 Salary Listing |
The zookeeper is in charge of caring for many of the animals held in captivity.
 |
|
|
Zookeeper SalaryZookeepers are in charge of caring for all the animals held in captivity, large and small. They care for everything from the smallest lizard to the elephants. While this may seem like a fun, glamorous job, there is a lengthy list of responsibilities the zookeeper takes on, including;
*Feeding the animals *Bathing and cleaning *Cleaning and sanitizing enclosures *Exercising the animals *Ensuring the animals are healthy and happy While this may sound like a fun job, interaction with certain animals is not always safe, and they all must be cared for the same. Some animals have to be fed at night, while others will only eat during the day. Each animal also has their own eating habits and dietary requirements, along with their own needs as far as hygiene and care go. As a zookeeper, you must take responsibility for those animals, and it typically means working on weekends, on holidays, and long hours. In addition to caring for the animals, the zookeeper is also in charge of answering questions to visitors and advising zoo management on potential issues and future plans.  The minimum educational requirement for a zookeeper is an associates degree, typically in zoology, biology, wildlife management, or animal science. Some even get their associates degree in animal training. Many continue on to higher education, getting a bachelor's degree in zoology or biology.
Most get their start volunteering at a zoo or animal sanctuary. This provides vital first-hand experience dealing with exotic animals that they will normally not have the change to interact with. This important experience is essential, along with the education. The median salary for a zookeeper is $28,000, which is right around $14 an hour. This is not including overtime or additional hours worked over 40. The normal zookeeper salary range is between $22,000 and $38,000 a year, or between $11 and $19 an hour. The average zookeeper salary is around $30,000 a year.
Those with more experience can expect to have a higher starting salary. The majority of zookeeper jobs are based on an hourly rate, which means there is a high likelihood of overtime pay. Being a zookeeper requires more than a standard education, but also requires a love of animals. If you don't enjoy being around a menagerie on a daily basis, then being a zookeeper may not be for you.
Post your salary and location: |
|
I DONT WANT TO