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Conservation Zoology Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Daytime Educator (Level I or II)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16.06 - $18.17/hr

... conserve wildlife and wild places; how to protect our environment; and how every person can make a ... Minimum of 6 months experience with interpretation, formal or informal education in a zoological ...

Conservation Zoology information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$31.2K

$36.1K

$41K

How much do conservation zoology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation zoology in Decatur, GA is $36,065.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,700.00 and $37,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Conservation Zoology vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectConservation ZoologyWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in zoology, ecology, or related fields; often includes conservation certificationsBachelor's or higher in biology, ecology, or wildlife management; may include similar certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, conservation sites, fieldwork in natural habitatsFieldwork, research labs, wildlife reserves, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental NGOs, government conservation agencies, research institutionsWildlife agencies, research organizations, environmental consultancies

Both Conservation Zoology and Wildlife Biologist roles focus on studying and protecting animal species. Conservation Zoology emphasizes species preservation within broader ecosystems and often involves policy work, while Wildlife Biologists may focus more on studying animal behavior and ecology. Both careers require similar education and certifications, and they frequently overlap in work environments and employer types.

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

To thrive as a Conservation Zoologist, you need a solid background in biology or zoology, field research experience, and typically at least a bachelor's or master’s degree in a related field. Expertise in data analysis software, GIS mapping tools, and familiarity with wildlife monitoring technologies are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and present findings effectively. These skills are vital for developing and implementing conservation strategies that protect wildlife and their habitats.

What are some common challenges faced by conservation zoologists in fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

Conservation zoologists often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh environments, limited funding for long-term projects, and navigating complex stakeholder relationships, including local communities and government agencies. Adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. Building partnerships with local organizations and staying current with technological advancements (like remote sensing or GPS tracking) can also enhance research outcomes and the overall impact of conservation efforts.

What is conservation zoology?

Conservation zoology is a specialized field of biology that focuses on the study, protection, and management of animal species and their habitats to prevent extinction and biodiversity loss. Conservation zoologists research animal populations, monitor ecosystems, and develop strategies to address threats such as habitat destruction, climate change, and poaching. Their work often involves collaborating with governments, NGOs, and local communities to create and implement conservation plans. Ultimately, conservation zoology aims to ensure the survival of wildlife and maintain healthy ecosystems for future generations.
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Zoology jobs in Decatur, GA? For Conservation Zoology jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Conservation Zoology jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation Zoology jobs in Decatur, GA are:
Infographic showing various Conservation Zoology job openings in Decatur, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 58% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,065 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Veterinary Technician Assistant (VTA)

Veterinary Technician Assistant (VTA)

Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Georgia Aquarium rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 36 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Position Title: Veterinary Technician Assistant (VTA)
Department: Animal Health
Classification: Non-Exempt/Full-time
Employee Type: TSN - Team Spec FT Non-exempt
Direct Report: Sr. Manager, Animal Health & Commissary Operations
Position Summary:
The Veterinary Technician Assistant (VTA) works with a diverse team in the implementation, and daily operation of the Animal Health Department through clinical animal care, husbandry, research, and conservation medicine for a wide variety of taxa. This individual works interdependently with other animal health staff, zoological operations staff and staff from the University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine (UGA-CVM) to ultimately yield the highest standard of aquatic animal veterinary care. Under the direction of the AHC and the Veterinary Technicians, the VTA will be responsible for assisting the Veterinary Technicians and Veterinarians with departmental operations, organization and general maintenance. This individual will have a secondary role in operating medical and diagnostic equipment and related instrumentation in the department, including Animal Health support areas at the Animal Care Facility (ACF). Cooperation in a reliable program of Quality Control (QC) for departmental equipment / procedures is essential.
Responsibilities:
  1. Supports GAI's veterinary and animal care staff to ensure an exceptional level of daily, primary clinical care for all species maintained by GAI.
  2. Helps prepare for animal health procedures/exams and assists with medical treatments as directed under the guidance of the AHC and Veterinary Technicians.
  3. Is responsible for assistance with the maintenance of all veterinary diagnostic and related equipment. Maintains inventory of supplies, medications and other clinically related items in all on site Animal Health areas and at the Animal Care Facility with assistance from technicians and volunteers.
  4. Under the direction of the AHC and Veterinary Technicians, assists in maintaining the GAI veterinary pharmacy & inventory, ensuring compliance with controlled substances regulations, removing and replacing expired therapeutics and medical supplies.
  5. Assists with maintenance and operation of the GAI Diagnostic Laboratory as needed via sample processing, stocking/ordering supplies and cleaning/organizing.
  6. Assists as needed with the GAI pathology program via transfer of specimens to the necropsy suite and cleaning/organizing the necropsy suite.
  7. Works within GAI's Hospital, Diagnostic Laboratory and Animal Care Facility participating enthusiastically in a program of QC for all in-house veterinary diagnostic, medical/surgical equipment and associated instrumentation.
  8. Assists in maintaining GAI diagnostic and related medical records at the highest standards. Updates medical records as necessary. Attends daily clinical meetings, medical rounds and gives progress reports.
  9. Is detail oriented and willing to perform a wide variety of tasks, most of which will not be directly animal related.
  10. Is on-call for emergency duty during certain critical time periods (i.e., when necessary, provides technical support outside standard working hours, during animal transports, critical medical cases, etc.).
  11. Works seamlessly with all GAI staff and volunteers and is a consistently positive role model helping to maintain a cohesive, harmonious working environment.
  12. Performs other duties as workload necessitates.

Qualifications:
  1. Experience as a veterinary technician assistant in a veterinary clinic or in a zoo/aquarium setting.
  2. Some experience with clinical care and handling of aquatic animals and aquatic animal holding systems is highly desirable.
  3. Familiarity with basic principles of diagnostic veterinary medicine and pathology, including familiarity with a clinical laboratory setting is desirable.
  4. Effective problem analysis and resolution skills.
  5. Above average ability to organize, manage time and set priorities while meeting deadlines.
  6. Ability to be flexible and shift priorities to meet departmental requirements and program needs.
  7. Ability to maintain a high level of professionalism, integrity and confidentiality.
  8. Superior verbal and written communication skills essential.
  9. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook).

Commitment:
I commit to Georgia Aquarium, Inc. to be a part of the following:
Mission: Georgia Aquarium is a nonprofit committed to inspiring awareness and preservation of our ocean and aquatic animals worldwide.
Vision: To be the Premier Aquarium in the World for Science, Entertainment, Education and Conservation.
Values: Integrity, Innovation, Leadership, Teamwork, Respect, Excellence, Appreciation & Inclusion
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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