As the world becomes increasingly connected, people are turning to zoos as a way to get closer to animals.
Zookeepers are essential members of any wildlife conservation facility.
And with good reason: zoos are amazing places that teach children about conservation and the natural world.
But before you can become a zookeeper, you first need to know all that this position entails.
If you’re interested in becoming a zookeeper, here are some education requirements and work experience tips to help you on your way.
Zookeeper Job Description
A zookeeper is responsible for the care and maintenance of animals in a zoo. They work with the staff to keep the animals healthy and comfortable and make sure they are fed, watered, and in their cages as needed.
Zookeepers also help keep track of the animals’ behavior and movements so that they can be monitored and corrected as needed.
Furthermore, a zookeeper may work with animals in the zoo’s collection, monitor the animals’ habitats, and provide training and guidance to zoo staff.
Zookeepers must have knowledge of animal behavior and be able to handle emergencies.
Zookeepers must also be able to keep track of the animals’ food, water, and shelter needs, as well as make any necessary repairs or modifications to the zoo’s facilities.
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How To Become A Zookeeper
A career as a zookeeper can be exciting, educational, and rewarding, here is a step-by-guide on how to become a zookeeper:
1. Complete A Bachelor’s Or An Associate Degree
If you want to become a zookeeper, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s or an associate degree in animal sciences.
This degree will give you the necessary knowledge to work as a zookeeper, conservationist, or research associate in the animal sciences field.
The program consists of 36 credit hours, which you can complete over three years. During your first year, you will take courses in zoology, animal physiology, animal behavior, and management.
In your second year, you will focus on research projects. You will also take courses in statistics and laboratory techniques. In your final year, you will complete a thesis or project.
There are a number of schools that offer Zookeeper Associate of Science degrees, be sure to research the school that best suits your interests.
2. Gain Experience
Becoming a zoo keeper can be a rewarding and exciting career path. There are many different ways to gain experience as a zookeeper, and some of the most common include working as a volunteer at a zoo, studying at an accredited zoological program, or completing an apprenticeship.
Zookeepers must have strong animal care skills and knowledge in order to work with all kinds of animals. Zoo keepers must be able to handle stressful situations, such as when animals are sick or injured.
They also need to be able to take care of the zoo’s facilities, including its gardens and enclosures. In order to become a successful zookeeper, it is important to have excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
3. Compile Your Resume And Apply To Entry-Level Positions
The zookeeper job market is always growing, so it’s important to compile your resume and apply to entry-level positions.
Here are some tips to help you write a resume that will get you hired:
- Start by creating a chronological summary of your experience. Include highlights of your work experiences, volunteer work, and educational achievements.
- Include references if possible. This will help prove that you have the relevant skills and experience for the job you’re applying to.
- Use tailored language when writing your resume. Target the specific position you’re applying to and use keywords that are specific to that position.
- Keep your resume brief and to the point. Remember, you want employers to be able to see how well you match the qualifications listed for the position you’re applying to.
- Use a modern resume format. This will help your resume stand out from the crowd and make it easier for recruiters to find what they’re looking for.
4. Attend Interviews And Receive A Job Offer
If you are interested in becoming a zookeeper, the best way to get started is by attending interviews.
Many organizations require Zookeeper candidates to have a degree in zoology or another related field, but many places also may be willing to consider applicants without a degree.
If you do not have a degree, you may be able to gain experience as a zookeeper by working at an animal shelter or zoo.
Once you have built up your experience, you can now get a job as a zookeeper.
Zookeeper Education Requirements
Zookeeper education requirements vary depending on the position you are applying for, but most zookeepers need a bachelor’s degree in animal science, wildlife management, or another related field.
Zookeepers must also have at least two years of experience working with animals in a professional setting.
Many states also require certification from an accredited organization such as the American Zoological Association (AZA). A few years of experience working with and caring for animals is also often required.
Zookeeper Work Experience
To become a zookeeper, you will need a degree in Zoology from an accredited college or university. You will also need 1,000 hours of zoo experience, preferably working with animals in a professional setting.
Once you have all of the required education and experience, the next step is finding a job as a zookeeper.
The best way to find work as a zookeeper is to contact your regional zoo or aquarium and ask if they are hiring. Alternatively, you can search online for job listings in your area.
Skills Zookeepers Should Possess
Here are some of the skills zookeepers need to have to be successful in this role:
1. Interpersonal skills
Interpersonal skills are essential for any zookeeper. They are necessary to maintain relationships with zoo animals and keep the zoo running smoothly.
Zookeepers need to be able to interact with the public, deal with difficult animal behavior, and supervise staff.
Zookeepers must be able to read and understand people. They need to be patient and understanding when dealing with zoo animals, and they must be able to work well as part of a team.
2. Problem Solving Skill
Problem solving skills are essential for any zoo keeper. With the ever-changing environment of a zoo, there will always be new challenges to face.
This skill can help zookeepers quickly identify and solve problems, no matter how big or small they may seem.
3. Customer Service Skills
Zookeepers who wish to be professional in their work must have customer service skills. It is important to be able to interact with zoo visitors and keep them happy.
This means being able to handle any questions or concerns that may arise.
Zookeepers should also be able to keep records of their interactions with customers so that they can provide a detailed report for management.
4. Organization Skills
Zookeepers need to be able to manage their time effectively in order to keep the zoo running smoothly. They must be able to stay organized and keep track of all relevant information related to the zoo’s operations.
5. Veterinarian Skills
Zookeepers need to be able to properly diagnose and treat injuries sustained by the animals in their care.
They also need to have a strong knowledge of veterinary medicine in order to keep the animals healthy and prevent any diseases from spreading.
Conclusion
As a zookeeper, you will need to be well-educated and have a lot of experience working with animals in order to be successful.
This article discusses some of the education requirements and work experience that you may need to have in order to become a successful zookeeper.
With this wholesome information you have chances of landing a successful career in this fascinating field.
