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Zookeeper Job Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sedgwick County

PT Zookeeper - Birds

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12947 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 - Birds

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12947 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 ...

Sonoma Consulting

Java Developer (Kafka, Zookeeper)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$50.75 - $65.50/hr

Java Developer (Kafka, Zookeeper) Full-time Company Description Halo Group is a premier provider of IT talent. We place technology experts within the teams of the world's leading companies to help ...

City of Hutchinson

Seasonal Zookeeper Aide

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$11 - $13/hr

If you have experience working with animals, you may be a great addition to our Zoo team. Make a difference with the City of Hutchinson! A Day in the Life: * Observes and interprets animal behaviors ...

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Zoo Keeper

Sarasota, FL · On-site

Job Title: Keeper Intro Department: Animal Custodial Reporting Relationship: Lead/Supervisor Work Schedule: Minimum 30-40 Hour Week Status: Hourly Salary Range: Summary of Duties: Responsible for ...

City of El Paso, TX

Zoo Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$160K - $175K/yr

ZOO GATE REVS ADMIN Opening Date: 01/15/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Exempt Requirements MOS Code: None The City of El Paso is recruiting for the position of Zoo Director. We are seeking a ...

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How much do zookeeper job jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper job 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 are some common challenges zookeepers face when working with a diverse range of animal species?

Zookeepers often work with a variety of animals, each with unique dietary, behavioral, and medical needs. One common challenge is adapting care routines to suit different species, which may require ongoing learning and flexibility. Additionally, zookeepers must be vigilant about safety protocols, both for their well-being and the animals’. Effective communication with veterinarians and other staff is essential, especially when monitoring animal health or managing breeding programs. These challenges make teamwork, attention to detail, and adaptability key skills for success in the role.

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.

What are zookeepers?

Zookeepers are animal care professionals responsible for the daily management, feeding, and well-being of animals in zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks. Their duties include preparing diets, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and sometimes assisting with breeding programs or educational presentations. Zookeepers often work closely with veterinarians and other staff to ensure the animals receive proper care. They play a vital role in conservation, helping to protect endangered species and educate the public about wildlife.

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

To thrive as a Zookeeper, you generally need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree and practical animal care experience. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and first aid certification is typically required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help zookeepers excel in both animal care and public education. These skills are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, safe enclosure maintenance, and positive interactions with visitors and colleagues.
More about Zookeeper Job jobs
What cities are hiring for Zookeeper Job jobs? Cities with the most Zookeeper Job job openings:
What states have the most Zookeeper Job jobs? States with the most job openings for Zookeeper Job jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Zookeeper Job jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zookeeper Job jobs are:
Zookeeper Job jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper Job job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,251 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Part time Zookeeper I, Wildlife Connections

houstonzoo

Houston, TX

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

This position is ideal for an experienced zookeeper who has hands-on experience in supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal exhibits within the specified area.  

Our Mission:  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. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

  • Carries out all aspects of the daily care of assigned animals including cleaning, feeding, exhibit maintenance, and general upkeep of support facilities. 
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas. 
  • Maintains water quality through filtration, balance of chemical elements, and sanitation methods for aquatic or semi-aquatic animal species. 
  • Maintains live exhibit plantings to enhance exhibit aesthetics and provide a comfortable environment for animals; 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. 
  • 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 supervisor. 
  • Maintains daily reports, logs, research or veterinary records, as appropriate and according to established guidelines; requires basic skills with 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. 

KNOWLEDGE: 

  • Two-year or four-year degree in one of the natural sciences or a closely related discipline is preferred. 

OR 

  • A certificate of completion from an acceptable animal care program of not less than 30 semester hours is preferred. 

EXPERIENCE: 

  • Two-year or four-year degree in one of the natural sciences or a closely related discipline or a certificate of completion from an acceptable exotic animal care program of not less than 30 semester hours is preferred. 
  • One year of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment, internships, or volunteer experience. 
  • Specific training and work experience in other settings, such as aquaculture, schools, nature centers, agricultural operations, or conservation centers may be considered on a case-by-case basis as fulfillment for the experience requirements. 
  • Strong interpersonal, team-building, and communication skills. 
  • Valid Texas driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 60 days of employment. 

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO 

The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.  

Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities.  Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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