The average annual salary for a zookeeper at the Denver Zoo is estimated to be around $36,525 per year, with a majority pay range between $35,386 and $40,304. The hourly pay for a zookeeper at the Denver Zoo is approximately $17.56 per hour, based on the average annual salary.
Salary Range and Hourly Pay
- Salary Range: The salary range for a zookeeper at the Denver Zoo is between $35,386 and $40,304 per year.
- Hourly Pay: The hourly pay for a zookeeper at the Denver Zoo is approximately $17.56 per hour.
National Comparison
In comparison to the national average, the salary for a zookeeper at the Denver Zoo is slightly lower. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a zookeeper in the United States is around $54,966 per year, with a range from $44,000 to $65,000. This indicates that the Denver Zoo zookeeper salary is lower than the national average but still competitive.
Benefits and Perks
Denver Zoo offers a range of benefits to its employees, including:
- Medical, vision, and dental coverage
- Flexible spending accounts
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
These benefits can help offset the slightly lower salary compared to the national average, making the overall compensation package more attractive for zookeepers at the Denver Zoo.
Job Responsibilities and Requirements
Zookeepers at the Denver Zoo are responsible for a variety of tasks, including:
- Feeding and caring for the animals
- Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures
- Monitoring the health and well-being of the animals
- Educating visitors about the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts
To become a zookeeper at the Denver Zoo, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as zoology, animal science, or biology. Additionally, prior experience working with animals, either in a zoo or other animal-related setting, is often required.
Career Advancement Opportunities
The Denver Zoo offers opportunities for career advancement for its zookeepers. Experienced zookeepers may be able to move into supervisory or management roles, such as lead zookeeper or animal curator. Additionally, some zookeepers may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as animal nutrition or veterinary care.
Factors Affecting Zookeeper Salaries at the Denver Zoo
Several factors can influence the salary of a zookeeper at the Denver Zoo, including:
- Education and experience level
- Specialized skills or certifications
- Cost of living in the Denver area
- Demand for zookeepers in the region
- Performance and tenure at the Denver Zoo
Conclusion
The Denver Zoo zookeeper salary is a crucial consideration for those interested in pursuing a career in this field. While the salary may be slightly lower than the national average, the comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career advancement make the Denver Zoo an attractive option for aspiring zookeepers. By understanding the salary range, job responsibilities, and career progression, prospective zookeepers can make an informed decision about their future in this rewarding and fulfilling profession.
References:
– Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Careers at Denver Zoo. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/careers/
– Glassdoor. (2024). Salary: Zookeeper in Denver, CO. Retrieved from https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/denver-zookeeper-salary-SRCH_IL.0,6_IM234_KO7,16.htm
– Zippia. (2024). Denver Zoo Salaries: How Much Does Denver Zoo Pay In 2024? Retrieved from https://www.zippia.com/denver-zoo-careers-724711/salary/
– Salary.com. (n.d.). Denver Zoo Salary for Zookeeper. Retrieved from https://www.salary.com/research/company/denver-zoo/zookeeper-salary?cjid=4172382