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Zookeeper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

SENIOR ZOOKEEPER The Area 2 Senior Zookeeper performs general daily animal care functions including the maintenance of live exhibits and holding facilities, animal training, diet preparation and ...

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

$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 Food Lead

Battle Creek, MI

$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 ...

Binder Park Zoo

Animal Care Intern (Fall)

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

This experience-based opportunity gives interns hands-on skills assisting staff in the daily care of animals and exhibits, record keeping, and interacting with zoo guests. The Animal Care Internship ...

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 ...

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How much do zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper in Michigan is $16.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.
More about Zookeeper jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs in Michigan are:
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What job categories do people searching Zookeeper jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Zookeeper jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Zookeeper jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Zookeeper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Zookeeper jobs in MI? For Zookeeper jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $35,083 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Bird Department Zookeeper

Detroit Zoological Society

Royal Oak, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Bird Department Zookeeper
General Description
The Bird Department Zookeeper provides care, feeding, enrichment and training for Birds to ensure their well-being and contributes to outstanding guest experiences by ensuring that Bird exhibits are properly maintained.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide daily care, including but not limited to, feeding, enrichment, and operant conditioning training for birds.
  • Perform routine exhibit maintenance including mowing, trimming, and other routine maintenance activities.
  • Observe and document physical condition and behavior of animals.
  • Inspect facilities to ensure safety and security.
  • Capture and restrain animals as needed.
  • Clean animal enclosures and other exhibit areas.
  • Assist with artificial incubation and hand-rearing.
  • Monitor animal social conditions and situations.
  • Monitor feather-clipping schedules and make recommendations to supervisor when clipping is needed.
  • Develop and submit enrichment practices to Behavioral Husbandry Team.
  • Design, construct, and provide enrichment devices to animals.
  • Provide medical treatments as prescribed by the veterinarians.
  • Communicate needs for maintenance department work requests to lead keeper or supervisor.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
  • Maintain records, inventories and other information and provide written and verbal reports as required.
  • Conduct educational presentations in both formal and informal settings.
  • Train new staff as required.
  • Train and supervise interns.
  • Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • A bachelor's degree in zoology or a closely related discipline and two years' experience in the care and management of birds.
  • OR: An associate degree in a related discipline and four years experiences in the care of captive wildlife, two of which include the care and management of birds.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to work with animals and to remain calm in strenuous circumstances.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to follow instructions.
  • Excellent time management skills.

Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors and outdoors with exposure to all seasonal weather conditions, with frequent exposure to and contact with dangerous animals, with risk of zoonotic disease transmission (Hepatitis B, Herpes B, Tuberculosis, Salmonella and others), and with exposure to computer monitors. Evening work may be required.
Physical Requirements
The Bird Department Zookeeper must be able to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds. The individual must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily with or without accommodations. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.
Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.

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