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Zoos Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sedgwick County

PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.72/hr

Zoo Job ID: 12880 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 ...

Tulsa Zoo

Zookeeper - Commissary

Tulsa, OK · On-site

Zookeeper - Commissary Your Manager: Zoological Supervisor - Commissary Your Pay Structure (FLSA Status): Full-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is a safety-sensitive position. Regardless ...

City of El Paso

Zoo Keeper

El Paso, TX

$37.59K - $54.13K/yr

... Zoos and Aquariums' (AZA) animal health, welfare and conservation principles, standards and practices. Typical Duties Feed, water and care for exotic zoo animals and clean and maintain animal ...

Tulsa Zoo

Zookeeper Assistant

Tulsa, OK · On-site

Zookeeper Assistant Your Manager: Zoological Manager Your Pay Structure ( FLSA Status): Part-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is a safety-sensitive position. Regardless of whether you ...

FRESNOS CHAFFEE ZOO CORPORATION

Zoo Ranger

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17.78 - $18.66/hr

The Zoo Ranger supports FCZC's mission and vision by building community trust and providing a safe and welcoming environment for all of our guests and employees. We are pleased to offer this ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX

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

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

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

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II, Wildlife Connections

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

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 develop leadership skills.

Tulsa Zoo

Zookeeper - WildLIFE Trek

Tulsa, OK · On-site

Zookeeper - WildLIFE Trek Your Manager: Zoological Supervisor Your Pay Structure ( FLSA Status): Full-time, hourly/nonexempt Safety Sensitive: This is a safety-sensitive position. Regardless of ...

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How much do zoos jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoos in the United States is $15.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 background in animal science, biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Experience with animal care protocols, husbandry tools, and recordkeeping systems is typically expected. Strong observation skills, communication, and a passion for animal welfare set outstanding zookeepers apart. These skills are essential for ensuring the health, safety, and enrichment of animals while educating the public and supporting conservation efforts.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeepers in daily animal care?

Zookeepers often face challenges such as managing the diverse needs of different species, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and maintaining enrichment activities to keep animals mentally stimulated. Additionally, they must monitor animal health closely and respond quickly to any signs of illness or distress. Collaboration with veterinarians, nutritionists, and other staff is essential to provide the highest standard of care and to manage the physical demands of the job, such as cleaning enclosures and preparing specialized diets.

What are zoos and what purpose do they serve?

Zoos are facilities where animals are housed, cared for, and displayed to the public. They play important roles in wildlife conservation, education, and scientific research. Modern zoos aim to protect endangered species, support breeding programs, and teach visitors about biodiversity and animal behavior. Many also contribute to habitat preservation and collaborate with conservation organizations worldwide.

What is the difference between Zoos vs Animal Care Technicians?

AspectZoosAnimal Care Technicians
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, certifications in animal handlingHigh school diploma, certifications in animal care, CPR, first aid
Work EnvironmentZoo facilities, outdoor and indoor enclosures, public interactionAnimal habitats, veterinary clinics, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, wildlife parks, conservation centersZoos, animal shelters, research institutions

Zoos are large facilities that house diverse animal species and focus on conservation, education, and public engagement. Animal Care Technicians work closely with animals in various settings, providing daily care, feeding, and health monitoring. While both roles involve animal handling and care, zoos typically require broader knowledge of multiple species and public interaction, whereas Animal Care Technicians focus on hands-on animal maintenance and health in more specialized environments.

More about Zoos jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoos jobs? Cities with the most Zoos job openings:
What states have the most Zoos jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoos jobs include:
Zoos jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoos job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,239 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Sedgwick County

Wichita, KS • On-site

$20.72/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Sedgwick County rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

489th of 640 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Department: Zoo
Job ID: 12880
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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