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Wild Animal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Wild Animal Sanctuary

Mechanic

Keenesburg, CO · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe-haven for rescued animals to live out the ...

The Wild Animal Sanctuary

Mechanic

Keenesburg, CO

$70K - $90K/yr

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe-haven for rescued animals to live out the ...

The Wild Animal Sanctuary

Mechanic

Keenesburg, CO · On-site

The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe-haven for rescued animals to live out the ...

Apply Early

Wild Animal Safari-GA

Fleet Mechanic

Pine Mountain, GA · On-site

$25/hr

Wild Animal Safari is seeking a skilled Fleet Mechanic to maintain and repair our diverse fleet of vehicles and equipment that help keep the zoo running smoothly. This is a hands-on role working on ...

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How much do wild animal jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for wild animal in the United States is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by wildlife biologists when studying wild animals in their natural habitats?

Wildlife biologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable animal behavior, difficult terrain, and extreme weather conditions while studying wild animals in the field. They must also take precautions to minimize their impact on animal populations and ecosystems. Additionally, working in remote locations can require extended time away from home, making strong adaptability and self-sufficiency important traits. Collaboration with local communities and government agencies is often necessary to ensure ethical and effective research.

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

To thrive as a Wildlife Biologist, you need a strong background in biology, ecology, and environmental science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and field data collection equipment is essential. Excellent observation skills, critical thinking, and clear communication help in interpreting data and collaborating with colleagues or stakeholders. These skills ensure effective research, conservation planning, and the protection of wildlife and their habitats.

What are wild animals?

Wild animals are animals that live and survive in natural environments without direct human intervention. They are not domesticated and can be found in habitats such as forests, grasslands, deserts, and oceans. Wild animals play important roles in their ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and ecological balance. Unlike pets or livestock, wild animals are generally self-sufficient and rely on their instincts and natural behaviors to find food, shelter, and mates.

What jobs are there around animals?

Jobs related to animals include wildlife biologists, zookeepers, animal trainers, conservation officers, veterinary technicians, and animal shelter workers. These roles often require knowledge of animal behavior, relevant certifications, and working in environments such as zoos, wildlife reserves, or veterinary clinics.

What wildlife job pays the most?

Wildlife biologists and conservation managers often earn the highest salaries in wildlife-related careers, especially those with advanced degrees and specialized skills. Senior roles in wildlife management, research, or environmental consulting can pay six-figure salaries, particularly with experience and certifications in GIS, data analysis, or ecological modeling.

What is the difference between Wild Animal vs Wildlife Rehabilitator?

AspectWild AnimalWildlife Rehabilitator
CredentialsMay require permits, basic knowledge of animal careRequires specialized training, permits, and certifications in animal care and rehabilitation
Work EnvironmentWild habitats, zoos, rescue centersRehabilitation centers, wildlife hospitals, outdoor and indoor facilities
Employer & IndustryZoos, wildlife reserves, conservation agenciesWildlife rescue organizations, rehabilitation centers, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in wildlife managementSeeking careers in animal rescue and rehabilitation

Wild Animal professionals typically work in the field or in facilities managing wild species, often with permits. Wildlife Rehabilitators focus on caring for injured or orphaned wild animals, requiring specialized training and permits. While both roles involve wildlife, Wild Animal work emphasizes management and observation, whereas Wildlife Rehabilitators specialize in medical care and recovery.

What careers work with wild animals?

Careers that work with wild animals include wildlife biologists, zookeepers, conservation officers, wildlife rehabilitators, and environmental educators. These roles often require knowledge of animal behavior, fieldwork skills, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees in biology, ecology, or related fields.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Wild animal-related careers that can reach $500,000 annually include specialized roles such as wildlife conservation executives, high-level zoologists, or owners of private wildlife reserves. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and entrepreneurial or leadership skills in managing large-scale projects or businesses. Most high-paying roles in this field are rare and typically involve significant responsibility and expertise.
More about Wild Animal jobs
What cities are hiring for Wild Animal jobs? Cities with the most Wild Animal job openings:
What states have the most Wild Animal jobs? States with the most job openings for Wild Animal jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wild Animal jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wild Animal jobs are:
Wild Animal jobs near you
Provisional Wild Animal Keeper, Central Park Zoo

Provisional Wild Animal Keeper, Central Park Zoo

New York Aquarium

New York, NY

$48K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Title: Provisional Wild Animal Keeper
Reports To: Supervisor of Animals/Animal Dept. Curator
Department: Animal Programs 
Location: Central Park Zoo
Employment Type: Union, Full-Time
Salary $48,117
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS):
WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world's premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean.  We build on a unique foundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence.  Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.
Position Summary:
To perform any authorized activity necessary for the safe proper and humane management and maintenance of the animal collection, exhibits, holding facilities and associated service.
Principal Responsibilities:
  • Perform safe, proper and humane care of assigned animals according to established protocols or under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and /or the supervisory/curatorial staff;
  • Prepare animal diets according to established protocols or under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff;
  • Perform safe and proper maintenance of assigned animal exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas according to established protocols or under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff;
  • Assist curatorial/supervisory staff in developing safe, proper and humane protocols for the management and maintenance of the animal collection, exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas;
  • Participate in the modification and enhancement of animal exhibits under the direction of the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff to include, but not limited to, installation of plant material, perches and exhibit props such as rocks and logs;
  • Inspect animal exhibits, holding facilities and associated service areas to ensure that they are clean, well lit, properly ventilated, properly heated or cooled, and that all mechanical systems are operating properly. Report any deficiencies and/or required maintenance to the appropriate senior wild animal keeper, or the supervisory/curatorial staff. Make any minor repairs necessary to assure safe, proper and human animal management;
  • Observe assigned animals for any changes in activity pattern, social behavior, feeding behavior and food preference, any abnormal behavior or evidence of injury and illness, any indications of sexual behavior or sexual cycle. Summarize these and any other observations relevant to safe, proper and humane management in a daily report submitted to the appropriate senior wild animal keeper and the supervisory/curatorial staff. Promptly report anything which might require immediate action to the appropriate senior animal keeper or the supervisory/curatorial staff;
  • Carry out the veterinarian's instructions for the care of sick and injured animals and summarize required procedures in a daily report submitted to the appropriate senior wild animal keeper or the supervisory/curatorial staff;
  • Submit a daily report to the appropriate senior animal keeper and the supervisory/curatorial staff which summarizes events/changes in the animal collection and staff activities of within assigned work areas, identifies required maintenance, and lists needed supplies and equipment;
  • Serve as acting Senior Wild Animal Keeper in their absence if instructed by the supervisory/curatorial staff;
  • Aid the general public and provide information concerning the Central Park Zoo, visitor services, exhibits and the animal collection;
  • Enforce the Central Park Zoo visitor rules and regulations;
  • Perform other related tasks and duties at the instruction of senior animal keepers and/or the supervisory/curatorial staff.

 

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