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Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

Experience with reptile and amphibian exhibit design, including environmental parameter management ... John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures ...

City of Mesa, AZ

Museum Exhibitions Coordinator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

PO Box 1466, Mesa, AZ Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 16974 Department: (H400)Arts and Culture ... Considerable (3 - 5 years) experience in museum or cultural exhibit design, fabrication ...

Ideum

Exhibit Fabricator I

Corrales, NM · On-site

$43K/yr

The Position We seek a full-time Exhibit Fabricator I to help build and install custom exhibits. We ... Our clients for these projects are world-famous museums, zoos, aquariums, and Fortune 500 companies ...

Ideum

Exhibit Fabricator I

Corrales, NM · On-site

$43K/yr

The Position We seek a full-time Exhibit Fabricator I to help build and install custom exhibits. We ... Our clients for these projects are world-famous museums, zoos, aquariums, and Fortune 500 companies ...

SFZOO

Chief Animal Officer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Participate in master planning, exhibit design, and capital improvement projects * Oversee ... Represent the Zoo in professional associations and conservation initiatives (e.g., AZA programs ...

Nashville Zoo

Herpetology Keeper

Nashville, TN

... Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time ... Provide exhibit security and take appropriate actions to prevent vandalism and maltreatment of ...

Nashville Zoo

Herpetology Keeper

Nashville, TN · On-site

... Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time ... Provide exhibit security and take appropriate actions to prevent vandalism and maltreatment of ...

Nashville Zoo

Area Supervisor - Aquatics

Nashville, TN · On-site

... Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time ... Provide exhibit security and take appropriate actions to prevent vandalism and maltreatment of ...

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All JobsFull Time Zoo Exhibit Design Jobs

Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design information

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How much do full time zoo exhibit design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time zoo exhibit design in the United States is $27.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do zoo designers make?

Zoo designers, also known as exhibit designers, typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Salaries can increase with specialized skills in 3D modeling, environmental design, and certification in related fields. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers working on large or high-profile exhibits can earn more.

What is the difference between Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design vs Zoo Exhibit Construction Specialist?

AspectFull Time Zoo Exhibit DesignZoo Exhibit Construction Specialist
CredentialsDesign degrees, certifications in exhibit planningConstruction certifications, trade skills
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, zoo offices, client meetingsConstruction sites, physical installation areas
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, exhibit design firms, consulting agenciesConstruction companies, zoo facilities
Search & Comparison IntentDesign process, conceptual planningBuilding, installation, physical craftsmanship

Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design focuses on creating and planning zoo exhibits through design and conceptual work, while Zoo Exhibit Construction Specialists are involved in the physical building and installation of those exhibits. Both roles are essential in the exhibit development process but differ in skills, environment, and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Zoo Exhibit Designer, and why are they important?

Success as a Full Time Zoo Exhibit Designer requires a background in architecture, landscape architecture, or a related field, along with knowledge of animal welfare and exhibit design principles. Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as familiarity with building codes and sustainable design practices, is crucial. Creativity, strong communication, and collaboration skills help designers work effectively with zoo staff, engineers, and animal care experts. These competencies ensure exhibits are functional, engaging, and safe for both animals and visitors, aligning with conservation and educational goals.

What is the highest paid job at a zoo?

The highest paid jobs at a zoo are typically executive roles such as zoo directors or executive directors, who oversee operations, budgets, and staff. These positions often require extensive experience in management, zoology, or related fields and can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size and location of the zoo.

How much do set and exhibit designers make?

Set and exhibit designers, including those working on zoo exhibits, typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Entry-level designers may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially with advanced CAD or 3D modeling expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in full-time zoo exhibit design, and how are they addressed?

Professionals in full-time zoo exhibit design often encounter challenges such as balancing animal welfare needs with visitor engagement and operational constraints like budget and space. They must collaborate closely with animal care staff, architects, and educators to ensure exhibits are safe, enriching, and accessible. Meeting regulatory standards and incorporating sustainable materials can also add complexity. Success in this role relies on effective teamwork, creative problem-solving, and adaptability to evolving best practices in animal care and exhibit trends.

How to become a zoo exhibit designer?

To become a zoo exhibit designer, typically a bachelor's degree in architecture, landscape architecture, zoology, or a related field is required. Relevant skills include knowledge of animal habitats, environmental design, and proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD or SketchUp; experience through internships or portfolio work is also valuable.

What does a Full Time Zoo Exhibit Designer do?

A Full Time Zoo Exhibit Designer is responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing the construction of animal habitats and displays in zoos. Their work involves creating environments that are safe and enriching for the animals, while also providing educational and engaging experiences for visitors. They collaborate with zookeepers, veterinarians, architects, and engineers to ensure the exhibits meet animal welfare standards and comply with regulations. Additionally, they consider elements like naturalistic landscaping, sustainability, and visitor flow in their designs. This role requires creativity, technical skills, and a strong understanding of animal behavior and needs.
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What cities are hiring for Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Exhibit Design jobs? The most popular types of Zoo Exhibit Design jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design jobs are:
Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Zoo Exhibit Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,220 per year, or $28 per hour.
Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

John Ball Zoo

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

John Ball Zoo rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

SENIOR ZOOKEEPER
The Area 2 Senior Zookeeper performs general daily animal care functions including the maintenance of live exhibits and holding facilities, animal training, diet preparation and feeding, and enrichment delivery. This position guides the team in daily operations, serves as a resource and provides training for all animal care staff, volunteers, and interns in the development of job skills related to daily animal care, and, under manager direction, liaises with other teams and departments. This position is primarily responsible for amphibians and reptiles (ex: small crocodile species, large pythons, iguanas, monitor lizards, and venomous.
This is a union position. Pay will be based on experience: $20.62 - $26.33 per hour
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SENIOR ZOOKEEPER AT JBZ
The Senior Zookeeper monitors animals in Area 2 (including amphibians, reptiles, primates, and aquatics) to ensure that they are physically and mentally healthy, uninjured, and exhibiting normal behavior. They perform advanced animal care and management, including but not limited to animal procedures, escape response, capture and restraint, transports, introductions, and training, as well as performing daily inspections of exhibits and holding areas to assess environment quality. They complete required documentation, report concerns to animal care managers, and provide guidance and assistance to teams on projects as directed by animal care leadership. They also assist with the development and writing of standard operating procedures and department policies and procedures.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR ZOOKEEPER AT JBZ
  • Bachelors degree in life science or related field
  • At least five years of experience in exotic animal care or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience in animal care
  • At least three years of experience working with venomous animals and teaching others safe venomous handling
  • Experience with reptile and amphibian exhibit design, including environmental parameter management, exhibit building, and water quality management
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to ensure thorough and effective communication with a broad spectrum of stakeholders include, but not limited to: team members, managers, volunteers, leadership, and guests.
  • Experience leading a team and mentoring others preferred.
  • Ability to develop positive professional relationships with all levels of staff and volunteers.
  • Ability to work with potentially deadly animals (PDAs).
  • Ability to act as the point of contact for area when managers are not present - including addressing animal/space issues (unplanned medical issues, escapes, malfunctioning/damaged infrastructure); liaising with other departments and teams as needed; making and communicating changes as needed.
  • Experience developing and writing SOPs, department policies, and animal behavior plans preferred.
  • Demonstrated computer competence to complete required record keeping and communication. Experience using ZIMS preferred.
  • Dive-certified or ability to obtain dive certification
  • Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
WHO WE ARE
At John Ball Zoo, our mission is to inspire our community to be actively engaged in the conservation of wildlife and our natural environment. John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures excellent animal care and a dedication to conservation. As one of the top attractions in Grand Rapids, we welcome over 700,000 guests each year who are able to experience over 2,000 animals of over 230 species that represent the beautiful wildlife living in our world! We are passionate about our mission focused on education and conservation but know that our 120+ full time and 350 seasonal people guided by our core values accomplish this mission. Our core values are:
  • Conservation
  • Education
  • Community
  • Celebrate
  • Compassion
BENEFITS AT JBZ
  • We offer incredibly competitive benefits. This includes FREE:
  • Medical plan option
  • Short-term disability
  • Long-term disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Dental amp; Vision for employee amp; family
  • 12 Full weeks of parental leave
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
We offer generous Vacation and Personal time and 11 Holidays each year. We offer a 4% match and 3% employer contribution to your 401k, zoo discounts, employee-only zoo experiences, tuition reimbursement, additional medical benefits to meet your and your family's needs, and a FREE Premium Zoo membership for you and your family.
WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Employee will work in various environments both inside and outside and will be exposed to inclement weather; pollen, mold, dust, dirt, and other airborne contaminants; and temperature variations. Must be able to tolerate exposure to anti-bacterial, disinfectants and other cleaning compounds. Must be able to wear all required protective clothing and equipment. Must be able to work near exotic and domestic animals and tolerate exposure to animal dander, animal wastes, and other zoonotic contaminants. Must be able to lift at least 50lbs and stand for at least two hours. Must be able and available to be tested annually for tuberculosis. Must be, or able to be, immunized against Hepatitis-B and rabies.
NEW TO GRAND RAPIDS
Come live in the beautiful Grand Rapids where you can find live music, art festivals, outdoor recreation, and nationally ranked food and craft beverages. You can drive 20 minutes and be by the beautiful Lake Michigan, hike and kayak by the Grand River, or stay downtown and enjoy a variety of food and drinks. Grand Rapids is known as Americas’ best beer city, nation's craft beverage capital, and a top 20 U.S. Foodie city. There is a little bit of everything here in Grand Rapids to attract everyone including our growing zoo!
John Ball Zoo is a drug free facility under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. We invite individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, hairstyles, or any other characteristic to join our team where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.
We envision a future of being a world-class zoo, a premier education facility, a renowned conservation center, and a wildly successful national visitor attraction. Want to help make the adventure come alive? Apply today and join us!

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