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Zoo Grounds Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oglebay

Oglebay Good Zoo Animal Keeper 2

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Maintains horticulture and grounds in and around animal habitats using tools such as lawn mowers ... Supervises and assigns work to zoo volunteers and interns scheduled in keeper's area of ...

San Bernardino County

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$19.41 - $28.18/hr

County employees are hired for animal care, grounds keepers, maintenance, education and administration. The zoo is located within the 3rd District of San Bernardino County. The Park District oversees ...

Houston Zoo

Ranger

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Patrols zoo grounds regularly to monitor guests, staff, and animal safety, identifying and ... Provides support for animal keeper activities by securing paths, assisting with animal transfers ...

Audubon Institute

Zoo Keeper (Primates)

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Zookeeper-Primates (Great Apes) Department: Animal Reports To: Assistant Curator of Section working ... Extensive interaction with the public which may include on and off grounds educational and media ...

City of Garden City (KS)

Animal Keeper

Garden City, KS · On-site

$18.93 - $23.08/hr

Description The City of Garden City is accepting applications for Animal Keeper with the Lee Richardson Zoo. This position is responsible for the care and maintenance of animals, habitats, grounds ...

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How much do zoo grounds keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo grounds keeper in the United States is $17.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo grounds keeper?

Zoo grounds keepers are professionals responsible for maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and overall appearance of zoo grounds. They ensure pathways, visitor areas, and landscaping are kept in good condition, often performing tasks such as mowing lawns, trimming plants, collecting litter, and clearing debris. Their work helps create a pleasant and safe environment for both visitors and animals, and they may also assist with minor repairs and seasonal decorations. Grounds keepers often work closely with other zoo staff to support the zoo’s daily operations.

What are the daily responsibilities of a zoo grounds keeper?

As a Zoo Grounds Keeper, your daily responsibilities include maintaining clean pathways, landscaping, waste removal, and ensuring that public areas are safe and welcoming. You'll often work early mornings or after hours to minimize disruption to guests and animals. Your attention to detail directly impacts the overall impression of the zoo, as well-kept grounds create a pleasant atmosphere for visitors and support animal welfare. Additionally, you may collaborate with animal care staff to ensure enclosures and surrounding areas meet safety and cleanliness standards.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a zoo grounds keeper?

To thrive as a Zoo Grounds Keeper, you need knowledge of horticulture, landscaping, and basic maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant experience. Familiarity with landscaping tools, irrigation systems, and safe use of chemicals like fertilizers and pesticides is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability help ensure the zoo grounds remain safe and attractive for visitors and animals. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining a clean, welcoming, and healthy environment that supports both animal welfare and guest experience.

What is the difference between Zoo Grounds Keeper vs Zoo Animal Keeper?

AspectZoo Grounds KeeperZoo Animal Keeper
Primary ResponsibilitiesMaintains grounds, landscaping, and habitat enclosuresFeeds, cares for, and monitors animals
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, focused on habitat and landscapeIndoor and outdoor, focused on animal care
Required CertificationsHorticulture, landscaping, or groundskeeping certificationsAnimal care, wildlife, or veterinary certifications
Industry UsageCommonly employed in zoo maintenance teamsCommonly employed in animal care departments

The main difference is that Zoo Grounds Keepers focus on maintaining the zoo's landscapes and habitats, while Zoo Animal Keepers are responsible for caring for the animals themselves. Both roles are essential for zoo operations but require different skill sets and certifications.

How do you become a zoo grounds keeper?

To become a zoo grounds keeper, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and experience with landscaping, gardening, or maintenance work. Relevant skills include knowledge of plant care, equipment operation, and safety procedures; some positions may require certifications in first aid or pesticide application.

How hard is it to get a zoo grounds keeper job?

Getting a zoo grounds keeper job typically requires relevant experience in landscaping, maintenance, or animal care, along with physical stamina and attention to safety protocols. Many positions prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require certifications in first aid or equipment operation. Competition can vary based on location and the specific zoo's requirements, but having related skills and experience improves chances of employment.

What qualifications do you need to be a zoo grounds keeper?

Zoo grounds keepers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of horticulture, landscaping, or animal care. Relevant skills include physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to operate maintenance tools and equipment; some positions may require certifications in safety or pesticide application.

What cities are hiring for Zoo Grounds Keeper jobs?

Cities with the most Zoo Grounds Keeper job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Grounds Keeper jobs?

For Zoo Grounds Keeper jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Security Guard Graveyard Shift / Part Time Weekend

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

Santa Barbara Zoo
Museums and Historical Sites • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Santa Barbara Zooexternal

$22.10 - $24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Santa Barbara Zoo rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Benefits:
  • SEPP
  • Membership
  • Guest Passes
  • Company parties
  • Employee discounts
  • Free uniforms
  • Training & development
  • Wellness resources

Join our fun and professional team in our efforts to save the natural world!
Schedule: Saturday & Sunday, 12:30 AM to 8:30 AM
SUMMARY:
All-weather foot patrol opportunity for a "night-owl", who enjoys working outdoors and with minimal supervision. Under general direction of the Director of Safety and Security, the Security Guard patrols the Zoo grounds on a regular basis throughout the shift. Responds in a timely and professional manner to a wide variety of routine and emergency situations
ESSENTIAL DUTIES include the following:
  • Monitors activity at all gates leading into the Zoo, ensuring that only authorized personnel gain access to the Zoo at all times during the shift.
  • Physically checks all spaces, gates, doors, locks, and windows, ensuring they are locked or secured for the night.
  • Ensures full coverage of scheduled shift, making appropriate contacts for assistance or relief from duty should an emergency arise requiring the guard to leave the Zoo before the scheduled end of the shift.
  • Changes light bulbs as needed to ensure security and common public spaces are adequately lighted.
  • Patrols the entire park on foot on a regular and continuous basis throughout shift and reports all physical and security problems to the Director of Safety and Security and/or S.B. Police Department.
  • Maintains Nightly Log and Nightly Report to accurately reflect hours during which rounds were made and breaks were taken, as well as record any discrepancies or incidents that present a security or safety problem.
  • Utilizes guard tour system device when making rounds to check in at all guard tour stations on every round.
  • Sets and maintains traps as directed for raccoons and other small mammals that pose a significant threat to the health of animals in the collection.
  • Maintains open lines of communication with all departments in the Zoo, with special attention given to animal care staff concerns and issues.
  • Renders assistance to all other Zoo departments and personnel as requested, including care taking or observational duties in the animal department, irrigation and watering of Zoo grounds in summer months, and assisting the Private Event Hosts during an evening event.
  • Operates a radio, cellular telephone, guard tour system device, pepper spray, and basic hand tools such as screwdriver, pliers, and hammer.
  • Adheres to Zoo policies regarding tardiness, absences, and other attendance related issues.
  • Adheres to the Zoo's policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual.
  • Apply and Exemplify "green" (sustainable) practices whenever possible.

SECONDARY DUTIES:
  • Greets every guest with a smile.
  • Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo.
  • Answers phone calls promptly.
  • Insures the Zoo's presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions.
  • Associates with guests to assist and share information.
  • Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relation procedures.
  • Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo's uniform dress code.
  • Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings.
  • Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge.
  • Performs other duties as required.

POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience:
  • High school graduate or any equivalent occupation, which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
  • Successful completion of a CA Department of Justice criminal background check is required.
  • Current California Guard Card certification required.
  • First Aid and CPR certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Ability:
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the policies, procedures, and equipment of the Security Department as they relate to Security and general Zoo operations.
  • Ability to use independent judgment in handling routine as well as emergency situations.
  • Ability to oversee and monitor conditions and to promote and exercise safety precautions.
  • Ability to interact and communicate with the general public in a courteous and friendly manner.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to prioritize assignments and complete patrols within a reasonable amount of time (roughly one hour for a standard round).
  • Ability to complete assigned work and meet established deadlines and timetables under a minimal amount of direct supervision.
  • Ability to consistently work scheduled shifts without significant numbers of absences or tardiness.
  • Problem solving and conflict management skills.
  • Capacity to analyze, interpret and use sound judgment in the application of Zoo rules, policies, guidelines and regulations.
  • Capacity to perform under stress when confronted with an emergency, unusual or dangerous situation.
  • Ability to develop productive and friendly relationships at work.
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests.
  • Ability to exercise safe work habits.
  • Awareness of, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
  • Ability to sustain the physical speed and attention that are vital to the safe and effective completion of duties.
  • Ability to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving the whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
  • Physically able to walk and remain on feet up to 8 hours, as well as work up to 16 hours at a time.
  • Must be able to exert a minimum of 25 pounds of force and able to lift, carry, push or pull or otherwise move objects whose weight may exceed 25 pounds.
  • Ability to negotiate all areas of the Zoo over a variety of terrain, including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage.
  • Must be physically able to operate a variety of equipment including two-way radio, cellular phone, telephone, pepper spray dispenser, guard tour system device and alarm system controls.
  • Adequate hearing capabilities to hear vehicles approaching, detect warning sounds, ascertain sound direction and recognize related danger.
  • Eyesight must be at a sufficient level to perform duties without trouble or impairment.
  • Exposure to extreme environmental conditions including smoke, dust, heat, cold, and wetness.
  • Involves working out-of-doors in all weather conditions.
  • Supportive and open employment culture.

Tools Used:
  • Guard tour system device
  • Two-way radio
  • Cellular phone
  • Pepper spray dispenser
  • Alarm System controller
  • Hand tools

Compensation: $22.10 - $24.00 per hour
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Do you love animals and working with people? Join the fun, caring, friendly, and energetic team at the Santa Barbara Zoo in our mission of preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural world and its living treasures through education, research, and recreation.
Once you apply, please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and is a fully accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Known as one of the world's most beautiful zoos, it is located on 30 acres of lush botanic gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is home to more than 146 animal species living in open, naturalistic habitats. Our wonderful collaborative team includes up to 220 employees and 50 volunteers.

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