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Zoo Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Zoo Keeper

Sarasota, FL · On-site

Keeper Intro Department: Animal Custodial Reporting Relationship: Lead/Supervisor Work Schedule: Minimum 30-40 Hour Week Status: Hourly Salary Range: Summary of Duties: Responsible for performing day ...

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 ... With 6+ years of experience, an individual can qualify for a Senior Keeper position. Additional ...

New

Fort Worth Zoo

Elephant Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. • Must be 18 years of age or older • Must have one year of zoo keeping experience, elephant zoo ...

Fort Worth Zoo

Temporary Mammal Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

To maintain and care for a variety of animals within the Zoo; to assist veterinary staff as needed ... record keeping Must possess ability to: • Work with a variety of domestic and wild animals • ...

Fort Worth Zoo

Temporary Bird Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$17/hr

To maintain and care for a variety of animals within the Zoo; to assist veterinary staff as needed ... record keeping Must possess ability to: • Work with a variety of domestic and wild animals • ...

fwzoo

Elephant Keeper

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. • Must be 18 years of age or older • Must have one year of zoo keeping experience, elephant zoo ...

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 ...

Maryland Zoo

Commissary Keeper

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$19.20/hr

The Commissary Keeper will prepare, deliver, store,and stock food, hay, supplies, purchased orders ... Additionally, the Commissary Keeperwill support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild ...

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Zoo Keeper information

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$29

How much do zoo keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo keeper in the United States is $19.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a zoo keeper do?

A zoo keeper is responsible for the daily care and welfare of animals in a zoo. Their duties include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and providing enrichment activities to stimulate natural behaviors. Zoo keepers also educate the public about the animals and their habitats, and may assist with breeding programs and conservation efforts. They work closely with veterinarians and other staff to ensure the animals are healthy and safe.

What are some common challenges faced by zoo keepers in their daily routines?

Zoo keepers often encounter a variety of challenges, including managing the diverse needs of different animal species, maintaining strict safety protocols, and balancing routine care with unexpected situations like animal illnesses or enclosure repairs. The role requires physical stamina, adaptability, and strong observational skills to notice subtle changes in animal behavior. Additionally, zoo keepers frequently work in all weather conditions and collaborate closely with veterinarians, educators, and maintenance staff to ensure the well-being of the animals and the smooth operation of the zoo.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Keeper, you typically need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, along with hands-on experience working with animals. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as Certified Zoo Professional can be important. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, communication, and teamwork set outstanding zoo keepers apart. These skills are vital for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining safe environments, and educating the public effectively.

What is the difference between Zoo Keeper vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectZoo KeeperAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer certifications in animal careHigh school diploma; certifications in animal handling or veterinary assisting beneficial
Work EnvironmentZoos, aquariums, wildlife parks; outdoor and indoor settingsVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, zoos; indoor and outdoor settings
Job DutiesFeeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, enrichment activitiesFeeding, cleaning, assisting with medical procedures, observing animals

Zoo Keepers and Animal Care Technicians share similar environments and responsibilities related to animal husbandry. However, Zoo Keepers typically work in zoos or aquariums with a focus on daily animal care and enrichment, while Animal Care Technicians often work in veterinary or shelter settings assisting with medical care. Both roles require a passion for animals and relevant certifications, but Zoo Keepers usually have more specialized training related to zoo animals.

How do you become a zoo keeper?

To become a zoo keeper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or education in animal care, biology, or zoology. Many zoos prefer candidates with a college degree and hands-on experience through internships or volunteering at animal facilities. Certification in animal handling or safety training can also improve job prospects.

How hard is it to get a zoo keeper job?

Securing a zoo keeper position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in biology, zoology, or animal science, along with hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work. Employers typically look for strong animal handling skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like first aid or animal care training.

Is it hard to get a job as a zoo keeper?

Getting a job as a zoo keeper can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in biology, zoology, or animal science, along with hands-on experience through internships or volunteering. Employers typically look for strong animal handling skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like first aid or animal care training.

What qualifications do you need to be a zoo keeper?

To become a zoo keeper, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience or education in animal science, biology, or zoology. Many employers prefer candidates with hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or related work, and some positions may require certifications in animal care or safety. Strong communication skills, physical stamina, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important.
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Zoo Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Keeper job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,251 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Zoo Keeper

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Keeper Intro
Department: Animal Custodial
Reporting Relationship: Lead/Supervisor
Work Schedule: Minimum 30-40 Hour Week
Status: Hourly
Salary Range:
Summary of Duties: Responsible for performing day to day operations of the bio
Department in qualified areas and animals. This is an Animal Keeper Intro position. The
Keeper Intro position will perform all shows as necessary or directed that they are
qualified to do. The Keeper Intro is required to publicly speak. The Intro Keeper will
communicate with the entire animal department staff via daily logbook and report all
Incidents.
Primary Duties:
Learn all sections and groups assigned.
Learn care and diets of all animals.
Learn training and enrichment of animals.
Learn department policies and procedures.
Record required hours of training to handle and work with animals.
Record in daily logs and read daily logs.
Learn identifications of plants and proper maintenance of plants
Know Company policy and procedures(handbook)
Complete and sign off on Animal Safety Training.
Secondary Duties:
Responsible for communicating schedule availability for the workweek.
Learn general maintenance of all enclosures in the Animal Department’s care.
Communicates to Lead/Supervisor on a daily basis.
Reports all incidents.
Cross training with other Departments.
Education, experience and specialized skills and knowledge requirements:
4-year Biology or Zoology degree preferred, 1 year professional experience in Animal
Entertainment Industry preferred
Public speaking ability. Exhibits good problem solving skills. Exhibits great
communication skills. Must be physically able to perform above duties without any
physical limitations. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
Skills in understanding animal behaviors and applying behavioral conditioning.
 

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