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Zoo Animal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

Fort Worth Zoo

Temporary Bird Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$17/hr

Demonstrated knowledge of: • Operations, services, and activities of a zoo animal program • Methods and techniques of handling a variety of animals • Proper feeding and diet requirements of a ...

Fort Worth Zoo

Temporary Mammal Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

Demonstrated knowledge of: • Operations, services, and activities of a zoo animal program • Methods and techniques of handling a variety of animals • Proper feeding and diet requirements of a ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Senior Keeper - Great Apes

Omaha, NE · On-site

$20.49/hr

Participate in zoo wide animal training workshops. * Assist in maintaining standardized enrichment programs using the life strategies approach developed for the zoo. This includes assessing ...

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Zoo Animal information

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How much do zoo animal jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo animal in the United States is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo animal?

Zoo animals are a diverse group of animals that are kept in zoos for purposes such as conservation, education, research, and public display. These animals can include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and sometimes fish and invertebrates. Zoos aim to provide environments that replicate the animals' natural habitats as closely as possible, while also ensuring their health and welfare. Many zoos participate in breeding programs and conservation initiatives to help protect endangered species.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoo animal keeper?

To thrive as a Zoo Animal Keeper, you need a solid background in animal science, biology, or zoology, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience working with animals. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and enrichment techniques is commonly required. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring animal welfare and collaborating with team members. These competencies are vital for maintaining the health and wellbeing of zoo animals while promoting a safe and educational environment for staff and visitors.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeepers when caring for zoo animals, and how are these challenges typically addressed?

Zookeepers often encounter challenges such as meeting the complex dietary, behavioral, and health needs of a diverse range of animals. Adapting care routines for different species, monitoring for signs of illness, and ensuring enrichment to prevent boredom are all part of the daily responsibilities. Teamwork and clear communication with veterinary staff, nutritionists, and other keepers are essential to address these challenges effectively. Continuous training and professional development help zookeepers stay updated on best practices for animal welfare.

What is the difference between Zoo Animal vs Zoo Keeper?

AspectZoo AnimalZoo Keeper
CredentialsNone required; biological knowledge helpfulRelevant certifications (e.g., zookeeper certification), experience in animal care
Work EnvironmentAnimals in zoo habitatsAnimal enclosures, animal care areas, and public interaction zones
Industry UsageRefers to the animals themselvesRefers to the professional caring for animals
Search IntentInformation about animals in zoosCareers and job roles in zoos

Zoo Animal describes the animals kept in zoos, focusing on their species and characteristics. Zoo Keeper refers to the professionals responsible for caring for these animals, ensuring their health and well-being. While Zoo Animals are the subjects, Zoo Keepers are the caretakers. Understanding this distinction helps clarify job roles versus animal types in the industry.

What jobs can you get in a zoo?

Zoo jobs include roles such as zookeeper, animal keeper, veterinarian, education specialist, and conservationist. These positions often require specific training or degrees in biology, zoology, or related fields, and may involve working with animals, maintaining habitats, or educating visitors. Staff typically work in shifts and follow safety protocols to ensure animal and visitor safety.

What jobs work with zoo animals?

Jobs that work with zoo animals include zookeeper, animal keeper, veterinary technician, animal trainer, and conservation biologist. These roles typically require knowledge of animal behavior, safety protocols, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees in biology or zoology. Staff in these positions are responsible for animal care, enrichment, and ensuring the health and well-being of the animals in a zoo environment.
More about Zoo Animal jobs

What cities are hiring for Zoo Animal jobs?

Cities with the most Zoo Animal job openings:

What states have the most Zoo Animal jobs?

States with the most job openings for Zoo Animal jobs include:

Zoo Animal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Animal job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,056 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Phillips Park Zoo - Seasonal Worker 2026

Aurora Illinois

Aurora, IL • On-site

$17.29 - $20.64/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

The City of Aurora is accepting applications for seasonal job positions for the Phillips Park Zoo. Positions are available from approximately March through November.
The Phillips Park Zoo Seasonal Worker functions as a team member on the Phillips Park Zoo Animal Care and maintenance staff. Animal care and maintenance staff are responsible for providing care to the zoo's residents animals, operating the park "Tram", Butterfly tent and providing interpretive tours, etc. Staff also care for the zoo grounds and exhibits, mowing and parking yards, planting, and weeding gardens, and removing trash/cleaning paths and walkways. The position reports to management staff.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Cleaning animal habitats and holding areas, as directed.
  • Diet preparation and feeding.
  • Assisting with medical care/animal restrains.
  • Maintain exhibit and life support system.
  • Conducting record keeping.
  • Mowing/Trimming of assigned areas.
  • Hosing walkways, trash removal tasks.
  • Operating small equipment such as carts, mowers, trimmers, and blowers.
  • Shovel sand, mulch, chipped stones, etc.
  • Tram operations, driving or narrating.
  • Maintenance of zoo planted areas & flower beds (planting, weeding, and watering)
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:
  • Ability to work safely around animals.
  • Ability to understand and carry out verbal instructions.
  • Ability to operate equipment safely.
  • Ability to interact with the public and perform formal/scripted presentations.
  • Ability to communicate with coworkers positively and effectively.
  • Ability to complete tasks independently, and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must be licensed to drive in the state of Illinois

Must be able to pass a physical, drug screen, and background investigation.
The hourly wage is $17.29 - $20.64/hour, depending on qualifications.
Seasonal employees may receive preference in consideration for potential promotional opportunities within the City.
Applications should be submitted online.
*Applicants may be contacted regarding their interest in seasonal positions in other Divisions in the City.
*Applicants will only be contacted if selected to move forward in the hiring process.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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