Looking for a rewarding career surrounded by wildlife? Australian zoos are hiring! These roles offer salaries ranging from AUD 38000 to AUD 89000 per year, with 2–3 years of experience often preferred.
Most positions are physical, hands-on jobs, giving you the chance to work directly with animals every day. Whether you’re an international applicant seeking visa sponsorship or a local wildlife enthusiast, these opportunities let you turn your passion into a meaningful career.
Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Country | Australia |
| Job | Zoo Jobs |
| Minimum Education | High School Diploma |
| Experience | 2–3 Years (varies by role) |
| Visa Sponsorship | Yes |
Top Zoo Jobs:
Here are some key positions you can explore, along with their average annual salary and responsibilities:
Instruction officer
- Average Salary: AUD 49,000 per year
- Role: Conduct educational programs for school groups and visitors, develop informative materials, and support conservation awareness.
- Requirements: Degree in biology or science preferred; teaching experience is a plus.
Zookeeper
- Average Salary: AUD 38,000 per year
- Role: Care for animals daily—feeding, cleaning, exercising, and monitoring their health. May specialize in certain species like primates or reptiles.
- Requirements: Bachelor’s in zookeeping, science, or animal management; traineeships or certifications helpful.
Volunteer administration coordinator
- Average Salary: AUD 46,000 per year
- Role: Manage volunteer programs, schedule activities, monitor volunteer performance, and recruit new volunteers.
- Requirements: Experience in volunteer management or relevant qualifications (Level 3 in volunteer management is beneficial).
Gardener
- Average Salary: AUD 44,000 per year
- Role: Maintain gardens and plants within enclosures and around the zoo; grow plants for animals’ diets when required.
- Requirements: Level 2 Horticulture qualification or equivalent; knowledge of plant cultivation is helpful.
Zoo showcasing supervisor
- Average Salary: AUD 72,000 per year
- Role: Promote the zoo to increase visitor numbers, run marketing campaigns, and raise awareness of conservation programs.
- Requirements: Degree in marketing and experience managing a team; additional marketing certifications a plus.
Biologist
- Average Salary: AUD 65,000 per year
- Role: Study animal behavior, ecology, and welfare; assist in breeding programs and habitat design; guide conservation projects.
- Requirements: BSc in Zoology, Biology, or Animal Science; MSc or PhD may be required for advanced research roles.
Presenter
- Average Salary: AUD 50,000 per year
- Role: Deliver live presentations, lead guided tours, and educate visitors about animals and conservation.
- Requirements: Experience with public speaking, teaching, or live demonstrations; passion for wildlife education.
Zoo veterinarian
- Average Salary: AUD 89,000 per year
- Role: Ensure animal health, diagnose illnesses, administer treatments, perform surgery, and oversee rehabilitation.
- Requirements: Veterinary degree (5 years), membership in the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons or equivalent.
Zoo ranger
- Average Salary: AUD 44,000 per year
- Role: Conduct animal presentations, guide behind-the-scenes tours, and support educational activities.
- Requirements: Degree in Zoology or related field; knowledge of animal behavior and conservation.
Curator
- Average Salary: AUD 57,000 per year
- Role: Manage animal collections, ensure welfare standards, oversee staff, and maintain habitats that replicate natural conditions.
- Requirements: Relevant degree, experience in management and animal care.
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Operations Manager
- Average Salary: AUD 77,000 per year
- Role: Oversee zoo operations, manage staff, budgets, compliance, and ensure safety and smooth running of the zoo.
- Requirements: Experience in management, budgeting, and team leadership.
Animal Trainer Jobs:
Animal trainer jobs involve teaching and conditioning animals for behavior, performance, or therapeutic purposes. Trainers work in zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, or research facilities, requiring patience, knowledge of animal behavior, and strong communication skills.
Aquarium Staff Jobs:
Aquarium staff positions include caring for aquatic animals, maintaining tanks, monitoring water quality, and assisting visitors. These roles ensure the health of marine life and enhance the educational experience for guests.
Exhibit and Habitat Management Jobs:
Exhibit and habitat management jobs focus on designing, maintaining, and monitoring enclosures for animals in zoos, aquariums, or wildlife parks. Staff ensure safe, stimulating, and naturalistic environments for animals while adhering to health and safety standards.
Wildlife Park Jobs:
Wildlife park jobs involve animal care, habitat maintenance, visitor engagement, and conservation activities. Professionals in these roles help protect endangered species and educate the public about wildlife and environmental preservation.
Animal Care Jobs:
Animal care positions cover feeding, grooming, monitoring health, and providing enrichment for animals in zoos, sanctuaries, shelters, or veterinary facilities. These roles require compassion, attention to detail, and knowledge of species-specific needs.
Benefits:
1. Competitive Salary & Superannuation
Zoo roles provide fair compensation along with superannuation contributions, helping you secure both immediate income and long-term financial stability.
2. Professional Development Opportunities
Many zoos offer on-the-job training, workshops, and mentoring programs to help staff gain skills in wildlife care, research, and conservation.
3. Visa Sponsorship for International Workers
Eligible international applicants can receive visa sponsorship, allowing you to live and work in Australia legally while building a meaningful career.
4. Career Growth & Advancement
Australian zoos have clear pathways from volunteer or entry-level roles to specialized positions like veterinarians, curators, or senior management.
5. Employee Benefits & Perks
Staff may enjoy discounts on park admission, merchandise, and events, as well as wellness initiatives such as fitness programs or mental health support.
6. Contribution to Conservation & Animal Welfare
Working at a zoo allows you to actively participate in conservation programs, habitat restoration, breeding initiatives, and animal welfare projects.
7. Supportive & Collaborative Environment
Zoos foster teamwork and collaboration, ensuring staff work closely on animal care, educational programs, and public engagement for a fulfilling experience.
8. Hands-On Experience with Wildlife
You’ll gain practical, daily experience working directly with animals, from feeding and health monitoring to enrichment activities and habitat maintenance.
9. Flexible Work Arrangements
Some Australian zoos provide flexible schedules, part-time roles, or seasonal work options, helping staff balance professional and personal commitments.
10. Exposure to Education & Public Engagement
Many roles involve interacting with visitors, leading tours, or delivering educational programs, giving you experience in teaching, communication, and public speaking.
How to Apply for Zoo Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship 2025?
To apply click the link below:
Conclusion:
Working in Australian zoos offers rewarding careers with competitive salaries, hands-on wildlife experience, and opportunities for professional growth. Many positions provide visa sponsorship for international applicants, making it easier to turn your passion for animals into a career. From entry-level roles to specialized positions, zoos combine conservation, education, and teamwork for a fulfilling work environment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is English proficiency required?
Yes, a basic level of English proficiency is typically required for communication and understanding job responsibilities. Proof of English language skills may be necessary for visa applications and job eligibility.
What is the salary range for zoo jobs in Australia?
Salaries vary based on the role, experience, and location. For example, wildlife keeper positions at Trowunna Wildlife Park offer hourly wages ranging from AUD 22.61 to AUD 28.57. With experience, annual salaries can range from AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000 for more senior roles.
Can international applicants apply for these jobs?
Yes, international candidates from regions such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America are eligible to apply for zoo jobs in Australia. Positions like zookeepers and veterinary support staff may be eligible for visa sponsorship under Australia’s Skilled Migration Program.
