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Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper, Primates

Houston, TX

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

Tulsa Zoo

Zookeeper - Elephants/Hoofstock

Tulsa, OK · On-site

Zookeeper - Elephants/Hoofstock Your Manager: Zoological Supervisor/Manager Your Pay Structure ( FLSA Status): Full-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is a safety-sensitive position.

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper, Primates

Houston, TX · On-site

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

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

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

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston, TX · On-site

Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and Responsibilities:

John Ball Zoo

Zookeeper - Area 3

Grand Rapids, MI

$17.11/hr

Zookeeper - Area 3 Be part of the adventure and come Work Wild with us! Have an enhanced experience taking care of our wide range of animals as a Zookeeper in Area 3. We are looking for someone ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston, TX · On-site

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 ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper, Primates

Houston, TX · On-site

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

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Birds

Houston, TX · On-site

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 ...

Sedgwick County

Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Wichita, KS

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12867 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation ...

Sedgwick County

Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Wichita, KS

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12867 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

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

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX

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

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX · On-site

Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and Responsibilities

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX · On-site

Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and Responsibilities

houstonzoo

Zookeeper, Primates

Houston, TX · On-site

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

Sedgwick County

Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12867 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation ...

Sedgwick County

PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12880 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation ...

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How much do zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper 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 Is a Zookeeper?

As a zookeeper, you care for zoo animals and educate visitors in a zoological park. Your job duties are to observe and record animal behavior, build enrichment items for exhibits, feed animals, clean animal habitats and enclosures, train animals, and provide basic veterinary care for sick and injured animals. You may specialize in one species or animal group, like primates, big cats, birds, reptiles, or marine animals. Alternatively, you could work with all types of animals and provide support to other specialized zookeepers.

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 solid background in animal science, biology, or zoology—often with a relevant degree or hands-on experience in animal care. Familiarity with animal management software, husbandry equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong observational skills, patience, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the health and well-being of animals, support public education, and maintain a safe, collaborative working environment.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeepers when caring for a variety of animal species?

Zookeepers often manage animals with diverse needs, ranging from dietary requirements to enrichment and behavioral health. One common challenge is adapting care routines for different species, especially when working with both domesticated and exotic animals. Additionally, zookeepers must remain vigilant about safety protocols to protect themselves and the animals, and they regularly collaborate with veterinarians and other staff to monitor health and well-being. Balancing the animals' welfare with public education and visitor engagement can also require creative problem-solving and strong communication skills.

What are zookeepers?

Zookeepers are animal care professionals responsible for the daily care, feeding, and monitoring of animals in zoos and wildlife parks. They ensure the animals’ habitats are clean and safe, observe animal behavior for signs of illness, and assist with breeding programs and public education efforts. Zookeepers often work with veterinarians to maintain animal health and may also help with conservation initiatives. This role requires a passion for animals, physical stamina, and strong observation skills.
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What states have the most Zookeeper jobs? States with the most job openings for Zookeeper jobs include:
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Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,251 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Zookeeper, Primates

Zookeeper, Primates

Houston Zoo

Houston, TX

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Houston Zoo rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 32 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Position Summary
Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures within a specified Houston Zoo animal program. This position will coordinate all program objectives in addition to day-to-day husbandry and enclosure maintenance.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Carries out all aspects of the daily care of assigned animals including cleaning, feeding, exhibit maintenance, general upkeep of support facilities.
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, holding areas, service areas and equipment.
  • Prepares and feeds appropriate diets as per established feeding practices and diet sheets.
  • Administers prescribed medications, supplements, or treatments under the guidance of the veterinary and supervisory staff.
  • Records and reports any abnormal animal health or behavioral issues to the Zoo Supervisor.
  • Maintains daily reports, logs, training and enrichment records, research or veterinary records, as appropriate and according to established guidelines; requires basic skills with TRACKS and Microsoft Office software applications.
  • Understands and applies a practical understanding of operant conditioning as it relates to the daily management of species under his/her care.
  • Understands and applies the basic principles of animal enrichment as part of the daily management of species under his/her care.
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas.
  • As appropriate, maintains water quality through filtration, balance of chemical elements, and sanitation methods for aquatic or semi-aquatic animal species.
  • As appropriate, maintains live exhibit plantings to enhance exhibit aesthetics; eliminates weeds and toxic plants from animal enclosures.
  • In conjunction with the Zoo's pest control officer, may assist in pest control through the use of exclusion or traps.
  • Identifies potential maintenance or safety issues and reports them to the Zoo Supervisor.
  • Participates in keeper chats, tours, animal presentations or demonstrations, and/or other public interactions as requested by the Zoo Supervisor.
  • May assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for 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.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in all duties and all assigned work areas within a specified timeframe.
  • Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of teenage volunteers, Zoo Crew.
  • May assist Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects.
  • Demonstrates a clear understanding of the roles AZA zoos play in conservation and saving animals in the wild.
  • Actively pursues feedback and other resources to develop leadership skills.
  • Contributes to saving animals in the wild through: reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions
  • Performs other duties as assigned
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from four-year college or university in zoology, biology, animal husbandry or a related field.
    • Experience and education may be considered equivalent at the rate of six months of experience per 15 hours of college level credit, up to 60 hours.
    • A certificate of completion from an acceptable animal care program may be substituted for a Bachelor's degree.
  • Three years of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment or internships.
  • Experience with basic carpentry and mechanical skills.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license.
Language/Reasoning Ability
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, professional journals and SOPs. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively and present information and respond to groups of managers, guests and the general public.
  • Ability to add and subtract two-digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's. Ability to perform these operations using units of money, weight measurement, volume, and distance.
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
Computer Skills
  • Proficient computer skills including electronic mail, record keeping, routine database activity, word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, etc.
  • Experience in Microsoft Office applications
Competencies
  • Job Knowledge/Technical Knowledge: Demonstrates a sound working knowledge of current role and the technical systems and applications used in performing this role, and understands the impact this role has on other business functions within the organization
  • Interpersonal Communication: Writes and speaks effectively based on the psychological, relational, situation, environmental and cultural dynamics within the situation
  • Manages Change: Demonstrates effectiveness and flexibility with changing environments, responsibilities, tasks, and people.
  • Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves issues timely by gathering and analyzing information skillfully.
  • Attention to Detail: Follows detailed procedures to ensure accuracy in the entry and reporting of data/information
  • Organization: Uses time efficiently by prioritizing and planning work activities. Methodical and efficient in structuring tasks to be accomplished.
  • Professional maturity: The ability to separate emotional feelings from the real issues at hand. The ability to legitimately and objectively challenge the substance of our beliefs and biases of our observations.
  • Initiative: Takes a responsible, proactive approach and willingness to get things done independently; readiness to take the lead on new projects, ideas, tasks or assignments.
  • Responsibility: The ability to meet commitments made to yourself and others, keeping the promises you make, and acknowledging and accepting the choices you have made, the actions you have taken, and the results they have led to.
  • Communication: The ability to write and speak effectively using appropriate convention based on the situation; actively listens to others, asks questions to verify understanding, and uses tact and consideration when delivering feedback to others.
  • Flexibility: Demonstrate responsiveness and adaptability following change initiatives, and demonstrates ongoing support for change efforts.
  • Intelligence: Understand and comprehend information, as well as find application and value from new knowledge.
  • Integrity and Respect: Demonstrates upmost level of integrity in all instances, and shows respect towards others and towards company principles.
  • Judgment: Demonstrates ability to make independent and sound decisions in all situations.
  • Guest Focus: The ability to demonstrate a series of activities designed to enhance the level of guest satisfaction
  • Teamwork: Shares key information with others involved in a project or effort, works in harmony to accomplish objectives, responds with enthusiasm to directives, and shows support for departmental and organizational decisions.
  • Energetic: Exhibits high levels of energy and enthusiasm
  • Quality: Sets high standards and measures of excellence to ensure quality assurance in every aspect of work performed.
  • Computer Savvy: The knowledge and ability to use computers and technology efficiently and effectively.
  • Collaboration and Partnership: Encourages and embraces dialogue from team members, while anticipating and resolving conflicting differences by exploring mutually agreeable solutions.
  • Accountability: Takes personal responsibility and ownership for adhering to all company policies and procedures while also completing work timely and in accordance with performance expectations.
Physical Demands
  • Ascending or descending stairs, ramps, ladders and the like, using feet and legs and/or hands and arms
  • Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing or crouching on narrow or slippery surfaces.
  • Bending legs downward and forward by bending leg and spine
  • Standing or moving about on foot to accomplish task, particularly for long distances or sustained periods of time
  • Using upper extremities to press against something with steady force
  • Using upper extremities to exert force. Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally
  • Ability to swiftly respond or move quickly and demonstrate good hand eye coordination in time sensitive situations.
  • Perceiving size, shape, temperature, or texture by touching with skin, particularly the fingertips
  • Activities in which you must convey by spoken word or instruction to other workers accurately, loudly or quickly
  • Perceiving the nature of sounds with or without correction
  • Substantial movements (motion) of the wrist, hands, and/or fingers
  • Visual acuity including color, close/distance vision, depth perception, and peripheral vision
  • Ability to adjust focus
  • Moderate physical activity performing somewhat strenuous daily activities
  • Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, pull, or otherwise move objects
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to reach/handle items, works with the fingers, and perceives attributes of objects and materials
  • Produce negative test results for annual tuberculosis testing and vaccination for rabies or other zoonotic diseases
Work Environment
  • Outdoors and indoor environment with adequate ventilation
  • Moderate to loud noise
  • Exposure to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture and/or air pollution
  • Exposure to potentially dangerous animals and zoonotic diseases, chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises and minor burns
Public Contact
  • Requires heavy public contact requiring considerable interpersonal skill, extensive interaction with the public, donors, and members requiring a high degree of guest services skills.
Work Hours
  • Hours include normal zoo operating hours, weekends, evenings, holidays, special events and extended hours
  • Minimal overnight travel (up to 10%) by land and/or air
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
Full-time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.
  • Medical and Prescription Drug
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
  • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Supplemental Life
  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
  • 401k, with employer match
Full-time and Part-Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.
  • Free Zoo Membership
  • Free Guest Passes
  • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
  • Free parking

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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