

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY
Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for- profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
This person contributes to the success of the Lincoln Park Zoological Society by performing routine duties and functions in order to meet operating needs contributing to the safety, cleanliness, beauty and aesthetics of the park for guests, staff and the animal collection. This person will be expected to complete general work orders as assigned by Management while working with a variety of materials such as, wood, fiberglass, rebar, and concrete. They must be committed to learn and train on new equipment and skills to accomplish day-to-day work orders, department requests, routine maintenance, and/or larger projects as needed. While working both independently and within the Facilities team, this person should be committed to learning basic skills in a variety of areas not limited to carpentry, masonry, metal fabrication, roofing, welding, and pond maintenance. This person will work closely with Facilities management and team to complete a variety of projects throughout the park, including but not limited to,
  • Maintain fencing, fixtures, walkways, cement walls, roofing, and other infrastructure throughout the Zoo
  • Assemble and install furniture and fixtures throughout the zoo
  • Complete basic maintenance to all zoo vehicles including golf carts, gators, forklift, bobcats, etc

  • Perform basic interior and exterior maintenance of zoo buildings as needed
  • Maintain the zoo signage
  • Perform inventory and work order management in accordance with AZA and USDA requirements
  • Wears the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed
  • Complete projects requiring artistic creativity, visual arts, and design
  • Promote good public relations and provides exceptional guest experiences
  • Work closely with other zoo staff throughout all departments
  • Maintain shop inventory and cleanliness communicating with Lead or direct supervisor regarding needed materials
  • Perform related work as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • General maintenance and/or construction knowledge and experience
  • Ability to work in a high-pressure environment, always following safety protocols
  • General knowledge of animal safety
  • Ability to think outside of the box while working both independently and within a team
  • Knowledge of the Zoo's mission and philosophy
  • Basic Computer knowledge.
  • Sound shop organizational skills
  • Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Consistently exhibits professionalism, tact, and maturity in interactions.
  • Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision, must be self-directed

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
  • A high school diploma or comparable combination of education, experience, or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills, and ability required may qualify individuals.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
  • Minimum 2 years of actual construction / maintenance experience.
  • Knowledge of basic construction materials and processes.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to traverse zoo grounds.
  • Must be physically able to exert up to 50 lbs. of force on a regular basis to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch and work on ladders or scaffolding.
  • The employee will be exposed frequently to outside, potentially adverse, weather conditions.
  • The employee will be regularly exposed to water, solvents, chemicals, and potentially loud noises.
  • Ability to exercise safe work habits in proximity of potentially dangerous animals and equipment
  • Risk exposure to fairly predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animals and zoonotic diseases
  • Willingness to scale ladders and work at high vertical locations

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Available to work special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule, including evenings, weekends, or holidays, as assigned.
  • A valid Illinois driver's license and maintenance of a good driving record is required.

Our Commitment
Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All.
LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS
Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
  • Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
  • Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
  • Quarterly staff mingle events and "LPZooU" training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
  • A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

Compensation: $17.05/hr

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