ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zoo Workers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

At least three years of experience working with venomous animals and teaching others safe venomous ... John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures ...

Audubon Institute

Zoo Keeper (Primates)

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Assistant Curator of Section working Location: Audubon Zoo General Summary: This position is a Zookeeper at the Audubon Zoo. The position will encompass a skilled professional that provides technical ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper, Primates

Houston, TX

... Zoo projects * Exhibits good teamwork and communication skills both within the home team and when working with other teams or departments. * May be required to safely operate a motor vehicle.

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston, TX

... zoo projects. * Exhibits good teamwork and communication skills both within the home team and when working with other teams or departments. * May be required to safely operate a motor vehicle.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsZoo Workers Jobs

Zoo Workers information

See salary details

$12

$25

$36

How much do zoo workers jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo workers in the United States is $25.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Worker, you need a background in animal science or biology, physical stamina, and often a relevant degree or experience in animal care. Familiarity with animal management software, habitat maintenance tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong observation skills, teamwork, and clear communication help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure animal well-being, smooth daily operations, and a safe environment for both animals and visitors.

What are some of the common challenges zoo workers face when caring for a diverse range of animal species?

Zoo workers often encounter challenges related to meeting the unique needs of various animal species, from dietary requirements to environmental enrichment. Adapting care routines to accommodate animals with different behaviors or health needs requires ongoing learning and close teamwork with veterinarians and specialists. Additionally, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety, both for the animals and for visitors, can be demanding, especially during busy periods or in extreme weather. Effective communication and collaboration with colleagues are essential for providing the best possible care.

What are zoo workers and what do they do?

Zoo workers are professionals responsible for the care and management of animals housed in zoos. Their duties often include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, assisting with veterinary care, and educating the public about wildlife and conservation. Zoo workers may specialize in areas such as animal husbandry, education, or maintenance. They play a vital role in ensuring the welfare of animals and providing an engaging experience for visitors.
More about Zoo Workers jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Workers jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Workers job openings:
What states have the most Zoo Workers jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Workers jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Zoo Workers jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Workers jobs are:
Zoo Workers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Workers job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,333 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Mesa Wildlife Care Specialist - Full Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Wildlife Care Specialist performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature and leading the fight against extinction. The Wildlife care specialist, under general supervision, feeds and provides for the general care and welfare of assigned wildlife (mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates or birds). This position reports to a Lead or Supervisor.
This class is distinguished from the Senior Wildlife care specialist class in that the Wildlife care specialist works under supervision. The Wildlife care specialist performs a wide range of semi-routine functions at either the Zoo or San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This class also consistently demonstrates the desire and ability to engage in positive relationships with internal and external customers.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Decision-making: Must have independent and critical thinking ability to respond appropriately to expected and unexpected animal care situations. Must be able to problem solve based on experience and observation and must be able to follow proper procedures.
  • Prepares food and water for animals, Loads and unloads food from trucks, Feeds animals
  • Observes assigned animals
  • Safety: Must be able to safely manage the daily care of non-domesticated wild animals representing multiple dangerous species. This requires the knowledge of and ability to follow SOPs in each animal area.
  • Maintains appropriate health and behavior records on assigned animals. Provides species-appropriate enrichment to assigned animals.
  • Participates in assisting medical staff in treating wildlife and moving animals
  • Performs minor or routine maintenance on habitat enclosures. Reports maintenance needs. Operates a variety of light and medium equipment.
  • Professionalism: Employees are expected to abide by the SDZWA Rules of Engagement. Must foster a positive work environment that promotes trust and integrity. Must be able to accept responsibility and be accountable. Must make decisions that support the goals of the organization.
  • Cleans habitat areas, pools, animal sleeping areas and service areas
  • Reports abnormal conditions
  • Cleans and disinfects utensils, work tools and containers
  • Participates in and supports animal training programs
  • Administers prescribed medication and keeps feeding records
  • Flexibility/Adaptability: Must be able to quickly process and respond to novel situations with professionalism and clear judgment. Must be able to accept irregular shift times, last minute schedule changes, variance in workload, and changing of daily tasks. Must be able to respond appropriately to the animals' dynamic social and physical states. Must be able to work at variable locations (Zoo, Safari Park, field, CS).

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Seeking candidates with a minimum of 1 year experience working at an AZA accredited facility. At least 1 year of experience with both large carnivore and hoof stock is preferred.
JOB EXPERIENCE
  • Education, training and/or experience which would clearly demonstrate the essential functions, knowledge and skills outlined. Examples would be 12 to 16 college credit hours in zoology, animal biology or animal husbandry; or, work experience in a Zoo or similar environment where appropriate knowledge and skills in animal care could be acquired preferred.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • High School Diploma Required
  • California Driver License within 30 Days required

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of:
  • Animal behavior
  • Animal biology and zoology
  • Care, feeding and handling of wild animals
  • Safety practices around wild animals
  • Techniques for restraining or capturing wild animals
  • Public Speaking

Ability to:
  • Respond to cautions from co-workers
  • Monitor animal behavior and appearance
  • Operate motorized equipment and vehicles
  • Use computer programs (Word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and Internet)
  • Communicate and work effectively with others
  • Work in a diverse team environment and motivate others
  • Multi-task and prioritize
  • Understand and follow directions effectively
  • Deal tactfully and courteously with others
  • Adhere to the organization's policies, procedures and regulations
  • Competently perform the essential functions outlined above

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
  • Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Family Passes
  • Complimentary Tickets
  • Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Local and In-House Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS
  • Location: San Diego, CA
  • Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
  • Hourly Rate: $31.98

About The Salary Ranges
The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.
Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.
If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.

Apply