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Zookeeper Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Sedgwick County

PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 13126 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: 13126 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

Horticulturist - ZOO

Wichita, KS · On-site

$17.89/hr

Direct plant and hardscape choices, obtain all materials and equipment, and complete projects to zookeeper and horticulturists' standards. * Assist maintenance with large construction projects ...

Sedgwick County

Veterinary Technician - ZOO

Wichita, KS · On-site

$21.76/hr

Performs duties of the quarantine zookeeper as needed. This position participates in a mandatory on-call rotation. Animal Health * Assist veterinarians in providing health care for all taxa ...

City of Garden City, KS

Registrar

Garden City, KS · On-site

$20.88 - $25.45/hr

Zoo Administration Opening Date: 08/14/2026 Closing Date: 9/4/2026 11:59 PM Central Description The City of Garden City is accepting applications for Registrar with the Lee Richardson Zoo.

City of Garden City (KS)

Registrar

Garden City, KS

$20.88 - $25.45/hr

Examples of Duties Represents Zoo in a professional capacity as "Registrar." Maintains animal records (i.e. Species 360 - ZIMS) software and inputs animal transaction and other pertinent data to ...

City of Garden City, KS

Animal Keeper

Garden City, KS · On-site

$18.93 - $23.08/hr

Zoo Animal Care Opening Date: 08/21/2026 Closing Date: 9/4/2026 11:59 PM Central Description The City of Garden City is accepting applications for Animal Keeper with the Lee Richardson Zoo. This ...

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How much do zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper in Kansas is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zookeeper?

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.

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.

Do zookeepers make a lot of money?

Zookeepers typically earn a moderate salary that varies by experience, location, and employer. According to industry data, the median annual wage for zookeepers is around $30,000 to $40,000, with higher earnings possible for those with advanced skills or specialized certifications. Many zookeepers work full-time and may receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What qualifications do you need for a zookeeper?

Zookeepers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring candidates with a degree or coursework in biology, zoology, or animal science. Relevant experience, such as volunteering or internships, along with strong physical stamina and knowledge of animal care and safety procedures, are also important qualifications.
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For Zookeeper jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,898 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Sedgwick County

Wichita, KS

$20.72/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Sedgwick County rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

663rd of 853 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Department:  Zoo 

Job ID: 13126

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 reviews, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.  For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at SCBenefits.

In a team setting provides daily care for mammal collection including feeding, cleaning, observing, recording, and reporting behavior. Participates in animal well-being assessment practices. Produces and provides goal-based animal training and enrichment.   Inspects facilities for security, safety, repair and maintenance. Interacts and provides customer service to all Zoo defined customers. Job duties may extend to other animal taxa. This position participates in a mandatory on-call rotation.

Animal Care and Management

  • Ensure animals are housed and cared for in ways that meet all Zoo-defined goals.
  • Demonstrate and maintain knowledge of basic mammalian natural history, behavior, and terminology.
  • Recognize abnormalities and potential medical conditions and communicate observations of animal behavior and health condition to veterinary staff, supervisor, curator, and other pertinent staff members.
  • Handle animals for husbandry needs, medical purposes, and in preparation for transport.
  • Under the direction of veterinarians and/or supervisors, administer medications or treatments as instructed.
  • Prepare animal diets. Monitor and report to supervisor the quality of all dietary components, food intake by Zoo animals, and unintended diet consumption by non-collection animal pests.
  • Drive Zoological Society-owned vehicles, as needed, to care for or transfer animals to other zoological facilities. Animal transfer trips may occasionally require overnight travel.
  • Follow all safety protocols and area SOP’s while working with and around delicate, wild and potentially dangerous animals. Complete required training and safely operate all zoo required equipment for completion of job duties.

Animal Well-being

  • Through consultation with supervisors and other resources, develop and maintain a skillset of positive well-being, and animal training.
  • Conduct and evaluate appropriate enrichment activities as demonstrated by Zoo's enrichment program.
  • Uses positive reinforcement training to assess medical conditions and to maintain a safe working environment.

Area Maintenance

  • Clean and maintain service areas, animal habitats and public areas so they are clean, organized and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Complete daily inspections of animal habitats and associated facilities for security and safety concerns.
  • Conduct minor repairs to facilities or promptly submits concerns to supervisor.
  • Ensure that habitats are ready for public display in a timely manner.
  • Communicate any pest control concerns to supervisors or veterinary team.

Minimum Qualifications: Three years of experience in Biology, Zoology, Animal Care, or a related field. Up to three years of experience (all) may be substituted with education that provides applicable knowledge and skills. Per Sedgwick County policy, this is a driving level position that requires a valid US driver’s license without restrictions and current proof of automobile insurance.

Preferred Qualifications: Two years of animal care experience. Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques, experience with power tools, experience using a skid steer and bobcat. Degree in Zoology, Biology, or a related field from an accredited college or university.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws. Please find more information under the following link.  Apply for a Job | Sedgwick County, Kansas

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