Becoming a zookeeper is one of the most rewarding careers in animal care. It is a hands-on profession that combines animal science, behavioral observation, physical endurance, and daily responsibility for the welfare of living creatures. Zookeepers play a critical role in zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation facilities by ensuring animals are healthy, enriched, and thriving.
This guide will walk you through what zookeepers actually do, the education and experience you need, the specializations available, and what employers look for when hiring. If you are serious about working with animals, this is where your journey begins. But never forget, your quality of work is their quality of life.
What Does a Zookeeper Do?
Zookeepers are responsible for the daily care, monitoring, and long-term wellbeing of animals in a zoo or wildlife facility. While responsibilities vary by institution and animal collection, most zookeepers work at the intersection of animal husbandry, behavioral observation, and team coordination. Core responsibilities include:
- Animal care and feeding Preparing species-specific diets, feeding on strict schedules, and monitoring appetite and behavior to detect early signs of illness or stress. Zookeepers collaborate closely with veterinarians, nutritionists, and fellow keepers to adjust diets and care plans based on each animal's species, age, health, and individual needs.
- Health monitoring and veterinary support Observing animals daily for changes in behavior, movement, appetite, or social dynamics. Keepers assist with veterinary examinations, administer medications, and support medical procedures. Many keepers also conduct training sessions that teach animals to voluntarily participate in their own medical care, such as presenting a limb for blood draws or opening their mouth for dental checks.
- Enclosure maintenance and enrichment Cleaning and maintaining enclosures, ensuring habitats are safe and functional, and designing enrichment activities that keep animals physically active and mentally stimulated. Enrichment can range from puzzle feeders and scent trails to novel objects and habitat rearrangements. Keepers often rotate enrichment strategies to prevent habituation and encourage natural behaviors.
- Record keeping and education Maintaining detailed daily logs on animal behavior, diet, health observations, and enrichment responses. Keepers also educate visitors through informal talks, guided encounters, and educational presentations, connecting the public to conservation efforts and the animals in their care.
A typical day begins with visual checks to confirm every animal is healthy and accounted for. Food preparation and feeding follow, along with enclosure cleaning, which often involves safely shifting animals between holding areas. Later in the day, keepers may conduct training sessions, mentor interns, update records, or assist with veterinary procedures.
It is important to understand that zookeeping is not about playing with animals. It is physically demanding, often messy work performed outdoors in all kinds of weather, early mornings, weekends, and holidays included.
Zookeeper Specializations
Many zookeepers specialize as their careers progress. Specialization often develops naturally based on which animal department a keeper is assigned to, and deepens over years of focused experience. Some of the most common keeper specializations include:
- Carnivore Keepers Carnivore keepers manage the care of predatory species such as big cats, wolves, bears, and wild dogs. This specialization requires a strong understanding of predator behavior, strict adherence to safety protocols, and experience with protected contact or barrier-based management systems. Carnivore keepers must be especially skilled in behavioral observation, as subtle changes in a predator's routine can signal health issues or stress. The work demands constant situational awareness, as keepers often manage animals that are inherently dangerous.
- Primate Keepers Primate keepers work with species ranging from lemurs and marmosets to gorillas and chimpanzees. Primates are among the most socially complex animals in any zoo collection, so this specialization requires deep knowledge of social dynamics, dominance hierarchies, and behavioral enrichment. Primate keepers frequently use positive reinforcement training for husbandry behaviors and medical cooperation. The emotional intelligence required for this role is significant, as primates form strong social bonds and keepers must carefully manage group introductions, separations, and day-to-day social wellbeing.
- Hoofstock Keepers Hoofstock keepers care for ungulates such as giraffes, zebras, antelope, bison, and deer. These keepers manage animals that often live in large, mixed-species exhibits, requiring knowledge of herd behavior, interspecies dynamics, and spatial management. Hoofstock care involves monitoring for hoof-related health issues, managing breeding programs, and maintaining pasture and paddock conditions. Because many hoofstock species are flight animals, keepers must be skilled in low-stress handling techniques and patient, methodical approaches to animal management.
- Aviculture Keepers Aviculture keepers specialize in the care of birds, from raptors and parrots to penguins and shorebirds. This specialization covers an enormous range of species with vastly different care requirements, diets, and environmental needs. Aviculture keepers manage aviaries, incubation programs, hand-rearing protocols, and flight conditioning. Many also work with free-flight programs or educational bird presentations. A strong understanding of avian physiology, molting cycles, and breeding behavior is essential.
- Reptile and Amphibian Keepers (Herpetology) Herpetology keepers manage cold-blooded species including snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodilians, frogs, and salamanders. This specialization requires precise environmental control, as reptiles and amphibians are highly sensitive to temperature, humidity, and lighting conditions. Keepers must understand thermoregulation, seasonal behavioral changes, and species-specific husbandry requirements. Working with venomous species adds an additional layer of safety protocols and specialized training.
- Elephant Keepers Elephant keepers work with one of the most demanding and specialized areas of zookeeping. Elephant care requires extensive training, deep knowledge of elephant behavior and social structure, and strict safety protocols. Many facilities operate under protected contact systems where keepers interact with elephants through barriers. Elephant keepers manage complex daily routines that include foot care, skin assessments, behavioral training, and environmental enrichment designed for highly intelligent, social animals.
Education and Training Requirements
There is no single path to becoming a zookeeper, but most employers look for a combination of formal education and proven hands-on experience. Academic training provides the scientific foundation needed to understand animal biology and care, while practical experience demonstrates the ability to apply that knowledge in real working environments.
In hiring decisions, zoos often value candidates who show both an understanding of biological principles and the practical ability to work safely and effectively with animals. Education helps candidates stand out, but it is rarely sufficient on its own without field experience.
Common Degree Paths
Most accredited zoos in the United States require at least a bachelor's degree for keeper positions. Common degree paths include:
- Zoology Focuses on animal behavior, physiology, taxonomy, and ecology. This is one of the most directly relevant degrees for aspiring zookeepers.
- Biology Provides a broad scientific foundation in animal systems, genetics, and ecology that applies across species and facility types.
- Animal Science Emphasizes animal husbandry, nutrition, and welfare management, often with practical coursework that translates well to zoo settings.
- Wildlife Biology or Conservation Science Centers on species management, ecosystem dynamics, and conservation principles, aligning well with the mission of accredited zoos.
- Marine Biology Relevant for keepers interested in aquatic exhibits, marine mammals, or facilities that house both terrestrial and aquatic species.
While these degrees are common, employers typically assess how well candidates can apply their education in practice, particularly through internships, volunteering, or entry-level roles within zoos, wildlife centers, or related facilities.
In Europe, many keepers enter the field through animal management or zoo-keeping vocational programs that combine academic study with structured practical placements. These programs offer a direct pathway into the profession and are widely recognized by zoological institutions.
Internships and Volunteering (Critical for Getting Hired)
Internships and volunteering are among the most important factors in securing a zookeeper position. In many cases, employers place greater value on relevant hands-on experience than on academic credentials alone. For a full breakdown of when to apply, what internships pay, and how to stand out, see our guide to zoo internships.
Zoos use internships to evaluate candidates in real working conditions. These roles allow aspiring keepers to demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, safety awareness, physical fitness, and the ability to work as part of a team. Many full-time zookeepers began their careers through internship or volunteer pathways that later led to paid positions.
What internships typically involve: Internship responsibilities may include assisting with daily animal care, preparing diets, cleaning and maintaining enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and supporting senior keepers during routine operations. While some tasks are repetitive or physically demanding, they are essential for building trust, learning protocols, and gaining exposure to how zoos function behind the scenes.
Volunteering as an entry point: For candidates without formal experience, volunteering at zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, farms, animal shelters, or conservation organizations can serve as a critical entry point. Volunteering demonstrates commitment, builds practical skills, and provides valuable references from professionals already working in the field.
Why this experience matters to employers: From a hiring perspective, internships and volunteering show that a candidate understands the physical and routine nature of the work, can follow protocols and safety procedures, communicates effectively within multidisciplinary teams, and is genuinely committed to the profession. For many zoos, internships and volunteer programs also serve as a direct pipeline for future hiring, making them one of the most effective ways to transition into an entry-level keeper role.
Advanced Degrees: Are They Necessary?
Master's or PhD programs can be valuable for keepers who want to move into research, conservation science, or leadership roles within zoos. Advanced degrees allow zookeepers to develop deeper expertise in specialized areas such as species conservation, reproductive biology, behavioral ecology, or wildlife management.
That said, advanced degrees are not required for most operational keeper roles. Many zoos prioritize practical experience, reliability, and teamwork over academic credentials. Candidates considering graduate study should pursue advanced degrees when they align clearly with research, conservation, or curatorial ambitions rather than as a general requirement for employment.
I'm in Middle School or High School. How Can I Start Preparing?
It is never too early to start building toward a career as a zookeeper. Whether you are in middle school or high school, the steps you take now can set you apart when it comes time to apply for internships, college programs, and eventually your first keeper position.
Middle School (Grades 6–8)
At this stage, the most important thing you can do is feed your curiosity and start gaining real exposure to animals and the people who care for them.
Read widely about animals, wildlife, and conservation. Books, magazines, documentaries, and reputable online resources all help you build the foundation of knowledge that every zookeeper needs. Visit zoos, aquariums, wildlife centers, and natural history museums whenever you can, and pay attention to how keepers interact with animals. Watch how they communicate with the public. Notice the routines. These observations will be more valuable than you realize later on.
If your local zoo or aquarium offers youth programs, zoo camps, or junior volunteer opportunities, sign up. These programs give you hands-on experience in a professional animal care setting and help you start building connections with people who work in the field. Even volunteering at an animal shelter or wildlife rehabilitation center counts. The goal is to start learning what real animal care looks like beyond what you see as a visitor.
Let your teachers and school guidance counselor know you are interested in animal-related careers. They can help you choose electives in science and environmental studies, connect you with local opportunities, and support you as you explore the field.
High School (Grades 9–12)
High school is where preparation becomes more intentional. Focus on coursework, gain hands-on experience, and start thinking about what comes after graduation.
Build your academic foundation. Prioritize biology, chemistry, environmental science, and math. These subjects provide the scientific grounding required for zoology, animal science, and related degree programs in college. Strong writing and communication skills also matter, since keepers maintain detailed records and regularly interact with the public.
Get hands-on experience. Volunteer at zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, farms, animal shelters, or veterinary clinics. If you are old enough for a part-time job, paid work at a veterinary hospital, horse stable, livestock farm, or pet care facility carries real weight on your resume. Employers value candidates who have spent time doing the daily, unglamorous work of animal care, not just those who have studied it.
Apply for youth internship programs. Many accredited zoos and aquariums run structured programs for high school students, especially during summer. These internships give you behind-the-scenes access to professional zookeeping teams and can serve as a direct stepping stone to college-level internships and eventually employment. Check out our guide to high school summer zoo internships in the USA.
Start researching colleges and degree programs. Look for schools with strong programs in zoology, biology, animal science, wildlife biology, or conservation science. If a school offers hands-on fieldwork, partnerships with zoos, or dedicated animal behavior labs, that is a significant advantage. Starting your college research early means you can align your high school coursework and extracurriculars with what those programs look for in applicants.
Connect with professionals. Attend local wildlife events, follow keepers and zoo educators on social media, and look into organizations like the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK), which offers resources specifically for aspiring keepers. Building relationships in the zoo community early can lead to mentorship, recommendations, and awareness of opportunities that are not widely advertised.
Starting early allows you to accumulate experience, develop practical skills, and build a network of references well before you enter the job market. Every volunteer shift, every internship, and every conversation with a working keeper adds to your foundation and brings you closer to a career in zookeeping.
Can You Become a Zookeeper Without a Degree?
High school is where preparation becomes more intentional. Focus on coursework, gain hands-on experience, and start thinking about what comes after graduation.
Build your academic foundation. Prioritize biology, chemistry, environmental science, and math. These subjects provide the scientific grounding required for zoology, animal science, and related degree programs in college. Strong writing and communication skills also matter, since keepers maintain detailed records and regularly interact with the public.
Get hands-on experience. Volunteer at zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, farms, animal shelters, or veterinary clinics. If you are old enough for a part-time job, paid work at a veterinary hospital, horse stable, livestock farm, or pet care facility carries real weight on your resume. Employers value candidates who have spent time doing the daily, unglamorous work of animal care, not just those who have studied it.
Apply for youth internship programs. Many accredited zoos and aquariums run structured programs for high school students, especially during summer. These internships give you behind-the-scenes access to professional zookeeping teams and can serve as a direct stepping stone to college-level internships and eventually employment. Check out our guide to high school summer zoo internships in the USA.
Start researching colleges and degree programs. Look for schools with strong programs in zoology, biology, animal science, wildlife biology, or conservation science. If a school offers hands-on fieldwork, partnerships with zoos, or dedicated animal behavior labs, that is a significant advantage. Starting your college research early means you can align your high school coursework and extracurriculars with what those programs look for in applicants.
Connect with professionals. Attend local wildlife events, follow keepers and zoo educators on social media, and look into organizations like the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK), which offers resources specifically for aspiring keepers. Building relationships in the zoo community early can lead to mentorship, recommendations, and awareness of opportunities that are not widely advertised.
Starting early allows you to accumulate experience, develop practical skills, and build a network of references well before you enter the job market. Every volunteer shift, every internship, and every conversation with a working keeper adds to your foundation and brings you closer to a career in zookeeping.
Yes, although it requires persistence, planning, and a willingness to invest significant time in building practical experience. Some facilities, particularly smaller zoos, wildlife parks, and sanctuaries, hire keepers based primarily on demonstrated experience and reliability rather than formal academic credentials.
Common strategies for entering the field without a degree include accumulating extensive hands-on experience through volunteering or internships at multiple facilities, starting in entry-level or assistant keeper roles to build trust and skills on the job, completing relevant certifications and training programs to supplement practical knowledge, and networking within the zoo and wildlife community to learn about opportunities and receive recommendations.
It is worth noting that most accredited zoos in the United States list a bachelor's degree as a minimum requirement for keeper positions. However, candidates with exceptional practical experience, strong professional references, and a proven track record of reliable animal care work can sometimes be considered. This path generally takes longer, but it remains a viable route into the profession for highly motivated candidates.
How to Get Hired as a Zookeeper (What Employers Look For)
Many candidates struggle not because they lack passion for animals, but because they misunderstand how zoos make hiring decisions. Employers look for individuals who can operate safely, follow established procedures, and contribute reliably to a team-oriented environment. Understanding what hiring managers actually prioritize can make the difference between landing a position and being passed over.
What hiring managers prioritize
Hands-on experience is consistently the most valued qualification. Internships, long-term volunteering, or work at wildlife rehabilitation centers, farms, or shelters demonstrate that a candidate can handle the physical, routine, and sometimes unglamorous aspects of animal care.
Reliability and teamwork matter more than many candidates realize. Zoos operate on strict daily schedules. Animals must be fed, exhibits must be cleaned, and safety protocols must be followed, every single day. Hiring managers look for candidates who show up consistently, communicate clearly, and work well within multidisciplinary teams that include other keepers, veterinarians, educators, and maintenance staff.
Observation and record-keeping skills are essential. Much of a keeper's value comes from their ability to notice subtle changes in an animal's behavior, appetite, movement, or social interactions and to document those observations accurately. Strong record-keeping supports veterinary care, behavioral research, and long-term animal management.
Skills that strengthen your application
Scuba diving certification is valuable for keepers who may work with aquatic exhibits, semi-aquatic species, or facilities that maintain underwater habitats. First aid training demonstrates preparedness and safety awareness. Emergency animal handling experience or certifications show specialized readiness. Experience with positive reinforcement training is increasingly valued as more zoos adopt voluntary participation in medical procedures. Strong written and verbal communication with colleagues, supervisors, and the public rounds out a competitive profile.
Practical steps to get started
Volunteer early. Gain hands-on experience at wildlife centers, farms, or animal shelters. These roles teach animal handling, teamwork, and responsibility, all skills valued by zoos.
Apply for zoo internships. Many accredited zoos run structured internship programs that can lead to full-time employment. Internships give you insider exposure to how professional zookeeping teams operate and can serve as direct hiring pipelines.
Network with professionals. Attend zoo conferences, local wildlife events, or connect with keepers on LinkedIn. Many first jobs come through word-of-mouth or recommendations from people already in the field.
Tailor your resume. Highlight any direct animal experience, even outside a zoo setting: veterinary clinics, farms, aquariums, rehabilitation centers, or shelters. Focus on showing responsibility, consistency, and a genuine track record in animal care. Reviewing current zookeeper job listings can help you understand the specific qualifications and experience that employers are asking for right now.
The key is to start early and stay consistent. Volunteering and internships not only give you valuable experience but also help you build a professional network that opens doors later. Every bit of real-world experience adds credibility and gives you concrete stories to share in interviews.
Additional Career Paths in Zoos
Not everyone who works in a zoo is a zookeeper. Zoos employ professionals across a wide range of disciplines, and understanding the full landscape can help you find the right fit. Related career paths include veterinary technicians who assist with animal health, diagnostics, and medical procedures; zoo educators who lead tours, design programming, and teach conservation to visitors of all ages; conservation scientists who manage breeding programs, field research, and species reintroduction initiatives; curators who oversee entire animal departments and shape collection planning; and operational roles in marketing, finance, guest services, and facilities management that keep zoos running behind the scenes.
Exploring different roles early in your career, whether through volunteering or internships, can help you discover where your skills and interests align best within the zoo industry.
Final Thoughts
A career as a zookeeper is demanding, physical, and deeply rewarding. The work requires patience, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to the care of living animals. While the path into the profession is not always straightforward, it is accessible to those who are prepared and persistent.
Success comes from combining education with hands-on experience, continuously building practical skills, and understanding how zoos evaluate and hire candidates. By approaching the career with realism, curiosity, and a willingness to learn, aspiring zookeepers can build a sustainable and fulfilling career in one of the most meaningful fields in animal care.
Ready to take the next step? Browse current zookeeper job listings on ZoosHiring.com and start planning your career today.
