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Assistant Zookeeper Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD

Knowledgeof Zoo's website to assist with email or phone inquiries about Zoo events,programs or campus. * Provideguests with informat i on on all aspects of the Zoo experience, exhibits,on-ground ...

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Knowledgeof Zoo's website to assist with email or phone inquiries about Zoo events,programs or campus. * Provideguests with informat i on on all aspects of the Zoo experience, exhibits,on-ground ...

Maryland Zoo

Exhibits Specialist

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$21/hr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary : Under ... Primary Functions : * Assist Horticulturedepartment with landscaping and planting projects, as ...

Maryland Zoo

Area Manager (Penguin Coast)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary ... Overseeand/or assist with medical treatments, preparation of food, feeding of animalsand ...

Maryland Zoo

Exhibits Specialist

Baltimore, MD

$21/hr

Primary Functions : * Assist Horticulturedepartment with landscaping and planting projects, as ... Represent the Zoo toguests, media, donors, zoo community associates, and the general public;

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Assistant Zookeeper information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$6

$17

$33

How much do assistant zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant zookeeper in Silver Spring, MD is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.29 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Assistant Zookeeper job?

An Assistant Zookeeper helps care for animals in a zoo by preparing food, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal behavior, and assisting with basic healthcare. They may also help with visitor education and enrichment activities for the animals. The role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and a passion for animal welfare. Assistant Zookeepers often work under the supervision of senior zookeepers and veterinarians to ensure the animals' well-being.

How hard is it to get a zoo keeper job?

Securing an assistant zookeeper position typically requires relevant education or experience in animal care, along with strong physical stamina and teamwork skills. Competition can be high, and candidates often need to demonstrate knowledge of animal behavior and safety protocols. Having certifications such as first aid or animal handling can improve chances of employment.

What zoo jobs are entry level?

Entry-level zoo jobs for assistant zookeepers typically include positions such as zoo attendant, animal care assistant, or volunteer roles that involve supporting animal husbandry and habitat maintenance. These roles often require basic animal handling skills, a high school diploma, and a willingness to work outdoors and on a flexible schedule.

Can you be a vet assistant zookeeper?

A zookeeper assistant typically focuses on animal care, habitat maintenance, and supporting zookeepers, while a vet assistant helps veterinarians with medical procedures and animal health. These roles require different training and certifications; being both may involve additional qualifications in veterinary assisting. Combining these roles is possible but usually requires specialized education and experience in both areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Assistant Zookeeper position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Zookeeper, you need a foundational knowledge of animal care, husbandry practices, and basic biology, often backed by a relevant degree or animal care experience. Familiarity with animal management software, safety equipment, and potential certifications in animal handling or first aid is highly valued. Strong observational skills, effective communication, teamwork, and a passion for animal welfare make candidates stand out. These skills are vital to ensure animal health, maintain safe and orderly zoo operations, and support the overall mission of wildlife conservation and education.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Zookeepers and how can they be managed?

Assistant Zookeepers often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in varying weather conditions, physically demanding tasks like cleaning enclosures or lifting feed, and managing the health and stress of diverse animal species. Effective time management and following strict safety protocols are essential to address these challenges. Additionally, clear communication and collaboration with senior zookeepers, veterinarians, and maintenance staff help ensure animal well-being and smooth zoo operations. Being proactive in learning and adapting to each species’ unique needs also contributes to job success and satisfaction in this dynamic role.

What does a zookeeper assistant do?

A zookeeper assistant supports zookeepers by feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and assisting with habitat maintenance. They often need knowledge of animal behavior and safety procedures, and may work early mornings, weekends, or holidays. The role helps ensure the well-being of animals and the smooth operation of the zoo or wildlife facility.
What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
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What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Assistant Zookeeper jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Assistant Zookeeper job openings:
Assistant Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Zookeeper job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,556 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Guest Services Event Operations Manager

Guest Services Event Operations Manager

Maryland Zoo

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
GeneralSummary: The Guest Services Event Operations Manager isresponsible for exciting, engaging, and entertaining visitors and members in away which promotes a positive Zoo experience and demonstrates unparalleledcustomer service. This position isresponsible for overseeing and executing Guest Services and DEAI events andprograms and serves as the onsite contact during special event days. Thisposition works closely with the department's directors and supports equipmentand technology set up for other Zoo departments as well. As part of the GuestServices management team, this position supports daily operations of the Zooand serves as Manager on Duty when necessary.
Additionally, the GuestServices Event Operations Manager will support the Zoo's mission to savewildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social,governance sustainability, conservation, education, and DEAI (Diversity,Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) goals.
EssentialFunctions:
Primary Functions:
  • Facilitate the dailystaffing and operation of the Guest Services area to include opening andclosing of appropriate locations, problem-solving, training, securing of funds,etc. in conjunction with fellow Managers and in accordance to company SOPs;
  • Maintain exceptionalstandards of customer service, cleanliness and physical appearance of alllocations and staff;
  • Along with the GuestServices Management team, continuously plan operational strategy to maximizerevenue contribution and level of service;
  • Lead or assist inplanning, coordinating, and implementing Guest Services and DEAI events; eventsinclude but not limited to Black History Month, Wildly Inclusive, BunnyBonanzoo, Field Days, AAPI Heritage Day, Pride at the Zoo, Juneteenth, WildWater Splash Days, Celebramos, Zoo Boo, and Holly Days; Support at Brew at theZoo and OktoBEARfest required as well; assist with vendor coordination andservice scheduling to support event programs;
  • Responsible formaintaining and organizing Zoo and departmental supplies and equipment,including inflatables and decorations, giveaways and prizes;
  • Lead or assist withequipment and technology setup of all Zoo rentals, events and education and developmentprograms;
  • Review department webpages to make sure event information is accurate;
  • Work collaborativelywith to create event collaterals such as posters, banners, handouts forinternal and external promotion of Zoo events and programs.
  • Prepare weeklyschedules for all seasonal, part-time, and full-time departmental staff;
  • Interact with guests in a friendly, professional, and informed mannerthat promotes the Zoo's message of conservation;
  • Ensure working order of equipment and maintain supplies to meetoperational objectives;
  • Provide guestcontrols, including challenging situations;
  • Ensure compliance of cash handling policies and procedures;
  • Maintain risk and safety management processes for the Guest ServicesDepartment; Comply with Zoo accident and incident standards; Effectively workwith risk and safety partners and ensure department and staff are prepared fordisaster and emergency response for guests and staff;
  • Lead or assist in the training for event equipment and technology;perform event setup and breakdown, assist with onsite oversight and executionof event days; respond to event-related inquiries and event confirmation emailswith guests and vendors;
  • Provide superior customer service by answering questions anticipatingguest and member needs, escalating issues when appropriate and meeting orexceeding guest expectations;
  • Collaborate with the Volunteer Department to ensure Zoo volunteers areassigned volunteer roles and managed appropriately during Guest Services andDEAI events as well as other assigned volunteer stations the support thedepartment;
  • Create and send post-event reports and follow ups to assess eventsuccess, gather feedback and identify opportunities for retentive business.
  • Assist in the development of community partnerships with the goal ofboth broadening the Zoo's reach with the community and also making sureofferings are diverse, accessible, equitable and inclusive;
  • Support supply and equipment inventory management, including trackingstock levels and coordinating reorders;
  • Serve as Manager onDuty;
  • Attend Zoo anddepartmental meetings;
  • Use sound judgmentand report incidents to management or security as necessary;
  • Assist otherdepartments as needed for cross-utilization of skills and manpower;
  • Perform other dutiesas assigned; and,
  • Adhereto all policies and procedures of the Zoo.

Communication(Internal and External):
  • Conductdaily briefings with all seasonal, full-time, and part-time staff to informthem of all happenings within the zoo in reference to Guest Servicesresponsibilities;
  • Communicatedaily schedules, events, and any changes for the main gate, exhibits orattractions to all staff so that they may notify guests if asked;
  • Activelycollaborate with the Animal, Marketing, Development, Education and Volunteer departmentsto design and implement programs and presentations;
  • Activelycollaborate with the Animal, Marketing, Development, Education, Events, GroupSales and Volunteer, Hospital and Maintenance departments to produce andparticipate in non-routine special events;
  • Workclosely with contracted concessions' management and staff to ensure adherenceto all Zoo policies and procedure.

Management ofResources (Financial, Human Resources, Facilities):
  • Cultivate, evaluate,and train staff, rendering discipline when necessary;
  • Collaborate with theSenior Director of Guest Services Strategies on all matters concerningpersonnel;
  • Support in therecruitment, hiring, training, evaluating and disciplining of all staff;
  • Coordinate with otherdepartments as necessary to fulfill any special needs relating to GuestServices (i.e. Events); and,
  • Organize breaks forGuest Services employees while ensuring adequate staffing levels to controlattendance flow.

MinimumQualifications:
Hospitality:
  • Friendly and outgoing;
  • Possess a positiveand patient attitude; and,
  • Possess excellentverbal communication skills.

Education:
  • Bachelor's Degree inBusiness, Hospitality, Recreation, Tourism, or related discipline (educationmay be substituted in lieu of relevant experience) preferred.

Experience/Training:
  • Minimum of two yearsin a supervisory management position;
  • Minimum of threeyears related experience in the hospitality or retail industry;
  • Proficiency withGoogle Workspace, Microsoft Office software, and web-based applicationsrequired;
  • Familiarity withPoint-Of-Sale systems preferred;
  • Familiarity withbusiness cash handling procedures;
  • Valid driver'slicense required; and
  • Floral or eventdesign a plus

Hospitality:
  • Friendly andoutgoing;
  • Possess a positiveand patient attitude;
  • Possess excellentverbal communication skills;
  • Possess excellentorganizational skills; and
  • Ability to multitaskand juggle multiple projects.

WorkingConditions:
  • Must be able to standand remain active for an eight-hour shift;
  • Must be able to walklarge areas of the Zoo as needed;
  • Must be able to workin an outdoor weather environment in all seasons and weather, includingheat/humidity, cold temperatures, and/or wet conditions;
  • Ability to work aflexible schedule to include weekends, holidays, and special events;
  • Must be able to exertup to 50 pounds of force to lift, push, pull, carry, or otherwise move objects;and,
  • Exposure to potentialenvironmental hazards such as poison oak/ivy, uneven terrain, insectbites/stings, and Hepatitis B depending on the position.

Equipment:
  • Must be able tooperate a variety of equipment including computer, telephone, two-radio, handtools, power tools, golf cart, rides, etc.

Traits Desirable:
  • Ability to work withindividuals from a wide variety of ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds;
  • Strong organizationaland communication skills; and,
  • Ability to identifyand resolve guest issues.

Benefits:
  • Excellent benefitspackage including 24 days of Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick and Safe Leave, and 2paid holidays.
  • Eligible for medical,dental, vision, and short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • 401K with employermatch.
  • Zoo individualmembership plus guest passes.

Disclaimer:
Thestatements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of workbeing performed by employees assigned to this classification. They arenot intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities,duties and/or skills required of all personnel so classified. Therefore,management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other ordifferent tasks be performed when circumstances change.
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