Zookeeper Resume Example and Template
A strong zookeeper resume highlights expertise with specific animal taxa, enrichment program implementation, and behavioral training. Show your knowledge of species-specific care, diet management, and how you contribute to conservation missions.
Zoo directors look for caregivers who work as team members, observe animals closely for health changes, and actively contribute to enrichment and education goals. They want to see passion backed by consistent, methodical work.
A complete, realistic Zookeeper resume, laid out in an ATS-tested template. The candidate is illustrative: the name, employers and figures were written for this example and identify no real person, so you can copy its structure and wording freely.
Updated September 2026
Also searched as
Senior Zookeeper, Zookeeper Apprentice
Amelia Torres: Zookeeper
San Diego, California, United States
Summary
Dedicated zookeeper with 5 years of experience caring for primate and feline collections in accredited facilities. Skilled in behavioral training, enrichment design, and animal health monitoring. Spearheaded enrichment program expansion that increased public engagement by 45% while improving animal welfare metrics across 2 exhibits.
Work Experience
Senior Zookeeper, West Coast Wildlife Park
Jul 2022 – Present. AZA-accredited zoo, 500+ animals, 120 acres
- Managed daily care for 28 primates across 4 exhibits; maintained behavioral and medical records
- Designed and implemented enrichment activities including puzzle feeders and structural modifications
- Trained 3 junior keepers and supervised keeper interns during summer rotations
- Collaborated with veterinary team during 6 animal health interventions and recovery periods
Zookeeper, Riverside Zoo
Jan 2020 – Jun 2022. AZA-accredited, 2,000 animals, urban location
- Provided daily husbandry for felid collection of 12 animals across 3 habitat systems
- Conducted behavioral observations logged in database; identified stress responses early
- Maintained habitat sanitation and safety protocols; zero keeper or animal injuries
- Led keeper talks 3 times daily to crowds averaging 50 to 80 visitors per session
Zookeeper Apprentice, San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Mar 2019 – Dec 2019. Largest AZA zoo in US, 3,500+ animals
- Rotated through 5 different keeper areas learning diverse species care protocols
- Assisted with giraffe and antelope management; participated in medical procedures
- Completed zoo-level training in animal restraint, medication prep, and emergency response
- Shadowed senior keepers and attended weekly keeper development seminars
Education
San Diego State University
B.S., Biology. Aug 2015 – May 2019
Skills
Primate care and behavior, Felid husbandry, Behavioral training, Enrichment design and implementation, Health observation and documentation, Animal medical assistance, Public education and interpretation, Habitat maintenance, Record keeping, Team collaboration
Languages
English, Spanish
Certificates and Awards
- AZAK Zoo Keeper Foundations, Association of Zoo and Aquarium Personnel, 2020
- First Aid and CPR for Animals, Red Cross, 2024
Why this look works
Zookeeping combines scientific rigor with genuine animal care. Professional, clean layouts that show organization and attention to detail resonate with accredited zoo hiring teams. The design should convey both your technical competence and your passion for conservation.
Resume tips for this job
- Name the specific animals and taxa you've worked with. 'Primates' is vague; 'spider monkeys, howler monkeys, capuchins' shows real expertise.
- Include any enrichment programs you've designed or implemented. Zoos now value keepers who contribute to behavioral and welfare improvements, not just daily cleaning.
- Show your training and certifications, especially AZA keeper credentials. These signal you take the profession seriously.
Common questions
Do I need a biology degree to be a zookeeper?
A degree helps with hiring and advancement, but many zoos hire from apprenticeships or keeper training programs. If you don't have a degree, get certified through AZAK and start as an apprentice to build experience and credentials.
Should I include volunteer zoo experience?
Yes, especially if it's your only experience. Zoos understand that you start somewhere, and consistent volunteer work of 6+ months shows genuine commitment. Put it in a volunteer section with dates and animal groups.