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Entry Level Zoologist Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Zoologist information

See Florida salary details

$9

$12

$16

How much do entry level zoologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level zoologist in Florida is $12.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.68 and $13.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level zoologist?

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.

What are the typical responsibilities of an entry level zoologist?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level zoologist?

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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Zoologist jobs in Florida?

For Entry Level Zoologist jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Zoologist jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Zoologist jobs in Florida are:

Entry Level Zoologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Zoologist job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $26,325 per year, or $12.7 per hour.

Zoological Specialist, Associate (Part-Time)

Orlando, FL • On-site

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 10K+ employees
Learn more about SeaWorld Parks & Entertainmentexternal

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

At Discovery Cove Orlando, 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:
This role supports training sessions for a wide variety of zoological animal areas and programs. You will perform daily husbandry tasks, including administering vitamins and medications as directed, preparing food, and maintaining a safe and sanitary working area for all animal habitats.
  • Responsible for food preparation and storage
  • Provide and maintain a work environment that follows the established guidelines and safety procedures set by the department and park
  • Consistently display consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability
  • Observe animals and report any abnormalities to supervisor and team
  • Maintain all animal records and equipment
  • Consistently display consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability
  • Perform supportive speaking roles in education and general public presentations.
  • Proactively engage with guests and respond to guest inquiries
  • Work with animals using behavioral modification techniques as instructed
  • Ability to become proficient in the application of behavioral modification techniques used at SeaWorld.

What it takes to succeed:
  • Able to demonstrate strong verbal communication skills and enthusiastically share a passion for animals and conservation with our guests.
  • Must be comfortable speaking to large groups of people on stage during presentations
  • Proficient in talking on a microphone to large crowds of guests
  • SCUBA certified and have the ability to pass a dive physical
  • Able to complete provided CPR training/certification
  • Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Biology, or a related field preferred
  • Previous Marine Mammal Training and or Bird of Prey experience preferred
  • At least 18 years old
  • A valid state driver's license and be able to obtain a company driver's license
  • Ability 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
  • 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)
  • Ability 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
  • Perform cleaning duties, including use of cleaning chemicals
  • Work a flexible schedule/hours based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Must be 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

Note: 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.
The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:
  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

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.

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