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Entry Level Zoology 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

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 ...

Animal Wrangler

Webster, TX

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

This is not an entry-level animal care position. The Animal Wrangler is responsible for feeding ... Bachelor's degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field ...

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 ...

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Entry Level Zoology information

See salary details

$20.5K

$43.6K

$70K

How much do entry level zoology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level zoology in the United States is $43,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I get if I study entry level zoology?

Entry level zoology graduates can pursue roles such as zoological technician, wildlife technician, animal care assistant, or research assistant. These positions often involve working in zoos, aquariums, research labs, or conservation organizations, and may require knowledge of animal handling, data collection, and basic biological techniques.

What is the difference between Entry Level Zoology vs Entry Level Marine Biology?

AspectEntry Level ZoologyEntry Level Marine Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Zoology, Biology, or related fieldBachelor's in Marine Biology, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentZoos, research labs, wildlife reservesMarine research centers, aquariums, coastal areas
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, conservation organizationsMarine research institutes, environmental agencies, aquariums

Entry Level Zoology and Entry Level Marine Biology share similar educational backgrounds and work environments focused on animal and environmental research. The main difference lies in their specialization: zoology focuses on terrestrial and freshwater animals, while marine biology concentrates on oceanic and marine species. Both roles serve conservation, research, and educational purposes, but marine biology often involves fieldwork in aquatic settings, whereas zoology may include land-based habitats.

How to become an entry level zoology with no experience?

To become an entry-level zoologist with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant bachelor's degree in zoology, biology, or a related field. Gaining practical skills through volunteering, internships, or assisting with research projects can improve your prospects; familiarity with fieldwork tools and animal handling is also beneficial.

What is an entry level zoologist?

Entry level zoology jobs are positions suitable for individuals who have recently graduated with a degree in zoology or a related field and have little to no professional experience. These roles often involve assisting with research, collecting and analyzing data on animals, working in laboratories or in the field, and supporting conservation efforts. Common job titles include research assistant, wildlife technician, animal caretaker, or laboratory technician. Entry-level zoologists may work for universities, government agencies, research organizations, zoos, or wildlife conservation groups. These positions help build foundational skills and experience necessary for advancing in a zoological career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level zoologist, 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 a sound understanding of animal biology and ecology. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, field research tools, and data analysis software such as GIS or statistical programs is often expected. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for accurately collecting data, collaborating with teams, and contributing meaningful research to wildlife conservation and scientific understanding.

What types of hands-on tasks can I expect as an entry level zoologist?

As an entry level zoologist, you will often assist with fieldwork, such as collecting data on animal behavior, habitats, and populations. In addition, you may help maintain animal enclosures, record observations, and support senior zoologists with laboratory tasks or research projects. Collaboration with team members is common, especially when gathering and analyzing data or preparing research reports. These experiences provide valuable exposure to research methods and animal care, laying the groundwork for future career advancement.
More about Entry Level Zoology jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Zoology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Zoology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoology jobs? The most popular types of Zoology jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Zoology jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Zoology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Zoology 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 $43,621 per year, or $21 per hour.

Zoological Specialist, Senior 1 (Aquarist)

SeaWorld

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


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.