Zookeeper , Hoofed Stock

6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, USA

Posted Friday, December 26, 2025 at 7:00 AM

The Houston Zoo is seeking an enthusiastic professional to join the Hoofed Stock Team. This section includes Okapi, Capybara, Giant Anteaters, Cranes, Ostrich, Ground Hornbills, Zebra, Swans, Greater Rhea, Southern Screamers, and Baird’s Tapirs. A successful candidate for this position is motivated, energetic, and a team oriented individual. This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking.

Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.

Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.

• Observesandevaluatesanimalcondition,behaviorandresponsesandcommunicatesobservationsorallyandonwrittenreports.
• Preparesandfeedsappropriatediets,notingconformanceoffoodsprovidedtodietsprescribedforeachanimal.
• Administersprescribedmedicationsanddietarysupplementsandmonitorsfoodandmedicineconsumption.
• Checksonintegrityofenclosuresandstructures,ensuringsafetyandwelfareofanimals,Zoo visitors,andstaffinaccordancewithestablishedguidelines.
• Maintainsliveplantswithinenclosuresensuringneat,attractive exhibits.
• Performsminorrepairsandpreventativemaintenanceasnecessary.
• Trainsselectedanimalsthroughoperantconditioningforpurposesofgainingcooperationforveterinarytreatmentand/orpublicdemonstrations.
• Installsexhibitfurnishings,props,anddecorationssafely,attractivelyandinamannerconsistentwith
  
  Zoo guidelines.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Being vaccinated against Covid-19 is a requirement for this position.

• One year of experience in animal care in a zoo setting or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian is required, which may be gained through internships, volunteer experience, or employment.
• Extensive domestic animal experience may qualify for substitution for exotic animal management experience.
• Specific training and work experience in other settings, such as aquaculture, schools, nature centers, agricultural operations, or conservation centers may be considered on a case-by-case basis as fulfillment for the experience requirements.

The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests.

We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Join an enthusiastic team that provides a fun, unique and inspirational experience fostering appreciation, knowledge, and care for the natural world. The Houston Zoo aspires to be recognized by peers, staff, and general public as a leader among conservation efforts, delivering excellence in animal care, entertainment, education, and guest service.

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. It is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.

Employees will be required to follow any other job‑related instructions and to perform other job‑related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.

Full‑time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.

• Medical and Prescription Drug
• Vision
• Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
• Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
• Supplemental Life
• Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
• 401k, with employer match

Full‑time and Part‑Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.

• Free Zoo Membership
• Free Guest Passes
• Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
• Free parking

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.