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How much do wild animal jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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.

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
Infographic showing various Wild Animal job openings in the United States as of May 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 $43,783 per year, or $21 per hour.
Wild Animal Keeper, Mammals

Wild Animal Keeper, Mammals

New York Aquarium

New York, NY

$48K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Title: Wild Animal Keeper
Reports To: Supervisor of Animals/Animal Dept. Curator
Position Managed: N/A
Department: Animal Programs
Location: Bronx  Zoo
Employment Type: Union, Full-Time
Pay Range: $48,119.00 per year
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 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 the installation of plant material, perches and exhibit props such as rocks and logs, monitoring water quality, addition of substrates, and cleaning of exhibit glass and graphic panels.
  • 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.  
  • Observe the animals entrusted to his/her care and report promptly on any indication of illness.
  • Carry out the veterinarian's instructions for the care of sick animals and follow all protocols established for the daily care of the animals.
  • Participate in Bronx Zoo animal behavior programs to facilitate animal management and to enhance and enrich the daily lives of the animals in our care.
  • Develop animal conditioning skills and techniques. Implement department programs to condition behaviors and acclimate both naive and experienced animals to exhibits.  
  • Participate in daily enrichment programs.
  • Aid the general public and provide information concerning the Bronx Zoo, visitor services, exhibits and the animal collection.
  • Enforce the Bronx Zoo's 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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