If you love animals and would like to work at a zoo, but you don’t have a degree in animal science, there are several ways to get started. You can volunteer at an animal shelter, get a volunteer internship, or you can get a job as a zookeeper. The job requires little schooling and you can usually learn on the job with frequent, direct contact with animals.
Jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree
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If you want a career with a lot of animal interaction, you may be a good fit for a job at a zoo. However, it’s important to consider your professional goals before jumping into a zoo job. You’ll need to determine whether you want to be an animal keeper or work in the veterinary field.
Zoos and aquariums are often popular destinations for visitors. In addition, many zoos offer a variety of positions. Some positions require a bachelor’s degree. There are also jobs that require a master’s or PhD.
The salary for zoology professionals begins in the $63,270 to $78,090 range. This varies depending on a variety of factors, including the location of the zoo, the employer, and the position.
As a wildlife rehabilitator, you must have basic veterinary knowledge, including human capture techniques, fluid administration, and cleaning enclosures. Wildlife rehabilitators also need to understand the care and handling of juvenile and adult animals. You can earn professional certification from the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council.
In addition to working with animals, zoologists may also work in the laboratory or office. Some of these jobs are not particularly hands-on, but they can provide an interesting and rewarding experience.
Many people choose to work in zoos because of the opportunities they provide for conservation. They help to educate the public about wildlife and promote the conservation of species.
Conservation biologists focus on the preservation of the earth’s natural resources. These professionals are employed by federal and privately-funded organizations. Depending on their job, they may negotiate land-use contracts, oversee conservation activities, or conduct research.
In order to get a zoo science job, you’ll need to attend classes and participate in an internship. These experiences can last from a semester to a year, but are necessary to apply classroom learning to real-world situations.
Zoo Science majors come into the program with some volunteering experience in zoos and conservation settings. Their coursework centers on the care of animals and conservation. A variety of electives are available, allowing students to explore topics such as avian science, marine vertebrate zoology, and quantitative research.
Jobs requiring less schooling but frequent, direct contact with animals
If you want to work with animals but aren’t ready for a career in veterinary medicine, there are many other options. You can become a wildlife technician, a veterinary assistant, or a conservationist. The requirements vary by job, but you’ll generally need to have a bachelor’s degree in an animal-related field.
Zoos are a great way to learn about the needs of different species. Many of them rely on the help of volunteers. It can be a challenge to find a full-time position, though.
Most zoos have internal job postings. Occasionally, zoos advertise in local newspapers. Some zoos require an oral or written aptitude test. Depending on the zoo, you may also be required to pass a physical exam.
Several zoos offer volunteer opportunities. These may involve cleaning a zoo, feeding an animal, or providing interpretive services to the public. They may also provide internships. An internship is a great way to gain experience before committing to a full-time career.
A wildlife career can take you from working with animals in a zoo to managing educational programs or conserving a natural habitat. Some jobs involve outdoor work, such as construction, while others involve office or lab work. In any case, you’ll need to have good communication skills and a commitment to helping endangered species.
To work in a zoo, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in zoology or biology. You can also take online courses to learn more about the profession.
For a job with higher pay and greater responsibility, you’ll need a graduate or advanced degree. Zoologists can become a professor or specialize in a specific area of study. This could include studying primates, sex or wildlife ecology.
While you’re at it, look for an opportunity to collaborate with a scientist on a research project. This could result in an article being published in a scientific journal or a presentation at an event.
If you’re a student, check out your school’s career center. You can also learn about internships and other opportunities at the zoo. Once you’ve found a few that interest you, make a point of visiting the zoo in person.
Volunteer internships
Whether you are a college student, recent graduate, or professional, internships at zoos are a great way to gain practical experience. Some interns receive course credit for their work, while others get paid or even a permanent job. However, it is important to find out about the requirements for each job before you apply.
Depending on the internship, you may be required to complete a series of online courses. You’ll learn about a variety of topics, including conservation, animal welfare, and animal husbandry. If you have a particular interest in reptiles, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn about their life cycle, as well as their habitats.
The Lehigh Valley Zoo has an internship program that lasts for 12 weeks. Your duties will include research, facilitating educational programs, and creating materials for the zoo. In addition to assisting in these areas, you’ll have an opportunity to learn about zoo management.
Aside from completing your coursework, you’ll need to prove you can perform your tasks effectively. You’ll be working with people of all ages and abilities, and you’ll have to be comfortable communicating with them.
Among the most common responsibilities of an animal care intern are training, feeding, enrichment, and cleaning animals. However, there are also some more challenging activities, such as public speaking.
Animal care interns also have the opportunity to help out at events and special exhibits. For example, you might be invited to do a presentation on a certain species.
There are two kinds of internships at the Ambassador Animal area of the zoo: research and education. Research interns are involved in a range of activities, such as studying endangered species, learning about animal care, and researching new exhibits. Those interested in education will assist with educational programs and media appearances.
Applicants must be 18 or older. Candidates should have a degree in a related field, a strong work ethic, and good communication skills. They should be willing to perform their duties in all weather conditions.
Interns are not permitted to handle venomous animals. If you’re interested in an internship at the National Zoo, you’ll need to commit to animal welfare and a commitment to the conservation of species.
Get to know a zookeeper
If you’re interested in working in the zoo, you may want to get to know a zookeeper. This is a good way to learn more about the job, and may give you the opportunity to secure a position.
Many zookeepers start out as interns or volunteer workers. These positions are a great way to build your resume and get experience. You can also contact the zoo HR department to find out about available positions.
Zookeepers spend most of their time outdoors, cleaning, and providing care for animals. While you don’t have to have a college degree to work in this position, it’s important to have the right qualifications.
The most important piece of the puzzle is your experience. If you’ve never worked with animals before, you can begin volunteering at a local veterinary clinic or an animal shelter.
Veterinary hospitals and horse stables are other excellent places to get experience. You can work with both large and small domestic animals, and can also apply your skills to exotic creatures.
Veterinary hospital workers can be great candidates for zookeeping jobs. As a zookeeper, you’ll need to be able to handle difficult situations. And, you’ll need to be able maintain the health of the animals.
You’ll also need to know how to calculate weight for different animals. It’s also helpful to have certifications for aquatic animals. Oftentimes, zoos will hire applicants with experience and an associate’s degree.
You can also consider taking a course on animal welfare and safety. You can enroll in a community college or online course. Some zoos even offer apprenticeships.
Once you’ve built up your experience, you’ll need to start looking for a job. Getting a zookeeper job can be competitive, especially if you don’t have a degree.
To boost your odds of getting a zookeeper job, be sure to highlight your experiences on your resume. Be honest and responsible, and be willing to relocate if needed.
Lastly, make sure you have first aid training. A zoo needs to have a trained staff for emergency situations, and they’ll consider your credentials plus.
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