Temporary Rover Zookeeper Jobs at Virginia Zoo (Norfolk): Pay, Duties, Requirements & How to Apply

If you are passionate about wildlife conservation, animal care, and working in a dynamic outdoor environment, the Temporary Rover Zookeeper position at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk offers an exciting opportunity to make a real impact. This role supports the care of rare, endangered, and potentially dangerous animals while helping deliver an exceptional experience to nearly 500,000 zoo visitors each year.

This is an ideal position for individuals with zookeeping education and hands-on experience who are seeking part-time, temporary work in a professional zoo setting.

Job Overview: Temporary Rover Zookeeper

Employer: Virginia Zoological Park
Position: Temporary Rover Zookeeper
Job Type: Temporary, Part-Time
Hourly Pay: $20.32 per hour
Department: Americas / Zoo Farm Team
Maximum Hours: Up to 1,040 hours
Work Location:
Virginia Zoological Park
3500 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA 23504
Schedule: Flexible; weekends and holidays required
Driver’s License: Required

About Virginia Zoo

The Virginia Zoo is committed to saving and protecting the world’s wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and supporting conservation efforts locally and globally. As part of an AZA-accredited institution, the zoo upholds the highest standards of animal welfare, safety, and education.

Zookeepers play a critical role in maintaining these standards while providing meaningful learning experiences for the public.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

As a Temporary Rover Zookeeper, your essential duties include:

🐾 Animal Care & Welfare

Observe animals for signs of illness, injury, or behavioral changes
Feed animals according to nutritional and behavioral guidelines
Assist with animal handling, restraint, and capture when necessary

🧼 Habitat Maintenance

Clean, disinfect, and maintain:
- Animal exhibits
- Enclosures
- Food and water dishes
- Pools and surrounding areas

📋 Record Keeping & Supervision

Maintain daily animal care and behavior records
Document exhibit conditions and maintenance needs
Supervise interns when required

🎤 Education & Guest Engagement

Conduct animal demonstrations for zoo visitors
Develop and present educational talks
Communicate professionally with guests, staff, and volunteers

🛠️ Equipment & Physical Tasks

Use tools and operate small equipment
Lift heavy feed and manure receptacles
Walk long distances and work outdoors

Required Skills & Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

🎓 Education

Bachelor’s degree (4-year) from an accredited college OR
Associate’s degree in zookeeping or wildlife management from a specialized program

🐘 Experience

Minimum 3 months of experience at an AZA-accredited facility as:
- Zookeeper
- Paid zookeeper intern
- Similar animal care role

🚗 Licenses & Skills

Valid Driver’s License (required)
Experience with animal behavior and handling
Ability to operate restraint equipment:
- Ropes
- Squeeze cages
- Catch poles
- Nets and shift systems
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Comfortable working with potentially dangerous animals

Physical & Work Requirements

This role is physically demanding and requires the ability to:

Stand, bend, lift, stoop, push, and pull
Lift heavy materials regularly
Work outdoors in varying conditions
Maintain normal hearing and vision

Work Schedule

Flexible, rotating schedule
Weekends and holidays required
Part-time hours, not exceeding 1,040 total hours

This position is ideal for candidates seeking temporary wildlife jobs without a full-time commitment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Virginia Zoological Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes qualified applicants regardless of background. All hiring decisions are made in accordance with applicable laws and professional standards.

How to Apply for Temporary Rover Zookeeper Jobs

Interested candidates should apply through the official Virginia Zoo or City of Norfolk hiring system and submit all required documentation regarding education, experience, and licensure.

Early applications are encouraged due to limited seasonal openings.

🦁 Apply today and help protect wildlife while inspiring the next generation of conservationists.

For Apply Online:Click Here