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Entry Level Zoologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate: Entry level position * Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience * Senior:Minimum of 2.5 years (5,200 hours) professional zoological experience

Associate: Entry level position * Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience * Senior:Minimum of 2.5 years (5,200 hours) professional zoological experience

On Call Zoologist

Dallas, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position, on-call position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section: food preparation, feeding ...

On Call Zoologist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position, on-call position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section: food ...

JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section: food preparation, feeding, exhibit ...

Zoologist - WOA Hoofstock

Dallas, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section: food preparation, feeding, exhibit ...

Zoologist - WOA Hoofstock

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section: food preparation, feeding ...

Zoologist - Our entry-level animal care staff provide daily care for a variety of species while gaining valuable experience in husbandry, enrichment, and behavioral observation. Senior Zoologist ...

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Entry Level Zoologist information

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$12

$16

$22

How much do entry level zoologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level zoologist in the United States is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Zoologist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Zoologist, you need a bachelor's degree in zoology, biology, or a related field, along with strong research, observation, and data analysis skills. Familiarity with technical tools such as GIS software, statistical analysis programs (like R or SPSS), and laboratory or field equipment is also valuable. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are key soft skills that help entry-level zoologists excel. Mastering these abilities is essential for collecting accurate data, collaborating with colleagues, and contributing meaningfully to scientific projects and conservation efforts.

What are some typical responsibilities of an entry level zoologist during their first year?

In their first year, entry level zoologists often support research projects by collecting data in the field or in laboratories, assisting with animal observations, and helping maintain records and specimens. They may contribute to routine tasks such as setting up equipment, preparing samples, and recording environmental conditions. Collaboration is common, as new zoologists frequently work closely with senior researchers, wildlife technicians, and conservation staff. This hands-on experience helps new professionals develop essential skills while also gaining exposure to different areas within zoological research and wildlife management.

What is an Entry Level Zoologist job?

An Entry Level Zoologist conducts research on animals, their behavior, genetics, and habitats. They may work in labs, zoos, wildlife organizations, or government agencies to support conservation and ecological efforts. Typical tasks include data collection, specimen analysis, report writing, and assisting senior zoologists in field studies. This role provides foundational experience for advancing within zoology, wildlife biology, or related fields.

More about Entry Level Zoologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Zoologist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Zoologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoologist jobs? The most popular types of Zoologist jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Zoologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Zoologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Zoologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Zoologist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Zoologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,227 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Zoological Specialist, Senior 1 (Aquarist)

SeaWorld

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

At SeaWorld, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

What you get to do:

You will maintain husbandry of fish and other aquatic life in aquarium exhibits, including preparing food and feeding animals. This role will involve providing proper aquarium maintenance, such as algae removal, display diving, aquarium decorating, preventive maintenance, pump replacement, etc. You will:

  • Perform basic water quality testing, chemical additions, salt water make up, pH and temperature testing

  • Utilize knowledge of aquarium husbandry techniques, including taxonomy, record keeping, aquarium filtration, aquarium theory, and emergency procedures

  • Monitor aquarium health-related issues, including parasitic identification/treatment, and perform area quarantine procedures as needed

  • Assist with animal collecting and repairs to aquarium filtration systems

  • Answer guest questions concerning aquarium animals

  • Provide animal transports, in park and out of park

  • Follows proper park safety protocols and performs safety checks

  • Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, vendors and our guests

  • Perform other duties as assigned

As a 365 day/year operation, candidates are expected to provide flexible availability to support year-round operating needs. This may include, but is not limited to, working opening, mid-day and closing shifts during peak and non-peak seasons, as well as weekends and holidays.

What it takes to succeed:

  • At least 18 years of age

  • High school diploma

  • Have 18 or more months of experience in a similar public aquarium setting

  • Knowledge of food preparation and feeding techniques

  • Bachelor's degree in marine science or related field preferred

  • SCUBA certification

  • Valid driver's License

  • Strong communication, math, guest service and multitasking skills

What else is important:

  • Able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.

  • Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed

  • You will perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)

  • Able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat

  • Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors and cold/heat temperature extremes

  • Will perform cleaning duties; including use of cleaning chemicals

  • Will work flexible schedules/hours based on business needs, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays

  • Flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities

Position level and Compensation rate will be contingent on professional zoological animal care experience at an AZA or equivalent facility.

Level is determined through review and assessment of applicable experience by Zoo leadership. Experience required for each level is detailed below:

  • Associate: Entry level position
  • Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience
  • Senior:Minimum of 2.5 years (5,200 hours) professional zoological experience
  • Senior 1:Minimum of 5 years (10,400 hours) professional zoological experience

The perks of the position:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Complimentary Park Tickets and Passes
  • Park Discounts on Food and Merchandise
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401K Retirement plan
  • Voluntary Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Legal Assistance Plan

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.