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Zookeeper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Memphis Zoo

Zookeeper - Farm (Full Time)

Memphis, TN · On-site

The Zookeeper is primarily responsible for care of the animals at the Once Upon a Farm Exhibit. This exhibit allows visitors to see a variety of farm animals up-close, allowing touch if the animals ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II, Wildlife Connections

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

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:

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 ...

Rock 'n Roll

Zookeeper

Bronxville, NY · On-site

Company Description At the preseason tryouts for the U.S. Boomerang Team in Greenfield, Mass., one figure stands out among the hacky sack players and pizza delivery guys gathering in the soccer ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Wildlife Connections

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

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

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II, Wildlife Connections

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

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

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 ...

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How much do zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper 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.

How do you become a zookeeper?

To become a zookeeper, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a degree or coursework in biology, zoology, or animal science. Relevant experience through internships or volunteer work at zoos or animal facilities is also valuable, and certifications in animal care or safety can enhance job prospects.

Do zoo keepers get paid well?

Zookeeper salaries vary depending on experience, location, and the type of institution, but they generally earn modest wages compared to other professions. Entry-level positions often pay around minimum wage, while experienced zookeepers with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in larger or private zoos. Benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for advancement are also factors to consider when evaluating compensation.

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 are zookeepers?

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 Is a Zookeeper?

As a zookeeper, you care for zoo animals and educate visitors in a zoological park. Your job duties are to observe and record animal behavior, build enrichment items for exhibits, feed animals, clean animal habitats and enclosures, train animals, and provide basic veterinary care for sick and injured animals. You may specialize in one species or animal group, like primates, big cats, birds, reptiles, or marine animals. Alternatively, you could work with all types of animals and provide support to other specialized zookeepers.

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 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 at animal facilities, along with strong physical stamina and knowledge of animal care practices, are also important qualifications.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Zookeepers typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like surgeons, corporate executives, or high-level consultants. Some freelance or entrepreneurial jobs in finance, consulting, or technology can reach this level, but they often require significant experience, skills, or business success. Most standard jobs, including zookeeping, pay hourly or salaried wages well below this amount daily.
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Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zookeeper job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,251 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Zookeeper - Farm (Full Time)

Zookeeper - Farm (Full Time)

Memphis Zoo

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Summary:
The Zookeeper is primarily responsible for care of the animals at the Once Upon a Farm Exhibit. This exhibit allows visitors to see a variety of farm animals up-close, allowing touch if the animals approach the fence line. Keepers provide all daily husbandry for the animals, as well as training and enrichment. Keepers engage guests in informal chats throughout their daily routine since yards are public facing and give a formal keeper chat daily.
Collection Encompasses: Harlequin sheep, Guinea hogs, goats, Zebus, donkeys, and chickens (Orpington, Rhode Island Red, Cochin bantams).
Essential Job Functions:
  • Daily husbandry of assigned animals.
  • Facilitate formal and informal public presentations to engage guests and provide a positive guest experience.
  • Actively observe animals' behavior, reporting irregularities and abnormal behavior to supervisor.
  • Prepare and administer appropriate daily diets, medications and maintain accurate records of assigned animals.
  • Appropriately clean and disinfect assigned animal enclosures/barns according to written protocols and ensures a sanitary and safe environment.
  • Incorporate modern behavioral husbandry techniques such as operant conditioning and environmental enrichment into animal care.
  • Monitor public presence and engagement with the animals in potential contact exhibits.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Zoology, Biology, or a related field.
  • Previous experience with animal care and operant conditioning in a zoological or farm setting.

Competencies:
  • Critical Thinking.
  • Flexibility/Adaptability.
  • Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Problem Solving/Analysis.
  • Records and Reports Creation and Management.
  • Stress Management/Composure.
  • Teamwork Orientation.
  • Written/Verbal/Oral Communication.

Supervisory Responsibility: None
Reporting Structure: Reports to Associate Curator, Team Lead.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: Full-time positions are defined as positions scheduled to work approximately up to 40 hours a week. Scheduling is at the discretion of the manager. This position regularly requires flexible hours including weekdays, holidays, and weekends including early morning and daytime hours, and will occasionally require after-hours work.
This position is considered non-exempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws.
Work Environment: While performing the duties of the job, the employee will frequently work outdoors (Zoo grounds). When outdoors this position is required to work in various weather conditions including rain, humidity, and extreme heat or cold.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
This position requires frequent standing/walking/bending/kneeling/crouching and may occasionally move or lift objects up to 50 pounds.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Other Requirements:
  • 18 years or older.
  • Clear background check.
  • Clear drug screening.
  • Clear TB screening.

Benefits & Perks
The Memphis Zoo has a comprehensive benefits and employee perks package. Please see our Memphis Zoo Careers page for details.
EEOC and Inclusion Statement:
The Memphis Zoo believes that human diversity is as important as the biodiversity we seek to conserve. World-class zoos are comprised of world-class team members representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We value a diverse workplace and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and veterans to apply.
The Memphis Zoo is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws. If you need to request any accommodations for the interview or hiring process, please let the Human Resources team (HR) know. HR can be contacted at hrteam@memphiszoo.org.
The Memphis Zoo participates in E-Verify and is an EEO/ADA/Veteran employer.
All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment screening. Memphis Zoo is a drug-free workplace.
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
How to Apply:
Applications should be submitted via the Memphis Zoo Careers page. Please note that any other application submissions will not be considered. www.memphiszoo.org/careers.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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