ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zookeeper Job Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Zoo Educator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$14/hr

As a Zoo Educator, you'll facilitate school groups ages K-12 in STEM lessons including Penguineering, Exhibit Design, and provide behind the scenes tours of areas like our Commissary and Aquarium.

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Line Cook

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Ever work at a zoo, it's fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo ...

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Retail Attendant

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$12.25 - $15.25/hr

Ever work at a zoo, it's fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo ...

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Food Lead

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Ever work at a zoo, it's fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo ...

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Bartender 18+

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$14.50/hr

Zoo Membership - during employment ($135 Value)  * Free Bus Passes   * Scholarship Opportunities * Free Lunches ($100 Value)  * Incentive Opportunities for Close Encounters and Behind-The ...

John Ball Zoo

Facilities Maintenance II

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$22.04/hr

Ability to interact positively and appropriately with coworkers, supervisors, managers, Zoo guests, contractors, concessionaires, and members of the general public with diverse cultural and socio ...

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Face Painter

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$13.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY Bring art to life at the zoo as a Face Painter! Join our team to add vibrant colors and excitement. If you love working with kids, have an artistic flair, and enjoy creating themed ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsZookeeper Job JobsZookeeper Job Jobs in Michigan

Zookeeper Job information

What is the difference between Zookeeper Job vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectZookeeper JobAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in animal handlingHigh school diploma, basic animal care training
Work EnvironmentZoological parks, aquariums, wildlife reservesAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos
Employer & IndustryZoos, aquariums, wildlife organizationsAnimal shelters, veterinary practices, zoos
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Zookeeper Job and Animal Care Technician roles both involve caring for animals in similar environments like zoos and aquariums. However, zookeepers often have more responsibilities, including animal enrichment and habitat maintenance, while animal care technicians focus more on daily feeding and basic health checks. Both roles require relevant certifications and are essential in animal welfare industries.

Do zookeepers get paid well?

Zookeepers' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and the institution, but generally they earn modest wages compared to other professions requiring similar education. Entry-level positions often pay around minimum wage, while experienced zookeepers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially at larger or private facilities.

How much do you get paid for a zookeeper?

Zookeepers typically earn an average annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and the institution. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced zookeepers or those working in specialized facilities can earn higher wages. Certifications in animal care and relevant skills can also influence pay rates.

What jobs do zookeepers do?

Zookeepers are responsible for caring for animals in zoos, which includes feeding, cleaning enclosures, monitoring health, and providing enrichment activities. They also observe animal behavior, assist with veterinary care, and educate visitors about wildlife conservation. Strong knowledge of animal behavior and safety procedures are essential in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Zookeeper Job jobs in Michigan?

For Zookeeper Job jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Zookeeper Job jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Zookeeper Job jobs in Michigan are:

Zookeeper Job jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper Job job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Zookeeper, Full-Time

Binder Park Zoo

Battle Creek, MI

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

ZOOKEEPER
Mission Statement: To Connect, Inspire, Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve.

REPORTS TO: Collections Supervisor
SEASONAL/NON-SEASONAL: Non-seasonal, Benefited
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Four year related degree OR a two year related degree AND two years’ paid experience in an animal related field.
  • Minimum one year experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting.
  • Experience working with giraffe, African hoofstock and / or primates a plus.
  • Excellent communication, judgment and record keeping skills.
  • Possessing a strong interest in working with animals and people.
  • Proof of negative TB test within one year and proof of tetanus shot within ten years.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Daily cleaning, feeding, and observing a group of potentially dangerous animals in a designated area.
  • Implement animal behavioral programs (operant conditioning/enrichment).
  • Maintaining accurate records.
  • Daily informing supervisor and veterinarian on physical and behavioral health of the animals in their areas.
  • Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of exhibits, guest viewing areas and animal holding areas.
  • Assisting with veterinary procedures as needed.
  • Complying with all AZA and USDA standards and regulations.
  • Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Providing assistance to co-workers, zoo attendants, interns and volunteers when needed.
  • Responsible for giving keeper talks.
  • Complying with safety regulations when handling hazardous materials.
  • Interacting positively with guests and providing assistance when needed.
  • Complying with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures.
  • Participating in team oriented zoo projects as needed.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: N/A

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
  • Ability to work long hours on a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, holidays and emergencies.
  • Ability to read, speak and write English in order to fulfill job functions in an understandable way.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in a physically demanding environment.

Apply