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Zoo Keeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

San Bernardino County

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$19.41 - $28.18/hr

For more detailed information, refer to the Animal Keeper I . EXCELLENT BENEFITS To review job ... ABOUT BIG BEAR ALPINE ZOO The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a rehabilitation facility offering injured ...

Oakland Zoo

Float Keeper B

Oakland, CA · On-site

$28.45/hr

Position Summary Animal Keepers play a vital role on the ACCR team, taking care of the physical ... Implement Department/Zoo priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to ...

Maryland Zoo

Commissary Keeper

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$19.20/hr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary : The Commissary Keeper will prepare, deliver, store,and stock food, hay, supplies, purchased orders, and ...

TecTammina

Big Data Technology Architect

Hartford, CT

$64.25 - $82.75/hr

... Zoo Keeper/ Broad knowledge of upcoming technologies like Spark, Storm, kafka etc Should have worked on at least 2 projects in Big Data Basic knowledge of Unix and Shell scripting Experience in ...

Saint Louis Zoo

Keeper, River's Edge

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Saint Louis Zoo located in St. Louis, Missouri Directly Reports to: Zoological Manager/River's Edge ... The keeper candidate chosen will work in River's Edge, a lushly planted naturalistic environment ...

Peoria Park District

Animal Keeper

Peoria, IL

$20.96/hr

Care for the wild and domestic animals in the Zoo's collection. * Clean and disinfect displays and ... Ability to understand and complete record keeping and paperwork relative to job duties. * Ability ...

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Zoo Keeper information

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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.

Zookeeper - Elephants/Rhinos (Full Time)

Memphis Zoo

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Summary:
We are currently in search of a motivated individual to join our Pachyderm Team. This position would primarily be responsible for the daily husbandry and care of African elephants, Southern White Rhinos, Grant's Zebra and Scimitar-Horned Oryx.
Now is an exciting time to join our team as we begin the process of designing a new Africa habitat, which would include new exhibits for our elephants, rhinos, giraffes and other area hoofstock. This renovation and expansion will serve to further the Memphis Zoo's commitment to elephants in the future. The ideal candidate would be proficient in all aspects of zoo animal care including husbandry, enrichment, training, exhibit maintenance, record keeping, public presentations, and conservation. Candidates for this position should be self-motivated, hard-working, positive, dependable, who can work independently, but also thrive in a team setting.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Daily husbandry of assigned animals.
  • Facilitates formal and informal public presentations to engage guests and provide a positive guest experience.
  • Actively observes animals' behavior, checking for any signs of illness or disorder; reports irregularities and abnormal behavior to supervisor; works with vet staff to address medical needs.
  • Prepares and administers appropriate daily diets and maintain accurate records of assigned animals.
  • Appropriately cleans and disinfects assigned animal enclosures/habitats according to written protocols and ensures a sanitary and safe environment.
  • Exercises good judgement when making decisions that affect our collection.
  • Assists hospital staff in all aspects of animal treatment within the assigned section.
  • May incorporate modern behavioral husbandry techniques such as operant conditioning and environmental enrichment into animal care.

Minimum Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma.
  • Some college level coursework in the fields of Zoology, Biology, Psychology, or related field.
  • Experience working with animals (preferably rhinos or similar large taxa) in a zoological setting and/or similar experience working large mammals in the field of agriculture

Preferred Education and Experience:
  • Previous experience working with elephants and/or rhinos in a captive setting.

Competencies:
  • Written and Oral Communication.
  • Proficient in MS office, current technology and applications for communication, research, and record keeping.
  • Records and Reports Creation and Management.
  • Problem Solving/Analysis.
  • Stress Management/Composure.
  • Flexibility.
  • Teamwork Orientation.

Supervisory Responsibility: None.
Reporting Structure: Reports to Associate Curator, Team Lead.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
Full-time positions are defined as positions scheduled to work approximately 40 hours a week. Scheduling is at the discretion of the manager.
This position is considered non-exempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws.
Scheduling Availability Requirements: This position regularly requires flexible hours including weekdays, holidays, and weekends.
Work Environment: While performing the duties of the job, the employee will frequently work in outdoor settings (Zoo grounds). When outdoors this position is required to work in various weather conditions including rain, humidity, and extreme heat or cold.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
This position requires frequent sitting/standing/walking/bending/kneeling and may occasionally move or lift objects up to 50 pounds.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Other Requirements:
  • 18 years or older.
  • Clear background check.
  • Clear drug screening.
  • Clear TB screening.

Benefits & Perks
The Memphis Zoo has a comprehensive benefits and employee perks package. Please see our Memphis Zoo Careers page for details.
EEOC and Inclusion Statement:
The Memphis Zoo believes that human diversity is as important as the biodiversity we seek to conserve. World-class zoos are comprised of world-class team members representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We value a diverse workplace and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and veterans to apply.
The Memphis Zoo is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws. If you need to request any accommodations for the interview or hiring process, please let the Human Resources team (HR) know. HR can be contacted at hrteam@memphiszoo.org.
The Memphis Zoo participates in E-Verify and is an EEO/ADA/Veteran employer.
All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment screening. Memphis Zoo is a drug-free workplace.
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
How to Apply:
Applications should be submitted via the Memphis Zoo Careers page. Please note that any other application submissions will not be considered. www.memphiszoo.org/careers.
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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