ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zoo Keeper Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Indianapolis Zoo

Custodian

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

From keeping the amenities and grounds clean to assisting with event setups, our Custodians are always on the move ensuring the Indianapolis Zoo is sanitized and safe for our guests. The Indianapolis ...

Clean Team, Inc

Cleaner

Evansville, IN

$13.25 - $15.75/hr

Part-Time Commercial Cleaner at Mesker Park Zoo Location: Evansville, IN Work Schedule : Thursday ... If you enjoy working on your own, take pride in keeping spaces clean, and are dependable, we'd like ...

All JobsZoo Keeper JobsZoo Keeper Jobs in Indiana

Zoo Keeper information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$18

$27

How much do zoo keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo keeper in Indiana is $18.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 procedures.

How much can a zoo keeper make?

Zoo keepers typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, with experienced professionals or those working in specialized facilities earning higher. Salaries can vary based on location, education, experience, and the size of the zoo, and may include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

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 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, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with relevant experience or education in animal care, biology, or zoology. Many positions prefer candidates with a college degree and hands-on experience through internships or volunteering at zoos or animal shelters. Certification in animal handling or safety may also enhance job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Keeper jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Zoo Keeper jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Zoo Keeper jobs in Indiana? For Zoo Keeper jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Zoo Keeper jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Keeper jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Zoo Keeper jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Zoo Keeper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Zoo Keeper jobs in IN? For Zoo Keeper jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Zoo Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Keeper job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,302 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Seasonal Primate Keeper

Seasonal Primate Keeper

Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$13/hr

Temporary

Posted 12 days ago

Indianapolis Zoo rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 36 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

The Indianapolis Zoo's Primate Department is searching for a seasonal keeper to join our team. This position will primarily care for our chimpanzee, orangutan, baboon, gibbon, and tamarin residents. Duties include cleaning and maintaining animal environments, preparing and distributing daily enrichment, observing animal behavior, ensuring optimal animal welfare, supporting a variety of research activities, and educating zoo guests.
Ideal candidates are committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. Having a professional attitude and appearance to visitors, volunteers, and co-workers is vital to the position as well as being a team-oriented individual that is temperamentally suited to work with the public and animals. Prior experience working with primates is highly desired. This is a seasonal, 40 hours per week position that requires availability to work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. Seasonal assignments are temporary in nature and are expected to last approximately six (6) months with a pay rate of $13.00/ hr.
Position Requirements and Experience (Note: there are strenuous physical requirements to this position including but not limited to):
  • Minimum of one (1) year animal care experience, preferably with primates, is preferred. College course work in a suitable animal-related field may be substituted for work experience.
  • Demonstrates patience, gentleness, respect, and consistency with animals in their care.
  • Displays a professional attitude and appearance to visitors, volunteers, and co-workers.
  • Completes daily husbandry tasks and recordkeeping.
  • Ability to work outdoors and indoors under all environmental conditions and temperatures.
  • Ability to transport and move items, exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/ or up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
  • Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium while performing various jobs.
  • Ability to crouch, bend, kneel for prolonged periods of time.
  • Exceptional visual acuity is required, along with the ability to communicate, comprehend, and decipher information accurately, using a two-way radio.
  • Possible occupational exposure (Category B employee) to human bloodborne pathogens. Possible exposure to dangerous chemicals (e.g. chlorine bleach, cleaning agents, etc.) Must follow Universal Protection Precautions and Bloodborne Pathogens Guidelines.
  • High school diploma or equivalent is required. Bachelor's degree in a Life Science area from an accredited college/university in life sciences is strongly preferred.

To apply:
  • Interested candidates must complete an online application.
  • Interested applicants must include a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to be considered.

Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

What Indianapolis Zoo employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply