Salary Range
Below $25,000 to $75,000Overview
Zookeepers provide the day-to-day care for animals in zoological parks. They prepare the diets, clean and maintain the exhibits and holding areas, and monitor the behavior of animals that range from the exotic and endangered to the more common and domesticated. Zookeepers interact with visitors and conduct formal and informal educational presentations. They sometimes assist in research studies, and depending on the species, may also train animals. Zookeepers are also known as animal caretakers.
Aquarists are specialized animal caretakers who work for aquariums, oceanariums, and marine research institutes. They maintain aquatic exhibits, feed animals, transport new specimens, and assist curators with various tasks.
Minimum Education Level
Associate's DegreeCertification/License
NoneOutlook
Much Faster than the AveragePersonality Traits
Hands On
Problem-Solving
Scientific
Career Ladder
Zoologist or Curator
Area Supervisor or Assistant Curator
Senior Keeper
Zookeeper
Zookeeper Trainee
Related Professions
- Animal Behaviorists
- Animal Breeders and Technicians
- Animal Caretakers
- Animal Handlers
- Animal Physical Therapists
- Animal Trainers
- Anthropologists
- Aquarists
- Archaeologists
- Archivists
- Artists
- Book Conservators
- Conservators and Conservation Technicians
- Education Directors and Museum Teachers
- Environmental Education Program Directors
- Ethnoscientists
- Exhibit Designers
- Gallery Owners and Directors
- Grant Coordinators and Writers
- Historians
- Historic Preservationists
- Museum Attendants
- Museum Directors and Curators
- Museum Technicians
- National Park Service Employees
- Pet Shop Workers
- Pet Sitters
- Taxidermists
- Tour Guides
- Veterinarians
- Veterinary Technicians
- Zoo and Aquarium Curators and Directors
- Zoologists