Zookeepers: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
Zookeepers care for animals in zoos. They plan diets, feed animals, and monitor the animals eating patterns. They also clean the animals enclosures, monitor their behavior, and watch for signs of illness or injury. Depending on the size of the zoo, they may work with one species or multiple species of animals. Keepers may help raise young animals, and they often spend time answering questions from the public.
- Education Required
- Most animal care and service worker positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Training Required
- Most animal care and service workers learn through on-the-job training.
- Job Outlook
-
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 20% (Much faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Licenses/Certifications
- Although not required by law, certifications may help workers establish their credentials and enhance their skills. For example, several professional associations and hundreds of private vocational and state-approved trade schools offer certification for dog trainers.
- Median pay: How much do Animal Care and Service Workers make?
- $22,230 Annual Salary
- $10.69 per hour
Careers for Animal Care and Service Workers
- Animal care technicians
- Animal caregivers
- Animal caretakers
- Animal daycare providers
- Animal groomers
- Animal shelter workers
- Animal sitters
- Animal trainers
- Aquarists
- Aquarium tank attendants
- Cat and dog bathers
- Dog bathers
- Dog beauticians
- Dog groomers
- Dog handlers
- Dog sitters
- Dog trainers
- Dolphin trainers
- Groomers
- Grooms
- Guide dog instructors
- Guide dog mobility instructors
- Guide dog trainers
- Horse breakers
- Horse exercisers
- Horse trainers
- Keepers
- Kennel aides
- Kennel attendants
- Kennel helpers
- Kennel workers
- Licensed guide dog instructors
- Lion trainers
- Marine mammal trainers
- Nonfarm animal caretakers
- Pet feeders
- Pet groomers
- Pet sitters
- Pet stylists
- Seeing eye dog trainers