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City Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oklahoma City Zoo

Preschool Lead

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$14.75/hr

The Preschool Lead Teacher at the Oklahoma City Zoo plays a vital role in fostering the academic and social-emotional growth of preschoolers (ages 2-5) through hands-on, nature-based learning! From ...

Oklahoma City Zoo

Preschool Lead

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$14.75/hr

The Preschool Lead Teacher at the Oklahoma City Zoo plays a vital role in fostering the academic and social-emotional growth of preschoolers (ages 2-5) through hands-on, nature-based learning! From ...

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How much do city zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for city zoo in the United States is $56.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.51 and $65.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between City Zoo vs City Wildlife Specialist?

AspectCity ZooCity Wildlife Specialist
Required CredentialsZoo or animal management degree, certifications in animal careWildlife biology or conservation degree, certifications in wildlife handling
Work EnvironmentZoo facilities, animal enclosures, visitor areasFieldwork, urban or natural habitats, conservation sites
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, animal parks, educational institutionsEnvironmental agencies, conservation organizations, research institutes

While both roles involve animal care and conservation, City Zoo staff primarily work within zoo facilities managing animals and educating visitors. In contrast, City Wildlife Specialists focus on fieldwork, wildlife conservation, and habitat management outside of zoo settings. Both careers require relevant degrees and certifications but differ in work environment and employer focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zookeeper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a zookeeper, you need a background in animal science or biology, hands-on animal care experience, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and specialized animal handling equipment is typically required. Strong observation skills, teamwork, and the ability to communicate effectively with both colleagues and the public are crucial. These skills ensure the well-being of animals, the safety of staff and visitors, and the smooth operation of the zoo.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeepers working at a city zoo, and how can they be managed?

Zookeepers at city zoos often encounter challenges such as managing the diverse needs of multiple animal species, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and engaging with the public during educational programs. Additionally, they must work collaboratively with veterinarians, educators, and maintenance staff to maintain animal health and exhibit standards. Effective communication, adaptability, and ongoing professional development are key to successfully navigating these challenges and contributing positively to the zoo's mission.

What is a city zoo?

A city zoo is a public facility located within an urban area that houses and cares for a variety of animal species, often from around the world. Its primary purposes are wildlife conservation, education, research, and recreation. City zoos provide opportunities for people to learn about animals and their habitats, support endangered species, and promote awareness of environmental issues. They are typically managed by local government or non-profit organizations and may offer special programs, exhibits, and events for visitors.
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What states have the most City Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for City Zoo jobs include:
What job categories do people searching City Zoo jobs look for? The top searched job categories for City Zoo jobs are:
City Zoo jobs near you

Security Officer - (Part-Time) Weekends 0630-1500

Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City, OK

$14.48/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Oklahoma City Zoo rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

The Oklahoma City Zoo is looking for Security Officer to help protect our guests, employees, and amazing animals. From patrolling the grounds to assisting with medical care, you'll be a key part of keeping the Zoo safe, secure, and full of adventure.

Employment Status: Part-Time Regular 

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Pay Rate: $14.48/hr

Experience Required: General security experience.

Minimum Education Requirements: High School diploma or G.E.D. OR, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.

Department: Security.

Direct Supervisor: Security Supervisor.

Supervisory Responsibility: Direct (0); Indirect (0) 

Primary Work Location: Zoo setting both indoors and outdoors.

Certification: Valid Oklahoma driver's license within thirty (30) days of hire and pass driver's history check.

Other: This position is safety sensitive. It is subject to pre-employment and/or periodic background checks and drug testing. Must have ability to pass annual TB tests. Please take note of the deadline to apply. All applications must be in on or before November 12th. 

Job Summary: The Security Officer ensures the Zoo is secure 24 hours and the employees, guests, and animals at the zoo are safe. May assists and/or provide medical care for Zoo guests and employees. 

Essential Job Functions

An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential duties:

  • Inspect buildings and grounds for all safety conditions and report issues to appropriate Zoo personnel.
  • Check the temperatures of buildings required to maintain an assigned temperature.
  • Check perimeter and parking lot; escort vehicles when needed. 
  • Some Security may serve as EMT for the Zoo as assigned; provide medical assistance and call for emergency help as needed.
  • Respond to non-emergency medical needs of guests and employees; render first aid or call for emergency medical assistance.
  • Patrol Zoo grounds to ensure the safety of Zoo guests, staff, animal collection, and buildings.
  • Interact and communicate with Zoo guests to ensure a positive Zoo experience (e.g. responding to questions, transporting during emergencies, locating missing persons).
  • Provide traffic control on Zoo grounds and in parking lot.
  • Assume custody of lost or found articles and maintain records.
  • Respond to Zoo "Code" emergencies and drills in accordance with Zoo policy.
  • Provide crowd control.
  • Assist with accidents, disturbances, or other emergency situations on Zoo grounds; document and maintain records.
  • Update and maintain zoo security logs and animal temperature logs.
  • Train and safely utilize firearms.
  • Maintain security and monitor Zoo events.

About Us

Oklahoma City is one of the fastest-growing metros in the United States and is the 20th largest city in the nation. For nearly two decades our residents have continually invested in our community to make it a place people can find belonging, visit and call home. Our employees are at the heart of those investments-delivering essential services our residents expect and creating a strong and thriving city for all people. Visit Oklahoma City--A Great Place to Live and Work! to learn more about our city.


The Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden connects people with our world's vanishing wildlife and wild places to inspire conservation action. We're  seeking candidates who are passionate about the planet and all that inhabit it. Join our team of hardworking experts and get ready for a career that you're wild about! To learn more about the Oklahoma City Zoo and our conservation efforts, please visit www.okczoo.org.

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