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Zookeeper Assistant Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of El Paso, TX

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Salary : $100,494.78 - $135,667.96 Annually Location : Various Locations within the City of El Paso ... Zoo operations, projects, and activities. Typical Duties Assist in planning, directing, and ...

New York Aquarium

Sous Chef

New York, NY · On-site

$68K - $72K/yr

Bronx Zoo Position Type: Full-Time Salary: $68,000 - $72,000 About Wildlife Conservation Society ... Will assist in the supervision of staff, inventory and cost controls, kitchen cleanliness ...

Wildlife Conservation Society

Sous Chef

New York, NY · On-site

$68K - $72K/yr

Bronx Zoo Position Type: Full-Time Salary: $68,000 - $72,000 About Wildlife Conservation Society ... Will assist in the supervision of staff, inventory and cost controls, kitchen cleanliness ...

Memphis Zoo

Zoo Hospital Manager (Full Time)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$57K/yr

... Assistant/Zookeeper). * Must be solution-oriented, finding creative solutions for complex ... Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: Full-time salary positions are defined as positions scheduled ...

mkecounty

Zoo - Associate Veterinarian

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$89K - $100K/yr

Associate- Veterinarian Milwaukee County Zoo Salary Range: $89,107.20 - $100,000 Job Posting will ... Commissary Management - Manage the Commissary and Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator. Assist ...

mkecounty

Zoo - Associate Veterinarian

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$89K - $100K/yr

Associate- Veterinarian Milwaukee County Zoo Salary Range: $89,107.20 - $100,000 Job Posting will ... Commissary Management - Manage the Commissary and Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator. Assist ...

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Zookeeper Assistant Salary information

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$67

$125

How much do zookeeper assistant salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper assistant salary in the United States is $67.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $92.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the average salary for a zookeeper assistant?

The average salary for a Zookeeper Assistant in the United States typically ranges from $25,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and the type of facility. Entry-level positions may start closer to minimum wage, while those with experience or in larger zoos may earn slightly more. Benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for advancement can vary between employers. Overall, this role is often considered entry-level in the animal care field.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeeper assistants in their daily responsibilities?

Zookeeper Assistants often face physically demanding tasks such as cleaning enclosures, preparing diets, and assisting with animal enrichment. Working in various weather conditions and managing unpredictable animal behavior can also be challenging. Additionally, maintaining strict safety and hygiene protocols is essential. Despite these challenges, the role offers rewarding opportunities to learn about animal care and contribute to conservation efforts while working closely with experienced zookeepers.

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

To thrive as a Zookeeper Assistant, you typically need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, along with hands-on experience working with animals. Familiarity with animal care protocols, feeding schedules, cleaning procedures, and basic recordkeeping systems is important. Strong observational skills, teamwork, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for animal welfare set candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the well-being of animals and supporting efficient zoo operations.

What is the difference between Zookeeper Assistant Salary vs Zookeeper?

AspectZookeeper AssistantZookeeper
Average Salary$25,000 - $35,000$30,000 - $45,000
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, animal care experienceHigh school diploma, animal care certification preferred
Work EnvironmentAnimal care facilities, zoosZoos, wildlife parks, conservation centers
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with animal feeding, cleaning, and habitat maintenanceAnimal feeding, habitat management, health monitoring

In summary, Zookeeper Assistants typically earn less than Zookeepers, with similar credentials but fewer responsibilities. Zookeepers have higher salaries due to more advanced skills and responsibilities in animal care and habitat management.

Is zookeeper assistant an entry-level job?

Yes, a zookeeper assistant is typically considered an entry-level position that involves supporting zookeepers with daily tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and animal care. It often requires basic knowledge of animal handling and may serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in zoology or animal management.

What does a zookeeper assistant do?

A zookeeper assistant helps care for animals in a zoo by feeding, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring animal health. They often assist with habitat maintenance, observe animal behavior, and support zookeepers in daily tasks to ensure animal well-being and safety.
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Zookeeper Assistant Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper Assistant Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,766 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Ark Encounter Small Mammal Zookeeper Full Time

ANSWERS IN GENESIS GROUP

Williamstown, KY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Ararat Ridge Zoo exists to be a world-class zoo providing guests with experiences and education that inspire responsible stewardship of Creation and the purpose of God's design. The Small Mammal Zookeeper position requires experience working with a variety of Small Mammals in a working/educational zoo setting. The Small Mammal Zookeeper should have a strong background and experience working with exotic mammals, a basic understanding of animal health care and husbandry techniques, an awareness of animal enrichment, ability to perform vigorous physical activities both indoors and outdoors under all weather conditions and enjoy interacting with guests.

This position will allow one to impact others through a service mindset centered on making an eternal difference. This position should display our Core Values of SERVE (Serve, Equip, Relate, Value, Engage) when interfacing with both internal and external customers to ensure that the message and mission of Answers in Genesis is portrayed in an effective and God-honoring fashion. This position provides opportunities for spiritual, personal, and professional development.

Responsibilities

  • Promote the mission and standards of Answers in Genesis.
  • Create a SERVE culture environment in all work done.
  • Approach all tasks with a second mile mindset.
  • Prioritize personal integrity in all interactions and assignments.
  • Responsible for the animal care of animals at the Ararat Ridge Zoo at the Ark Encounter.
  • Involved in all facets of the attraction’s animal care program, related to cleaning animal habitats (e.g., rake, hose, sweep, disinfect, remove feces, clean building), operate guest contact areas and prepare animal diets/drink under the guidance of the keeper staff.
  • Educate guests on the animal kinds and care in petting or interacting with the animals during animal presentations and direct interaction with the animals
  • Ensure the safety and care of the animals as well as the guests or other employees.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and work as part of a Team.
  • Assist the Zoo’s Vet Tech and any attending veterinarian with animal health procedures.
  • Perform husbandry for the animal exhibits and upkeep of public areas.
  • Observe animals for changes in health or behavior.
  • Keep animal records as necessary.
  • Monitor guests graciously to ensure human and animal safety.
  • Communicate with guests to facilitate their appreciation of the Zoo and Ark.
  • Perform necessary repairs to fences, equipment and overall, Zoo as directed.
  • Perform all other duties and responsibilities as assigned by zoo management.
  • And all other duties and responsibilities assigned by management.

Requirements

  • Must agree with and be able to sign our Statement of Faith.
  • Maintains a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
  • Regularly attends a local Bible-believing church.
  • Availability to work weekends, holidays and all shifts.
  • Must be friendly and courteous with guests.
  • Must be able to stand and move about throughout the attraction for the entire length of shift.
  • Perform duties in varied temperature and weather conditions throughout the attraction (e.g., extreme heat/cold, wind, rain, snow)
  • Bend and lift between 50 to 100 pounds. 
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • To operate ministry trucks and vehicles must possess a valid driver’s license. 
  • Seasonal keepers will spend 75% of their time in guest-facing stations.

Education & Experience

  • Must have minimum of one year of work in animal care environment and/or pursuing associate or bachelor’s degree in zoology or related field.

Items Needed for Possible Employment

  • Completion of on-line application, https://answersingenesis.org   
  • Salary Requirements 
  • Salvation Testimony  
  • Creation Belief Statement 
  • Confirmation of your agreement with the AiG Statement of Faith (AiG Statement of Faith can be found on the website).  https://answersingenesis.org/about/faith/
  • Completion of a Background Check and Pre-Employment Drug Screen  
  • Completion of a Motor Vehicle Report

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