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Job Opportunity at the ABQ BioPark: 
Assistant Zookeeper II (Reptiles and Amphibians)
A close-up photo of a Panamanian golden frog crawling face-first down a wet, rocky cliff in its habitat

Job Opportunity at the ABQ BioPark: 
Assistant Zookeeper II (Reptiles and Amphibians)

The ABQ BioPark’s Reptile and Amphibian team is seeking an enthusiastic and hard-working team member to serve as an Assistant Zookeeper of Reptiles and Amphibians at the ABQ BioPark.

September 04, 2026

The successful candidate will help the Reptile and Amphibian team provide the highest level of care for the non-venomous reptiles and amphibians at the ABQ BioPark. A strong commitment to conservation and understanding of animal well-being is paramount. This position reports to the Supervisor of Reptiles and Amphibians and is part of the Reptile and Amphibian Department.

This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque, and is located at the ABQ BioPark. This full-time position is limited to a two year term.

The Assistant Zookeeper's duties may include, but are not limited to:

  • Assist zookeepers in the day-to-day care of the reptiles and amphibians
  • Feeding and watering animals as directed
  • Prepare diets for animals; caring for food/insect colonies
  • Cleaning and maintaining assigned animal areas and workspaces as directed and according to established BioPark and AZA guidelines
  • Opening and closing assigned public buildings; helping maintain cleanliness
  • Observing and assisting with select animal enrichment preparation and sessions
  • Engaging with guests during animal care chats, feedings, and training sessions

A successful Assistant Zookeeper will:

  • Be familiar with the purpose and importance of zoos and aquariums
  • Prioritize safety
  • Understand, respect, and follow all protocols
  • Be able to work efficiently and quickly adapt to change during the workday
  • Have a friendly and open personality and enjoy working with a diverse group of individuals
  • Be able to communicate, receive, and adapt to constructive feedback
  • Be confident working independently as well as in a fast-paced team environment
  • Be motivated, hard-working, and dependable
  • Be comfortable working for several hours a day in hot and humid environments and outdoors in variable weather conditions

Qualifications

  • Candidates must pass a security background check and tuberculosis test to be hired
  • Applicants must be 18 years or older, have a high school diploma, and be physically able to lift or move up to 50 pounds (feed bags, animal waste, and equipment). 
  • Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation (standing, walking, reaching, bending, squatting, kneeling for prolonged periods; heavy, moderate or light lifting, pulling, and pushing).
  • Applicants must be able to work around a variety of animals, the public, extreme heat, noise, dust, insects, and in inclement weather conditions
  • Prior experience with reptile/amphibian care is preferred, but not required

Work Schedule

Full-time. Generally five days on, two days off from 8 am to 5 pm. Will work weekends; occasional holiday and evening work may be required. May not exceed 40 hours per week.

Pay Rate

$12.50 per hour. This position is employed through a temporary staffing agency, not the City of Albuquerque.

To Apply:

Please provide a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three references. Send this information to [email protected].with the subject line Application for Assistant Zookeeper II - Reptiles and Amphibians with Albuquerque BioPark. Applications must be received by September 20, 2026.