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Entry Level Zoologist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Zoologist information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$14

$19

How much do entry level zoologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level zoologist in Michigan is $14.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $15.72 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Zoologist job openings in Michigan 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 $30,704 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Seasonal Security Officer

Detroit Zoological Society

Royal Oak, MI • On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Seasonal Security Officer
The Security Officer is responsible for performing or assisting with the following duties, access control, emergency response, crowd control, performing escorts and courtesy transports, criminal investigations, answering phones, writing reports, maintaining logs, performing inspections, investigations, dispatch and overseeing contract security personnel.
The DZS Security Officer will support, both publicly and privately, the principles of the Detroit Zoological Society, maintain a professional manner when dealing with all constituencies, and always preserve a high level of confidentiality.
This job description is by no means all-inclusive and may be subject to change during a performance period due to the needs of the Detroit Zoological Society and its leadership. This document will be reviewed on a continual basis and will be modified as needed.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform foot and/or vehicle or bicycle patrol of facility
  • Respond to all emergencies, incidents, alarms, and/or situations as requested
  • Investigate all incidents and create accurate and timely incident reports
  • Be observant and provide visible deterrent to crime and disruptions
  • Be a guest service centered officer that provides assistance to guests, staff, and volunteers in a courteous and professional manner
  • Provide necessary first aid and/ or CPR if and when needed (Must be willing to be CPR/AED, First Aid, and Stop the Bleed trained)
  • Escalate emergency situations using Incident Command protocols and notify, assist, and direct external emergency personnel as needed
  • Monitor access levels of staff and volunteers using CCTV and security analytic software
  • Enforce and comply with all Zoo policy and procedures
  • Complete safety checks of patrol areas to ensure safety equipment is compliant and in working order
  • Provide assistance with crowd control and parking as needed
  • Must be willing to work at satellite campuses as needed
  • Must be willing to use a motorized vehicle during high traffic and/or stressful situations utilizing defensive driving techniques
  • Ability to monitor and respond to multiple radio channels
  • Performs health screenings of staff, guests, and volunteers including monitoring temperature as needed
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • No felony, drug related, child/spouse/animal abuse or theft convictions. Must pass the State of Michigan State Police Criminal Background check or equivalent from other states of residence.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent phone skills
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Must be a team player and worker who will work well with and support co-workers and supervisors
  • Cooperative, professional demeanor
  • Good oral and writing articulation skills
  • Accurate record keeping ability
  • Able to work varied hours and extended shifts

Preferred
  • Previous experience in a customer service position.
  • Previous experience in a security position.
  • CPR/AED Certification
  • Knowledge of the Incident Command System
  • Above average computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Access

Working Conditions
The regular work schedule will include weekends, evenings, early-mornings, and holidays. Work is performed in an environment that has a high volume of traffic, requires the ability to deal with stressful and sometimes abusive situations. The Security Officer will be required to work in rain, snow, and extremely hot and cold temperatures.
Physical Requirements
The individual will be required to stand and sit for extended periods of time; must be able to multitask. Must be able to walk or ride a bicycle for an entire shift while being exposed to extreme elements. The individual should be able to lift a minimum of 25 pounds. Bending, squatting, walking, and running will be required. The individual will be required to pass an entry level drug screen and may be subjected to periodic drug tests.
The individual must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily with or without accommodations. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.
Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.