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Zoo Keeper Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Smithsonian

Materials Handler

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

... Zoo. This position is located in one of the SI facilities serviced by the Office of Facilities ... Keeps a log of all items received and when distributed to staff. * Assists the labor staff with ...

Smithsonian Institution

Materials Handler

Landover, MD · On-site +1

$24.50 - $28.58/hr

... Zoo. This position is located in one of the SI facilities serviced by the Office of Facilities ... Keeps a log of all items received and when distributed to staff. * Assists the labor staff with ...

All JobsZoo Keeper JobsZoo Keeper Jobs in Springfield, VA

Zoo Keeper information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do zoo keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo keeper in Springfield, VA is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.12 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.

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Keeper jobs in Springfield, VA?

For Zoo Keeper jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Zoo Keeper jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Zoo Keeper job openings:

Zoo Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Keeper job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,043 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Animal Keeper Helper (HG 5001-05)

National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
OPEN DATE: August 26, 2025                                   
CLOSING DATE: September 10, 2025 (This job will close once 100 applications are received which may be sooner than the closing date.)                           
POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund
APPOINTMENT TYPE:  Permanent/Indefinite    
SCHEDULE: Full Time
DUTY LOCATION: Washington, DC
Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
 
Open to all qualified applicants 
 
 What are Trust Fund Positions?
Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program and may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). 
 
Conditions of Employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated as low risk.
  • Complete a Probationary Period
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
  • The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
  • Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.


OVERVIEW

The Smithsonian Institution is a unique complex of 21 museums and galleries, the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute and nine research centers. The Smithsonian is a national and world treasure and is dedicated to its founding mission, “the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” The Smithsonian’s National Zook and Conservation Biology Institute plays a leading role in the Smithsonian’s global efforts to save wildlife species from extinction and train future generations of conservationists. The Smithsonian Institution is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
 
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is a leader in the conservation, care, exhibition, and research of wildlife and habitats.  NZCBI’s employees in the nation’s capital, Virginia, and worldwide and as part of the Smithsonian make it prominent in national and international affairs involving conservation, zoos, wildlife, public outreach, and biological research.
   
This position is located at NZCBI Headquarters 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington DC 2008. It is accessible via mass transit, and onsite employee parking is currently available at no cost. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Animal Keeper position is located at the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) at the National Zoological Park (NZP) in Washington, DC. The incumbent is responsible for performing a variety of duties that ensure the proper care, feeding, exhibition, and propagation of a collection of animals.
  
  In this position, you will:
  • Assist higher graded Animal Keepers in performing a variety of tasks associated with the proper care, feeding, exhibition, and propagation of a collection of wild and exotic animals. 
  • Clean animal enclosures by hosing, sweeping, scrubbing, raking, and removing manure, unconsumed food, and other refuse.
  • Receive training and developmental assignments in the receipt, storage, inspection, inventory, preparation and issuance of food and dietary supplements, forage, and bedding materials. Unloads and stores food supplies. As instructed and under close supervision prepares animal diets according to standard procedures.
  • Keep service areas and adjacent public areas clean. 

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
  • Requires the ability to catch and handle docile animals by hand or by using nets without injuring the animals or endangering oneself.
  • Requires familiarity with a range of animal species in order to identify them by natural markings.
  • Requires skill and ability to carry out routine animal keeper duties.
  • Requires ability to understand instructions given by higher-level animal keeper personnel.

 
Applicants, who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States, must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.
 
Any false statement in your application may result in your application being rejected and may also result in termination after employment begins.
  
The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce. Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."
 
 Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.  
 
 What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.
 
Relocation expenses are not paid.
 
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact BiagasL@si.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.  To learn more, please review the Smithsonian’s Accommodation Procedures.
 
The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a workforce comprising a variety of educational, cultural, and experiential backgrounds support and enhance our daily work life and contribute to the richness of our exhibitions and programs. See Smithsonian EEO program information: www.si.edu/oeema.