ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Exotic Animal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dancing Horses Theatre

Exotic Animal Intern

Delavan, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships available from APRIL to NOVEMBER. This internship is perfect for anyone wanting to specialize in the animal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScience JobsExotic Animal Jobs

exotic animal information

See salary details

$29.5K

$48.6K

$63.5K

How much do exotic animal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for exotic animal in the United States is $48,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exotic animal?

An Exotic Animal job involves working with rare, wild, or non-domesticated animals in various settings such as zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, veterinary clinics, or research facilities. Professionals in this field may include exotic animal veterinarians, zookeepers, wildlife rehabilitators, or animal trainers. Responsibilities can range from providing medical care and nutrition to conducting behavioral studies and ensuring proper habitat conditions. These jobs require specialized knowledge of animal behavior, biology, and welfare to ensure ethical and effective care.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for someone working with exotic animals?

Professionals in exotic animal roles typically start their day by feeding and observing the animals, checking enclosures for cleanliness and safety, and monitoring for any signs of illness or distress. They may also assist with medical treatments, enrichment activities, and behavioral training, as well as record-keeping and educational presentations. Collaboration with veterinarians, curators, and other animal care staff is common to ensure each animal receives comprehensive care. Responsibilities can vary based on work setting, such as zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or private facilities, but this role consistently involves hands-on, attentive care for a variety of unique species.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the exotic animal position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a role working with exotic animals, you need specialized knowledge in animal biology, husbandry practices, and relevant safety protocols, often supported by a degree in zoology, animal science, or a related field. Certifications such as Certified Exotic Animal Technician or training in animal handling equipment are commonly required, along with the ability to use record-keeping and enclosure maintenance systems. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication enhance the ability to care for diverse species and work within a team. These competencies help ensure the health and welfare of exotic animals while maintaining safe and efficient facility operations.

What is a high paying job that works with exotic animals?

A high-paying job working with exotic animals is often found as a zoo director, wildlife veterinarian, or specialized zookeeper. These roles typically require advanced education, certifications, and experience in animal care, conservation, or veterinary medicine, and may involve working in large facilities or research settings with specialized equipment. Salaries can range from $50,000 to over $100,000 annually depending on the position and location.
More about exotic animal jobs

What cities are hiring for Exotic Animal jobs?

Cities with the most Exotic Animal job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Exotic Animal jobs?

The most popular types of Exotic Animal jobs are:

What states have the most Exotic Animal jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exotic Animal jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Exotic Animal jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Exotic Animal jobs are:

exotic animal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exotic Animal job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,581 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Exotic Animal Intern

The Dancing Horses Theatre

Delavan, WI • On-site

$100 - $300/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID
Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships available from OCTOBER 2026 - APRIL 2027. This internship is perfect for anyone wanting to specialize in the animal industry. The internship provides hands-on training, feeding, and caring for mini-pigs, monkeys, raccoons, skunks, bobcats, foxes deer, llamas, goats, donkeys, wolves and much more.  Also bottle feeding baby animals!!  If you desire to work, learn and gain hands-on experience in this industry this is the perfect position for you! You will personally handle all our animals and be responsible for preparing a narrative to be presented to our guests and Children's Field trips. Many of our interns have gotten jobs with Zoos all over the country. We are located in Wisconsin at the Illinois border in a resort area.

Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Some knowledge of all phases of Exotic animal care.
  • 4-6 months commitment is preferred.

Benefits:
  • A small financial stipend is offered based on your experience.
  • Must live on-site we offer FREE dorm-style housing and a laundry facility.

Internships are available anytime:
  • October 2026 - April 2027.
  • Our training has allowed many of our interns to secure permanent jobs with us and other similar-type facilities.
  • We Offer Full Training.

Please email your resume immediately to info@animalgardens.com and we will send you more details, or call 262-728-820.