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Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zoo Keeper (Primates)

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Zookeeper-Primates Department: Animal Reports To: Assistant Curator of Section working Location: Audubon Zoo General Summary: This position is a Zookeeper at the Audubon Zoo. The position will ...

Zoo Maintenance Worker Assistant Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly pay range: $17.50 - $20.00 Closing Date: 07/07/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applicants Job Summary: The Zoo Maintenance Worker ...

Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs. Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs. As a ...

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

Zoo Maintenance Worker Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Range: $24.00 - $26.00 Closing Date: 07/01/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications Job Summary: Responsible for maintaining and ...

Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs. Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs. As a ...

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

Zoo - Seasonal Grounds Worker

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$11.23 - $23.87/hr

Seasonal Grounds Zoo Worker Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Range: $11.23 - $23.87 Job Summary: To assist in the general upkeep of operations of the Zoological Gardens and to perform assigned duties ...

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper II is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

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Zoo information

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$5

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How much do zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo in the United States is $15.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.10 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Zookeeper, you need a background in animal science or biology, experience with animal care, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with animal husbandry tools, record-keeping software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication help zookeepers manage animals and interact with the public and colleagues. These skills ensure the health and welfare of animals while promoting education and safety within the zoo environment.

What are zoo workers and what do they do?

Zoo workers are professionals who care for animals in zoos and ensure their well-being. Their duties can include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and providing enrichment activities. Some zoo workers, like zookeepers, may specialize in certain species, while others assist with education programs or maintenance. They also help educate the public about wildlife conservation and animal behavior. Working at a zoo requires a passion for animals, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.

What is the difference between Zoo vs Zookeeper?

AspectZooZookeeper
CredentialsTypically none required, but education in biology or animal science helpsOften requires a degree in biology, zoology, or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, educational, and conservation-focused settingsHands-on animal care in zoo habitats
Employer & IndustryZoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizationsZoos, aquariums, wildlife reserves

While 'Zoo' refers to the facility or organization, a 'Zookeeper' is the professional responsible for animal care within a zoo. Zookeepers work directly with animals, ensuring their health and well-being, whereas 'Zoo' describes the environment or institution where these activities occur.

What Are the Qualifications to Work in a Zoo?

The qualifications to work in a zoo vary greatly. As a zoologist, you need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or a closely related degree. Some zookeepers have zoology degrees as well, but that is not always a strict requirement for becoming a zookeeper. To work on the administrative side, you need a strong grasp of business administration, animal science, and community planning and engagement. Tour guides may be volunteers that lead tours or full-time employees with a high school diploma or GED certificate. Strong research skills and good interpersonal communication skills are essential.

What are some of the common challenges faced by zookeepers in their daily work?

Zookeepers often encounter challenges such as ensuring animal welfare while managing a variety of species with different needs, maintaining strict safety protocols, and handling physically demanding tasks in all weather conditions. They also need to adapt to rapidly changing situations, such as animal health emergencies or behavioral issues, and frequently collaborate closely with veterinarians, educators, and maintenance staff. Building trust with the animals and staying updated on best practices in animal care are ongoing aspects of the role.
What cities are hiring for Zoo jobs? Cities with the most Zoo job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs? The most popular types of Zoo jobs are:
What states have the most Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Zoo jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo jobs are:
Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 2% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,242 per year, or $15 per hour.
Clinical Laboratory Assistant - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Clinical Laboratory Assistant - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego, CA • On-site

$17.60 - $19.47/hr

Other

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


Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors - the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park - giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Clinical Laboratory Assistant performs a variety of duties to assist laboratory operations. This position reports to the Laboratory Manager or Associate Director of Clinical Laboratory Services.
WHAT YOU WILL DO

  • Receive, log, prepare, and may analyze wildlife blood, feces, urine and fluid samples.
  • Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies, including restocking supplies.
  • Prepare and ship blood, feces, urine and fluid samples to outside laboratories or researchers.
  • Maintain paper and electronic filing systems including receiving send out results.
  • Assist the Laboratory Technician with laboratory duties as needed.
  • Coordinate Laboratory Activities as needed.


WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The Clinical Laboratory Assistant will primarily work at the Safari Park in Escondido, CA with occasional shifts at the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, CA.

  • JOB EXPERIENCE
    • At least one year of experience in a clinical or biological research laboratory, or related training or coursework required.

  • EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
    • Associate degree two-year Technical Degree or similar required.
    • Medical Laboratory Technician - Certified from ASCP Registered Veterinary Technician preferred.
    • Certified Veterinary Technician - NAVTA Medical Lab Technician preferred.

  • SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
    • Knowledge of standard laboratory equipment required.
    • Ability to maintain clear and concise laboratory documentation required.
    • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing required.
    • Ability to use moderately complex computer systems required.
    • Ability to work effectively with others required.
    • Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks required.
    • Knowledge and ability to handle biohazardous materials and potentially zoonotic samples required.

SOME OF THE PERKS 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
  • Local and In-House Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

  • Location: San Diego, CA
  • Position Type: Hourly, Part-Time, Non-Exempt Position
  • Hourly Rate: $17.60 to $19.47

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.


Be an ally for wildlife by joining our team!

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we thrive on celebrating our differences. Diversity is vital for the benefit of our team members, our guests, our community, and our wildlife.

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.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.