How To Become A Zookeeper - Pt 2

[@KelpLorax]

Not only is this entertainment but super helpful, I plan on becoming a Zookeeper even if it's 20 Years from now.

[@babybearcubbs]

Same, I'm 14 now and I can't even *intern* for a job till I'm 16 so I have to wait but, that gives me 2 years to research what I need to do

[@KelpLorax]

@@babybearcubbs I suggest volunteering as much as you can with animals, I'm 18 now, but, I've been volunteering for years and it has so far helped me a lot with gaining experience people will notice for future jobs as well as trained me a bit. (Also, even with covid, some people are still looking for volunteers.)

[@bumblebasketoffun3286]

Me too! I’ve always wanted to be around animals, and taking care of them sounds wonderful, good luck to you!

[@KelpLorax]

^ Alright you two, that was a nice bit. I'll admit. But, why here of all the videos? lol.

[@runeofnoweyr]

These two videos helped. I kinda... Stumbled into wanting to be a Keeper. Long story short, working retail has been killing me inside, and even though I thought doing a second job at the local zoo would exhaust me, it's done wonders for my mental health. So, I'm gonna go for it. While I'm building hours doing the seasonal job, I'll start doing online classes to tack on to my theatre degree in the off-season. It's given me hope for my life again. Even with the chances I have, especially given the way the pandemic has affected things... I'm gonna go for it. And I'll keep going for it. This gives me a better sense of direction. Thank you again for making these videos.

[@RickSchwartz]

Wow Jesse - That is awesome!!! So happy to hear you are finding your path, and direction on it as well!

[@hayleymarie2088]

Thanks Rick for the realistic advice! It is good to be aware of what some of the difficulties may be and it will be less disheartening if this happens! Thank you for giving us the tips that will prepare us and also help us to find ways around those difficulties!

[@RickSchwartz]

You are very welcome! I hear from many people that they have a degree and experience but can't get hired. Then I ask how many times they have applied and they tell me once. So I want to make sure everyone has a realistic view of how it can be a process to get that first interview.

[@hayleymarie2088]

@@RickSchwartz well I for one will definitely be professional and active when it comes to finding a job! Maybe even a Zoo out of state? Moving could be fun! 😁

[@roseanna33marie]

You’re such a great presenter! Bravo.

[@RickSchwartz]

Thanks Rose, I appreciate that!

[@juicyblue4625]

Can I be a zookeeper, but also be a zoologist? Sorry 20 years old and trying to figure my stuff out

[@RickSchwartz]

No need to say you're sorry - We need to ask questions to learn. Yes, you can be a zoologist and a zookeeper at the same time. Many people work as keepers of species that are critically endangered and spend some of their time doing field research as well.

[@juicyblue4625]

@@RickSchwartz thank you!

[@hannahkringle5341]

Hello, Thank you so much for all the information! I was wondering how many hrs a day does a keeper work and how many days a week? I have heard that some people work 6 days a week for 12+ hrs a day. Are keepers able to have a life outside of the zoo? I know that the people in the field are highly dedicated and have given their lives to the betterment of animals and public education to promote a better understanding of animal life and I have a great appreciation for that. I personally feel my heart being pulled in the direction of scientific research diving for coral/ocean conservation and was wondering if any Zoos sponsor conservation outside of their facilities or hire conservation workers for zoo education roles? Thank you and I really do greatly appreciate the information you have already provided in your videos!

[@RickSchwartz]

Hi Hannah - Yes, it is fair to say that being a professional in animal care is a way of life and not just a job. The amount of days you work and hours per day usually depend on the facility you are working for. As for the second part of your question, yes most accredited zoos have conservation and conservation scientists that work for them. There are also education departments that can work with the conservation department - It just depends on how the zoo is managed. Also, given your interest in coral/ocean conservation, there are a lot of accredited aquariums across the nation that do a lot of ocean research, conservation and education.

[@viperafangs]

*clicks on video, sees cereal' SUBSCRIBED.*

[@RickSchwartz]

Well then... I am glad that the cereal made the final cut! 😆

[@aaronchristensen5298]

That much I like anmail s better than people

[@alanimals-1125]

2:30 even more so if you’re a minority

[@aaronchristensen5298]

Great then I have to deal with people at the in college

[@monicarodriguez1504]

Thank you so much for all your information! Very helpful and I feel relieved to be on the right path!

[@RickSchwartz]

You are very welcome Monica - I am glad to hear the information is useful!

[@chad5896]

wrong

[@harpercrow7620]

I'm under 10 and I want to become a zookeeper some day. Is there anything I can do right now to help me become a better zookeeper later.

[@RickSchwartz]

I love that you are already looking at what you can do now to prepare for your future! Being under 10, tell the adults in your life what you are interested in for a future career. Read and study as much as you can about the animals you are interested in. Then read up and study about animals you may not no much or anything about, because that will help expand your knowledge too. As you go through your schooling, study as much biology and behavior/psychology as you can. Hope this helps!

[@rachelascott3130]

Hey, Rick! Great video! This is my second time watching, and just noticed the T-shirt! Hilarious!

[@RickSchwartz]

Hahaha! Thanks Rachel - Its my favorite shirt to adventure & travel in. For obvious reasons :0)

[@haleyjade9063]

i just recently decided to go into this field, being able to make sure animals in zoos are taken care of is very important & something i’m soooo interested in considering my love for animals runs extremely deep. i’m a junior in highschool & i’m having anxiety that i won’t get accepted into a college that provides this information - but i know i could have some experience considering i live close by the atl zoo & a little safari that houses a small variety of animals ( it’s kind of like a mini feeding zoo ) i get really anxious about spending years of my life on this career & i get scared i won’t ever get a job! i don’t want to be stuck working at a place i hate for money i need and no time on my hands to do anything i love. i don’t know anybody with a career like this, so it’s making me really stressed!

[@RickSchwartz]

Hi Haley, I am not sure what to say other than the reality of getting a job as a zookeeper is a lot of people want to do it so it is considered a competitive field. And the truth is, zookeeper's don't get paid much. I often say it is a work of passion, not a work of pay. If you are not sure that you would like this line of work, I would encourage you to visit the zoo(s) or animal parks in your area and talk to the staff their about their experiences in animal care as a career. Through those discussions you might better be able to decide if this line of work would be a good fit for you.

[@_mae.exe_2591]

How long did It take you to actually be accepted to become a zookeeper? In the meantime, what did you do? If this was already mentioned in the video, you can just emphasize if you want :)

[@RickSchwartz]

It took me 6 applications to even get an interview at the San Diego Zoo, and even then I did not get the job. It was application 7 that finally resulted in a part-time keeper job for me. In my 27 years of working in animal care, there have been times between jobs that I have worked as a waiter, real estate agent assistant, and an assistant manager in retail - Because you gotta pay the bills!

[@egypthobby]

There is always field research

[@RickSchwartz]

YEs, that is always an option for those that are interested!

[@BRIANP87]

Hi Rick, my Uncle got me an opportunity to shadow a zookeeper for a day as a chance to see if it was i really want to do. I will be shadowing the head Hoofstock keeper. I've been writing down questions i feel i should ask about the job. What questions do you think i should ask? What should i really focus(i know i should focus on everything). But if you could give me any tips and advise before i do this shadowing(Which is Oct. 10th) i would really appreciate it. Thank you! P.S. Love the videos, and i hate when people tell me "you know you're not going to be petting the animals and cuddling with them all day" because i know that, i've known that since i was 10 lol.

[@RickSchwartz]

I think the most important thing is to ask about the best days on the job and the worst. What are the biggest assets and challenges to having this as a full-time career. Ask how they got to where they are. What education was needed and what kind of experience. Keep your eyes and ears open and have fun!

[@BRIANP87]

Thank you very much for the response and i will definitely do those things. I'm very excited, anxious,, as well as nervous. Can't wait and thank you again.

[@BRIANP87]

Hi Rick, How are you? I had my zookeeper shadowing yesterday(Oct. 10) and i would just like to say that it was one of the best experiences of my life(right after my daughter being born and meeting my fiance' of course lol). Grant it i was cleaning up poop all day but i still got to be around some of the animals and some actually come right up to the zookeepers(mainly the ones who were hand raised) I had most of my questions answered and i definitely want to move forward with this. Grant it its going to take some time before i get there but i am definitely motivated, passionate, and ready.

[@RickSchwartz]

Sounds like you had a great experience!

[@BRIANP87]

I did. Now i just need to figure out where i go from here.

[@oneshowoneservant]

🔥landed🔥

[@Celebrityplusone]

I do have a question about salary once you do grab a job. I understand it's not much, however is there a good resource to see some actual numbers one makes? I just want to know that I would be able to take care of myself (in the state of California) after the schooling, the time, the money you spend on schooling, and in the end can you support yourself? Let me explain again that I'm not in it for the money itself, I just want to know that my career as a keeper is going to be sustainable. I see a lot of different numbers thrown around, maybe it just depends on where you work? I hope this makes sense,just looking for more solid honest answers into this amazing world! thanks again!

[@RickSchwartz]

Hi DeAnn - The low pay is challenging. And unfortunately there is not a standard rate of pay across the board that I can point you to. It varies, city to city and facility to facility. Your best bet to find out exact pay rates would be to contact the HR departments of the zoos you are hoping to work for. I can tell you some pay minimum wage for a starting position and some pay a little above minimum wage for a starting position. During the first few years of their career, most keepers have roommates and/or a side job to help off-set the low pay.

[@Celebrityplusone]

@@RickSchwartz that's hard to hear your think with a degree you'd get paid more, regardless I don't see another choice for myself. Just hurts to read that you can have a Bachelor's Degree and get paid the same as someone who doesn't working at a grocery store for $13 an hour :(

[@janeknox3036]

I talk with the keepers on quiet days and almost all of them move to jobs around the country. I always just assumed you'd start at some small town zoo or park and work your way up. Thing is : bigger really isn't better. Some smaller zoos have cooler animals that the bigger ones don't have.

[@RickSchwartz]

Yes, that is true - Bigger zoos are not always better. It really comes down to what you as an individual want to do in your career and where you want to live. Every zoo is different and has has different culture too (as is true with all businesses). What matters is each person is being honest with themself and what they want out of their career.

[@jovannymartinez5359]

I hear alot that keepers are not paid a whole lot is this true ? If so what are some ways to increase income or do you have to move up within the zoo ?

[@RickSchwartz]

Yes, In general Zookeeper and Animal Care Specialist have low pay, especially for a job that usually requires a minimum of a 4 year degree. Most of us have roommates and/or second jobs to help deal with the lower income.

[@damionkennedy344]

I want learn to you

[@yogeshwarandorai2645]

Am 30 years old can I become zoo keeper

[@RickSchwartz]

Age is not a factor in being able to work as a zookeeper. Many people change career paths in their 30's.

[@rebelrider7694]

Hello, Mr. Schwartz! I would truly appreciate some of your professional advice. First off, thank you for posting these videos (part 1 and 2). Definitely some valued insight, it was nice to see a video where someone was engaging more with the viewer rather than just shadowing someone around (which is helpful, but you also included info about how to get the job). I love animals very much, always have. I cannot decide what I want to do for a job, and one of the occupations I’m considering would be specializing in mammals as a zoologist that would probably work at a zoo and, maybe, do some conservation work in the field. The issue is, I can’t decide what I want to do for a career. You mentioned in part 1 that a zoo-keeping job doesn’t pay anything extraordinary. Which, normally, I wouldn’t have a single care about that at all! I would much rather do something I love and go on less vacations or none at all rather than have a job that isn’t fulfilling. However, I own a horse who is my very best friend in the world. I never want to have to lose him because I can’t afford him, and I want to give him his best life. I also have a cat who I love, who I have committed to keeping as mine, and who I will also be financially responsible for when I start out on my own. I never want to worry about their vet bills or if they’ll have enough food and also be able to take reasonable care of myself. However, if I work a super demanding job where I am financially well off, but I never get any time with them (especially my horse), then that sort of defeats the purpose. I don’t know what to do, because if I choose something like being a zoologist/zoo-keeper, I need to start preparing now. I’m not super keen on anything veterinary-related, I just don’t know if I could put an animal down myself, but I’m open to options. Do you have any advice, or suggestions of animal related careers that I could pursue, where I could take good care of my animals (I would love to own a large dog too in the future, if possible) and not worry (as much) about my responsibility to them? Thank you for your time! God bless!

[@RickSchwartz]

I appreciate your concerns and thinking ahead on how to live your best life. All I can offer you is this, in general working with animals as a profession doesn't pay a lot. I know keepers and animal care specialists that are very frugal with their money and plan accordingly. This allows them to have a horse, or use vacation time to travel to Africa or other parts of the world. But it takes thoughtful planning and a lifestyle that some people do not want. I hope you find the path that gives you balance in how you want to live your life.

[@vegetalover1009]

I of course want to work at the Columbus zoo lol

[@gabrielsmedleysanimaltime5826]

In other words, apply like a madman until you get the job!

[@RickSchwartz]

Well, maybe not a mad man... But frequently and often!

[@mr_cappytop6807]

Thank so much for uploading this two part videos and I want to be a zookeeper when I grow up I want to take care of animals.

[@RickSchwartz]

You are very welcome, I hope you found it helpful!

[@hisshersexotics8303]

I want a degree in zoology. I have 25 years experience with horses. I own zebra and exotic snakes (Reticulated python), along with a menagerie of farm animals. I have a steady career but would love to work with more exotics and teaching people about them and proper husbandry.

[@yellowdemon2746]

I live in New Zealand. If I get my degree here can I use that in other countries or is each degree country specific?

[@RickSchwartz]

Hey there, Sorry to say I do not know what degrees are recognized by other countries. It would be reasonable to reach out to the facilities in the other countries you are looking at to see if they would accept your degree from your home country.

[@alyx_jean]

Found this video a few years later. Currently studying a communications bachelor's, my family doesn't have enough money to put me through another degree (plus I love in a foreign country so changing degrees is really difficult). Been working at the animal shelter in my spare time, and it is the most emotionally rewarding thing I've done in a long time. Definitely going to use up my elective classes and put them towards this. I feel in my heart this is the right thing to do for me. From here on out it's dedication.

[@bellavanorsouw4993]

Hi, I’m currently 12 years old! A bit to young to be searching for jobs 😂! But I have my heart set on working with animals. I would like to know what I can do to boost my chances. I have 3 zoos I can travel to in my area to volunteer when I get older. I also am thinking of doing a zoo keeper for the day program at Melbourne Zoo in Australia, but because of coronavirus it’s cancelled ☹️ So yeah! What can I do as I start to get older?

[@RickSchwartz]

Hi Isabella - You are never to young to think about pursuing your passion! I am not sure of the requirements of zoos in Australia, but volunteering at a zoo or two when you are old enough will only help, not hurt your future plans. Yes Coronavirus has cancelled a lot of things and changed how we can do things, like volunteering etc. But I do not think it will be like this forever and you have time. Here in the US most zoos require a 4 year degree in something related to animals like biology, zoology, animal behavior etc. So it is also a good time to start looking at what colleges/universities might offer degrees like those if that is something Australian Zoos require as well.

[@bellavanorsouw4993]

Rick Schwartz Thanks so much!! I’m looking at courses such as a 3 year Animal Science course or a TAFE course. Here in Melbourne, Melbourne Zoo offers volunteering to people over the age of 18 but i would still like to call around and see when can i volunteer.

[@RickSchwartz]

@@bellavanorsouw4993 You are very welcome! Ands yes, Always reach out to the local zoos to gain more information about volunteering opportunities!

[@bellavanorsouw4993]

Rick Schwartz Thanksssss!!!! I’m having troubles finding places to volunteer at my age!! :(

[@skynotfound8403]

Isabella Van Orsouw same omg 12 and I already want to be a zoo keeper

[@robinmarsh3076]

Do you have any ideas about getting experience a 12 year old? I know it seems young but i've wanted to be a keeper for a few years now and I think I should start getting experience sooner rather than later.

[@RickSchwartz]

Hey, I totally get it. When I was 12 one of the most frustrating things was being told I was "to young" to work/volunteer. It can be tough, especially with labor laws and other rules in place that make it hard for a facility to help someone your age gain experience. The best thing I can suggest is to start making calls to your local wildlife rehabilitation center, zoo, vet hospital(s) and tell them what your goals in life and and how you'd like to volunteer to start gaining experience. If they tell you you are too young, don't be discouraged. Find out what the minimum age is and do everything you can to be ready to jump in as soon as you turn that age.

[@robinmarsh3076]

Thanks

[@RickSchwartz]

You are very welcome!

[@shejalbhave9647]

thank you for giving a great news I just wanted to tell you sir , I want to become a zookeeper . i have completed degree in zoology but , i donot have any experience so what can i do sir ?

[@deekuuchiha3432]

I have one question what college do I have to go to thinks for help in part1

[@RickSchwartz]

The college itself doesn't really matter unless you are looking for an experience like Moorpark College (mentioned in Part 1). What matters is your degree is relatable to animal sciences, such as biology, zoology, animal behavior, or ecology.

[@deekuuchiha3432]

@@RickSchwartz ok thinks for the help

[@bigbuck4829]

Would a Batchelor degree in wildlife conservation be beneficial to get into the zookeeper career?

[@Drikissima91]

Thank you for the video

[@RickSchwartz]

You are very welcome!

[@Fan_OfFandoms]

i am in elemartry and i am watching this and plannig ahead.

[@RickSchwartz]

Always good to plan ahead!

[@Fan_OfFandoms]

@@RickSchwartz thx

[@Fan_OfFandoms]

@@RickSchwartz and i subbed

[@saraglenton8687]

Nice

[@RickSchwartz]

Thanks!

[@kompaninhoo8698]

I’m Really Stuck About Like Experience It’s Very Hard To Find Any So Any Advise?

[@RickSchwartz]

Yes, it can be challenging to get experience. The only thing I can really suggest is keep looking for places that take care of animals and see if you can help out in any way.

[@yogeshwarandorai2645]

How to become zoo keeper can someone guide me Pls ????

[@RickSchwartz]

Assuming you have watched the video and looked through the links in the description of the video... Do you have a specific question?

[@yogeshwarandorai2645]

@@RickSchwartz yes where to start and how to start ??? Is Der direct way to become zoo keeper ? Please guide me !!! Am very much passionate about becoming one !

[@yogeshwarandorai2645]

@@RickSchwartz please reply and guide me

[@RickSchwartz]

@@yogeshwarandorai2645 Education- While you’re in school, learn as much as you can in your science classes. In college, choose a degree program in animal-related fields like biology, zoology, botany, ecology, conservation science, or animal behavior. Take as many different courses in those areas as you can, and graduate with a bachelor’s degree in your chosen field. (Here’s a BIG hint: the competition for jobs caring for animals is so strong that you really HAVE to have a college degree these days to be considered.) Additionally, Hands on experience is needed too. Most people do this by volunteering. Some places to look for volunteer jobs or internships might be: Veterinary offices Animal training classes (does your dog need obedience training?) Local Humane Society Local Park Service Wildlife rehabilitation centers (like those for wolves, bears, big cats, birds of prey, and even bats) Animal shelters Farms (for domestic animals, or even ostrich, llama, or butterfly farms) Pet breeders (those that breed specific kinds of dogs, cats, or horses) Horse stables and boarding facilities 4-H Clubs

[@yogeshwarandorai2645]

@@RickSchwartz thank u Rick ! But now where can I go and study ??? Can you please guide me the best place to study and to become successful zoo keeper ???

[@gloriapanneerselvam7453]

Is there any zoo in the world to reply our application shortly in respect to animal keeper job.

[@RickSchwartz]

Hi Gloria, I am not sure I understand your question. Can you restate it in another way?

[@CAphotos]

Something that Rick didn't mention in either video is taking a job at a zoo in a department other than animal care to get your "foot in the door," especially if the zoo has a job loan program like the San Diego Zoo. This is where employees in other departments can apply for a temporary loan to an animal care (or other) department to get an idea of how that department works and gain experience in that department. Non-animal care jobs could include guest services, retail (gift shop,) grounds, horticulture, food service, etc. These are good jobs for students working on that biological science degree.

[@chad5896]

wow imagine coming on here like that wirh that kind or attitude is crazy. go home im not even going to read your comment it just looks long and complainy no one is here to read what uou wtite

[@JangoFettFan9563]

Hi Rick, My real name is Aidan, I’m 15 years old and I am a volunteer at Potawatomi Zoo as a Junior Educator. I teach people about the animals, walk through the zoo, and supposed to assist with camps and classes, but I can’t due to COVID-19. I can do animal related volunteering until I’m 18, and cannot go behind the scenes without an Employee. I’m now a Freshman and I will do my best, because I love to teach people about wildlife!

[@RickSchwartz]

Hi Aidan - It sounds like you are on the right track! Yes, COVID-19 has changed a lot of what we can and cannot do. Keep in mind it is temporary, and eventually (hopefully soon) you will be able to continue to pursue. your passion!

[@JangoFettFan9563]

@@RickSchwartz after college, I want to work at San Diego Zoo.

[@chad5896]

hi rick. my real name is Imma cucumber. covid was like 3 years ago fr. invalid excuse get yourself together i never got hand outs when i was a kid.

[@spartanboss5432]

I saw on this one study that zoology degrees were the 2nd best with a median salary of a little over 100k. Is this true or what

[@RickSchwartz]

I can honestly say I know of no zookeeper in the US that makes any where near 100k. I am very curious to learn more about this study and what their sources were.

[@spartanboss5432]

Rick Schwartz it didn’t say a zookeeper specifically, just zoology degree. www.google.com/amp/s/amp.businessinsider.com/most-valuable-college-majors-2018-9 that is one website it is listed on, I’ve seen the same study on other websites too.

[@CAphotos]

I like your shirt...

[@chad5896]

👶🏿