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Zookeeper Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Hoofstock

Houston, TX · On-site

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. Job Duties and Responsibilities

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Hoofstock

Houston, TX · On-site

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. Job Duties and Responsibilities

houstonzoo

Zookeeper III, Hoofstock

Houston, TX · On-site

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. Job Duties and Responsibilities

City of El Paso, TX

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

ZOO GATE REVS ADMIN Opening Date: 06/18/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Exempt Requirements MOS Codes: None Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree or higher in Zoo Management, Veterinary ...

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How much do zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper in Texas is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $19.71 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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Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,500 per year, or $18 per hour.

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX • On-site

Houston Zoo
Museums and Historical Sites • 501 - 1,000 employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about Houston Zooexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Under the direction of a Zoo Supervisor, the Zookeeper is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations associated with the husbandry of the animals and the maintenance of animal enclosures within a specified Houston Zoo animal program. This position will coordinate all program objectives in addition to day-to-day husbandry and enclosure maintenance. Members of the Aquarium and Sea Lion/Penguin team will need to be active members on the dive team to do routine maintenance and cleaning of the aquatic environments, following all dive protocols.
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.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Carries out all aspects of the daily care of assigned animals including cleaning, feeding, exhibit maintenance, general upkeep of support facilities.
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, holding areas, service areas and equipment.
  • 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 Zoo Supervisor.
  • Maintains daily reports, logs, training and enrichment records, research, or veterinary records, as appropriate and according to established guidelines; requires basic skills with TRACKS and 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.
  • Understands and applies the basic principles of animal enrichment as part of the daily management of species under his/her care.
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas.
  • As appropriate, maintains water quality through filtration, balance of chemical elements, and sanitation methods for aquatic or semi-aquatic animal species.
  • As appropriate, maintains live exhibit plantings to enhance exhibit aesthetics; eliminates weeds and toxic plants from animal enclosures.
  • In conjunction with the Zoo's pest control officer, may assist in pest control using exclusion or traps.
  • Identifies potential maintenance or safety issues and reports them to the Zoo Supervisor.
  • Participates in keeper chats, tours, animal presentations or demonstrations, and/or other public interactions as requested by the Zoo Supervisor.
  • May assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for the Zoo projects.
  • Exhibits good teamwork and communication skills both within the home team and when working with other teams or departments.
  • May be required to safely operate a motor vehicle.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in all duties and all assigned work areas within a specified timeframe.
  • Serves as a point of contact for area staff, veterinarians, Facilities staff, and/or other departments in the absence of a Zoo Supervisor.
  • Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of interns, volunteers, and other area Keepers.
  • Assists Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of area standard operating guidelines.
  • Assumes select supervisory duties in the absence of Zoo Supervisors.
  • Serves as a positive role model for interns, volunteers, and other keepers and staff.
  • Demonstrates a clear understanding of the roles AZA zoos play in conservation and saving animals in the wild.
  • Actively pursues feedback and other resources to improve leadership skills and helps to improve such skills in other team members.
  • Contributes to saving animals in the wild through: reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protecting actions
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from four-year college or university in zoology, biology, animal husbandry or a related field.
  • Experience and education may be considered equivalent at the rate of six months of experience per 15 hours of college level credit, up to 60 hours.
  • A certificate of completion from an acceptable animal care program may be substituted for a Bachelor's degree.
  • Six years of experience in animal care at an AZA or equivalent facility, gained through employment or internships.
  • Experience with basic carpentry and mechanical skills.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license.

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. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
Full-time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.
  • Medical and Prescription Drug
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
  • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Supplemental Life
  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
  • 401k, with employer match

Full-time and Part-Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.
  • Free Zoo Membership
  • Free Guest Passes
  • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
  • Free parking

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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