Zoo Keeping as a Career

The educational requirements for an entry level Zoo Keeper varies, but is often a university degree or college diploma in zoology, biology or an animal-related field/animal care. Specific animal care/field experience as a zoo volunteer, intern, co-op student or veterinary hospital worker and/or wildlife rehab centre worker is very helpful as well.

Zookeeping can be a demanding job requiring dedication, commitment and patience. Keepers are required to be reliable people who are willing to learn and improve their performance in a cooperative setting throughout the entirety of their career. Concern for their animals is essential since the animals’ lives depend largely on how the keepers view their jobs. Animal keepers must be physically able to perform the required work and be in a general state of good health. Because zoo animals require daily care and maintenance, keepers’ schedules include working weekends and holidays as well as shift work at times. Zoo Keeper jobs are at a premium and some applicants may become frustrated over the initial difficulty in entering the animal care profession. Job advancement is also possible, but more limited than in some other careers requiring a university degree. Zookeeping, however, offers a unique opportunity for an individual to pursue a career that is stimulating as well as demanding, and from which one may develop a deep sense of satisfaction.

Qualifications set out by the Toronto Zoo Board of Management for the position of Keeper, Grade 1:

• Must possess a certificate or diploma, at the community college level, in an animal related course of study or the equivalent training and experience.
• Must possess a minimum of two (2) years keeping experience in a major zoological collection.
• Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Must be able to produce brief but accurate reports.
• Must be able to answer questions from visitors and give educational talks.
• Must be capable of meeting the physical demands of the job, including the ability to lift 25 kg (55 lbs).
• Must possess a demonstrated interest in and desire to work with and learn the proper care of animals in captivity and to make the public aware of conservation.
• Must have working knowledge of Workplace Hazardous Information System (WHMIS) legislation, Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act and Toronto Zoo Safety Policy.
• Must possess the ability and willingness to work in a team setting.
• Must be able and willing to work shifts, weekends and holidays.

Employee Benefits

• Complimentary entry
• Ride tickets to the Zoomobile, Tundra Air and Gorilla Ropes Climb
• Employee discounts on retail merchandise
• Exclusive staff events
• Wellness programs and events, including a fitness centre onsite!
• Recognition and rewards programs
• Reciprocal Attraction benefits
• Comprehensive health and dental benefits for eligible employees
• Acres of walking paths, green space, and over 3000 animals on site
• And more!