Zookeeper Jobs
Zookeepers are the backbone of any zoo. They're responsible for the daily care of animals, from birds and reptiles to large mammals and primates, and for maintaining the enclosures and environments that keep those animals healthy and thriving.
We list zookeeper openings from zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, safari parks, and animal care facilities across the country and beyond.
What Does a Zookeeper Do?
Day-to-day responsibilities vary by institution and the species you work with, but typically include:
- Animal husbandry: Feeding, health monitoring, behavioral observation, and detailed record-keeping for every animal in your care.
- Enclosure maintenance: Cleaning, repairing, and maintaining naturalistic habitats. This is physical work, often outdoors and in all weather conditions.
- Enrichment: Designing and implementing activities, puzzles, and environmental changes that stimulate natural behaviors and keep animals mentally and physically engaged.
- Training and conditioning: Working with animals on voluntary husbandry behaviors like crate training, target training, and cooperative medical procedures using positive reinforcement techniques.
- Guest engagement: Interpreting exhibits, answering visitor questions, leading keeper talks, and occasionally running behind-the-scenes tours or animal encounters.
Entry-level positions often carry titles like Keeper I, Animal Care Technician, or Assistant Zookeeper, while senior roles may include Lead Keeper, Area Supervisor, Curator of Mammals, or Director of Animal Care.
How to Become a Zookeeper
Most zookeepers start with a bachelor's degree in zoology, animal science, biology, or wildlife management, but the degree alone won't get you hired. This is a field where hands-on experience matters more than almost anything else. The most common path is to complete one or more zoo internships, build up volunteer hours at a zoo or wildlife facility, and gain as much direct animal care experience as possible before applying for your first Keeper I position.
The zoo world is small. The people you work alongside during an internship are often the same people who will hire you later, or recommend you to a colleague at another facility. Start building those relationships early.
Browse our current listings below, or use the search to find positions in your area. New opportunities are added regularly, so check back often or join our newsletter to get notified of new postings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zookeeper Jobs
What qualifications do I need to become a zookeeper?
Most zookeeper positions require a bachelor's degree in zoology, animal science, biology, wildlife management, or a related field. Beyond the degree, hands-on experience is critical. Completing one or more internships or logging significant volunteer hours at a zoo, wildlife sanctuary, or animal rescue will put you ahead of most applicants. Experience with a variety of species is a big plus.
What does a typical day look like for a zookeeper?
Most zookeepers start the day with morning rounds to check on animal health and behavior, followed by enclosure cleaning and food preparation. From there, the day usually involves feeding, enrichment setup, training sessions, record-keeping, and enclosure maintenance. Depending on the facility, you might also give keeper talks, assist with veterinary procedures, or run behind-the-scenes tours. No two days are exactly the same, and the work is physically demanding.
What's the difference between a zookeeper and a vet tech?
Zookeepers are responsible for the daily care and management of animals: feeding, enclosure maintenance, enrichment, training, and behavioral monitoring. Vet techs work under the direction of a veterinarian to provide medical care: assisting with exams, administering medications, running lab work, and supporting surgical procedures. In practice the two roles work closely together, and some professionals transition between them over the course of their careers.
How competitive are zookeeper jobs?
Extremely. Zookeeping is one of the most competitive fields in animal care. A single Keeper I opening at a well-known zoo can attract 100 to 200 applicants. The candidates who get hired almost always have internship experience, strong references from within the industry, and a track record of reliable hands-on animal work. Volunteering and networking at conferences improve your chances significantly.
Can I become a zookeeper without a degree?
It's rare but not impossible. Some facilities will consider candidates without a four-year degree if they have extensive hands-on experience, such as years of work at a wildlife sanctuary, farm, or animal rescue. That said, the vast majority of job postings list a bachelor's degree as a minimum requirement. If you're serious about this career, a degree in zoology, animal science, or biology is the safest route.
Is zookeeping physically demanding?
Yes. Zookeeping is one of the more physical careers in animal care. You'll be on your feet all day, often working outdoors in heat, cold, and rain. Daily tasks include lifting heavy food buckets and supplies, shoveling, hosing down enclosures, hauling enrichment items, and sometimes restraining animals for medical procedures. If you enjoy physical work and don't mind getting dirty, you'll fit right in.
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