This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
Explore all careersA Zoo Keeper cares for animals, maintains enclosures, provides enrichment, conducts presentations, and ensures welfare in zoos or sanctuaries.
Get qualified to work as a Zoo Keeper with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
If you’re planning a career as a Zoo Keeper, consider enrolling in a course such as a Certificate III in Captive Animals. This qualification explores topics like caring for animals, rehabilitating native wildlife and providing educational information to the public.
In Australia, a full time Zoo Keeper generally earns $1,200 per week ($62,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
This industry has seen an increase in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 1,200 people employed as a Zoo Keeper in Australia compared to 1,000 five years ago. Zoo Keepers may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly in larger towns and cities where zoos and animal sanctuaries are found.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
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Embarking on a rewarding career as a Zoo Keeper begins with finding the right qualification. In Canberra, there are two prominent Zoo Keeper courses tailored for beginners. The Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care (ACM30321) and the Certificate II in Animal Care (ACM20121) are ideal for students looking to gain essential skills in animal handling and care. These courses are designed to provide hands-on experience, enabling you to care effectively for a variety of species found in zoos and wildlife reserves.
In Canberra, the esteemed Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is among the registered training organisations delivering these valuable Zoo Keeper courses. By enrolling with CIT, you not only receive top-notch training from qualified instructors but also access pathways into related fields of study, including Animal Welfare and Veterinary courses and Animal Care. This foundation can open doors to various career opportunities within the animal care industry.
Upon completion of your course, a variety of job roles await you in the field of animal care and management. Graduates can explore career paths such as a Pet Groomer, Animal Attendant, or even a Wildlife Carer. For those interested in further specialisation, roles like Zoologist and Ecologist may also pique your interest, offering specialist knowledge in wildlife conservation and management.
Choosing to study Zoo Keeper courses in Canberra is not only a step toward a fulfilling career but also a contribution to the wellbeing of our animal friends. With committed trainers at CIT and a clear pathway to various job roles in animal care, your journey to becoming a skilled Zoo Keeper can start today. Explore the available options and take the first step towards making a meaningful impact in the world of wildlife and animal care!