How to Become a Zookeeper

Did you ever go to the zoo as a child (or maybe even with your family as an adult) and think about the wonderful career opportunities at that location — getting to care for animals who will spark a passion in the next generation for conservation and wildlife care? Are you inspired by animals and wildlife? Have you ever wanted to be part of that?

You can be! From educators, animal care specialists, and zookeepers, there are a number of roles at the zoo, and an animal health and behavior bachelor’s degree from Unity Environmental University can be your first step to fulfilling that dream.

If you’re committed to becoming a zookeeper, be prepared for in-depth study, tackling anatomy, physiology, and environmental science, not to mention practical skill development. We’re here to help. Read on to learn how to become a zookeeper as we touch on the most essential skills, networking opportunities, and zookeeper education requirements. 

What Does a Zookeeper Do?

Zookeepers work directly with animals, handling daily care essentials such as feeding, grooming, socialization, and enrichment. Their work ensures that animals remain in peak physical and mental condition while also offering opportunities for the public to learn about wildlife and conservation. 

What’s the Difference Between Zookeepers and Zoologists?

Zookeepers and zoologists share a powerful passion for wildlife conservation, but this passion manifests differently. Zoology careers typically center on research initiatives, with zoologists designing studies, observing animals, and publishing their findings in peer-reviewed journals. These insights can guide policymaking and grassroots efforts while increasing the public’s awareness of environmental concerns. 

Zookeeping is far more hands-on, often involving controlled environments such as zoos or wildlife parks. While some zookeepers are involved in research, their main prerogative is to help zoo-based animals achieve optimal health and well-being. Zookeepers may also interact with the public but in more of a face-to-face manner. 

Skills Needed to Be a Zookeeper

Zookeepers are multi-talented professionals. No two days look exactly alike in the dynamic zoo environment, so zookeepers should be prepared to tackle and embrace new challenges and opportunities. Skills worth developing include:

Animal Handling and Husbandry

Zookeepers draw on research-backed techniques to help them interact with and (when needed) restrain animals. Known as animal handling, this may involve specialized equipment but, more importantly, calls for a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, and behavior. Animal husbandry is similar but encompasses nutrition and disease prevention, too, with the goal of improving long-term health outcomes. 

Communication and Teamwork

Zookeepers work within close-knit teams of professionals. On a typical day, they may interact with veterinarians, zoo managers, zoo directors, or zoology specialists. In addition, some zookeepers communicate extensively with patrons, taking on an educational role to help visitors learn about animals, their habitats, and relevant conversation initiatives. 

This skill extends to animal communication: Zookeepers must understand how to adapt their body language and tone of voice when working with various species — or animals with different temperaments. 

Physical Stamina and Adaptability

Zookeeping is physically demanding. Job descriptions reference the need to lift 50 pounds or more. Handling can be strenuous, especially if it involves physically restraining animals. Other such responsibilities may include cleaning enclosures, distributing food, and setting up or maintaining animal enrichment activities.

Excellent physical fitness can help zookeepers meet these unique demands, but mental adaptability is also key. Even properly managed animals can be unpredictable, so zookeepers should be prepared to adjust their approach accordingly. When it comes to animal routines, experts at the American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) explain that a “too-set” routine can “adversely affect animals as much as too much variation, or no routine at all.” Zookeepers must walk the fine line between routine and flexibility with ease. 

Passion for Animals and Conservation

Zookeepers are driven by a deep-seated passion for working with animals. They are fascinated by wildlife and eager to develop close bonds with the animals in their care. Furthermore, they are committed to preserving threatened and endangered species. They hope that, by bringing the power of animal interactions to the public, they will inspire zoo visitors to act as advocates for wildlife conservation. 

Steps to Becoming a Zookeeper

As you develop the core skills and knowledge highlighted above, you can also take practical steps to advance in the competitive field of zookeeping. Your career trajectory will depend on your unique interests and goals, but becoming a zookeeper nearly always involves the following steps:

Obtain a relevant education. Zookeeper education requirements can vary, but most employers now mandate that entry-level professionals secure their bachelor’s degree. Not just any degree will do; the ideal program will place a strong emphasis on animal behavior and environmental issues. The Bachelor of Science in Animal Science is an excellent option as well as relevant to other animal-centered fields.

Gain hands-on experience. Guidance on how to become a zookeeper would be incomplete without emphasizing the need for hands-on experience. This can be gained, to some extent, through immersive degree programs, but there are numerous other ways to get comfortable working with animals or in a zoo environment. Volunteering is a great option, with many zoos seeking hardworking volunteers to connect with patrons and even assist with food preparation or animal enrichment. Many zoos also offer part-time positions or internships. These help students bridge the gap between animal-centric coursework and the realities of working directly with animals.

Network with professionals. The zookeeping community is broader than many might realize, and a robust network is crucial for uncovering the field’s best opportunities. Networking often begins with joining professional organizations such as the previously mentioned AAZK. Get involved with chapter activities or attend annual conferences. Don’t neglect social media, which can help you connect with animal care professionals.

Apply for zookeeper positions. Your first job as a zookeeper can set the stage for your eventual climb up the career ladder. If possible, begin this journey with a paid internship. Continue seeking positions that reflect your interests and long-term career goals. Professional platforms such as LinkedIn can uncover valuable opportunities, as can job boards from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Continue learning and growing. Earning a degree is only the beginning. Through association memberships and continuing education coursework, you can uncover zookeeping’s most exciting developments. Continue to expand your skill set as you learn about new handling techniques, technological opportunities, and other industry trends. Consider taking on positions within multiple types of facilities to further enhance your skills and your professional network.

Job and Salary Outlook for Zookeepers

It is possible to earn strong wages as a zookeeper, although salaries can look dramatically different depending on experience, academic attainment, specialization, and geographic location. This should play into career planning, but be mindful of the big picture and account for benefits, work-life balance, and even differences in cost of living.

For animal care and service workers, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates a current median pay of nearly $32,000 per year and projects a job outlook of 15% growth between 2023 and 2033 — much faster than the national average for all occupations. Additionally, insights from Glassdoor indicate that zookeepers specifically earn average annual wages of $54,431. This field offers some opportunities for advancement, however, including the chance to become a zoo manager. On average, this senior-level position pays $75,811 per year. 

Animal Care and Service Workers Fast Facts

Recommended Education	4-Year Bachelor’s Degree
Median Salary (2023)	$31,830 per year
Workers Employed in U.S. (2023)	422,500
Projected Job Openings by 2033	64,300
Projected Growth Rate	15% (much faster than average)

Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023

Jumpstart Your Zookeeper Career With an Animal Science Degree 

Are you enthusiastic about animals and wildlife conservation? Would you like to build this passion into your career? You could have an exciting future in zookeeping. 

First things first: Look into satisfying zookeeper education requirements as you learn about animal anatomy, nutrition, and husbandry. As you pursue your Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with Unity Environmental University, you’ll take a deep dive into these fascinating topics. Reach out today to request more information. 

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