Animal Encounters Associate

Wildlife Conservation Society; New York (NY); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

The Wildlife Conservation Society's Bronx Zoo is seeking seasonal staff to join the Animal Encounters team for the 2026 season. Associates will assist animal care staff, support exhibit maintenance, and help deliver engaging experiences for guests.

Candidates with animal care experience and strong teamwork will thrive; the role requires weekend work, ability to stand long hours, and flexibility with weather conditions.

Qualifications

• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to maneuver 50 pounds.
• Comfortable being exposed to cold and hot weather conditions.
• Good verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work well within a team.
• Salary Range - $17.00
• Salary Range $17/hour

Responsibilities

• Monitor guests, convey rules, and provide educational information regarding the collection.
• Daily exhibit preparation including raking, shoveling, cleaning windows and signage, scrubbing boardwalk, and more.
• Husbandry for various animals including habitat cleaning, grooming, feeding, and enrichment.
• Basic observation of animals for health/behavior changes.
• Other duties and projects as assigned.

Skills

Stand long hours

Lift 50 lbs

Weather exposure

Verbal communication

Teamwork

Job description

Job Description

Job Family: Animal Programs
Location: Bronx Zoo
Job Type: Temporary/Seasonal
Department: Animal Encounters
Status: Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: Starting at $17.00 depending on experience
Schedule: Must be able to work 3-5 days per week including weekends and holidays. Schedule may vary dependent on weather, guest attendance, and departmental need.

The Animal Encounters department is seeking dedicated individuals to work alongside Bronx Zoo animal care staff for the 2026 season. Associates will work in a team setting to care for the collection of animals, maintain off-exhibit and public areas, while providing meaningful and safe experiences for zoo guests. Ideal candidates will have prior experience of caring for animals, the ability to collaborate well with others, and an interest in delivering an unforgettable visitor experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Responsible for monitoring guests, conveying rules, and providing educational information regarding the collection
• Daily exhibit preparation including raking, shoveling, cleaning windows and signage, scrubbing boardwalk, and more
• Husbandry for various animals including habitat cleaning, grooming, feeding, and enrichment
• Basic observation of animals for health/behavior changes
• Other duties and projects as assigned

Qualification Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to maneuver 50 pounds
• Comfortable being exposed to cold and hot weather conditions
• Good verbal communication skills
• Ability to work well within a team
• Salary Range - $17.00
• Salary Range $17/hour