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City Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oklahoma City Zoo

Preschool Lead

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$14.75 - $18.10/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 - $18.10/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 Aug 25, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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What states have the most City Zoo jobs?

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City Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Zoo job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,115 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

Part-Time Horticulture Technician

Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

$14.48/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 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

15th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description


If you love getting your hands dirty and watching things grow, this role is for you. The Horticulture Technician helps keep the Zoo's botanical gardens healthy, vibrant, and guest-ready through expert plant care, irrigation, and pest control.
Employment Status: Part-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: $14.48/hr
Experience Required: One (1) year of experience in formal landscape and grounds maintenance or an equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform the essential duties will be considered.
Minimum Education Requirements: High School diploma or G.E.D.
Department: Buildings and Gardens
Direct Supervisor: Assistant manager of Horticulture.
Supervisory Responsibility: None
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.
Job Summary: The horticulture technician helps maintain the horticultural program through plant health, pest control, flowerbed maintenance, and irrigation work of the Zoo's botanical gardens.
Essential Job Functions
An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential duties:
  • Collaborate duties with team, contractors, and volunteers.
  • Installs exterior, interior seasonal, ornamental plantings and turf. Performs related maintenance such as watering, irrigation systems, weeding, mulching, fertilizing, pruning, trimming, and landscape construction. Operate hand tools and heavy landscaping equipment.
  • Propagate plant materials by various means, seed, cuttings, divisions in a greenhouse/nursery setting.
  • Inspect, identifies, and treats for pests and diseases on exterior and interior plants.
  • Contribute to the Botanical Garden plant database, and the Botanical Garden monthly newsletter.
  • Provide quality customer service to both internal and external customers.
  • Promote and contribute to the Oklahoma City Zoo's sustainability initiatives and green practices.
  • Maintains Gardens and Grounds in and around an assigned area. Removal of litter, debris and trash from gardens, pathways and grounds.
  • Works with Buildings and Gardens Teams, and volunteers to provide quality service.
  • Communicate effectively regarding the status of projects as they pertain to the assigned areas of horticulture and grounds maintenance.
  • Foster constructive attitudes and team orientation among staff.
  • Represent the zoo in a professional manner.
  • Complete assigned tasks in a timely manner and meet deadlines.
  • Driving around the Oklahoma City area throughout the year.
  • Mow, weed, mulch, prune/ cut trees, load plant debris, and water plants and lawns.
  • Operate hand tools and heavy landscaping equipment.
  • Communicate and collaborate with Zoo personnel and professional colleagues.
  • Represent the zoo in a professional manner.
  • Create an atmosphere of respect with peers and work as a team.
  • Driving around the Oklahoma City area throughout the year.
  • Participate in conservation activities to support Zoo's mission.

Non-Essential Job Functions
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

About Us
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.
About the Team
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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