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$8

$46

$192

How much do safari park jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for safari park in the United States is $46.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a safari park worker do?

Safari Park workers are professionals who help operate and maintain safari parks, which are large wildlife reserves where visitors can observe animals in environments that resemble their natural habitats. Their roles can include animal care, guiding tours, educating guests about wildlife, ensuring visitor safety, maintaining park facilities, and supporting conservation efforts. Some may specialize in animal health as veterinary staff, while others focus on customer service or park maintenance. The work often involves a combination of outdoor activity, animal interaction, and public engagement. Safari Park workers play a crucial role in wildlife preservation and in providing educational and memorable experiences for visitors.

What is the difference between Safari Park vs Zookeeper?

AspectSafari ParkZookeeper
Primary RoleManaging and overseeing large-scale wildlife exhibits and safaris for public education and entertainmentCaring for and maintaining individual animals in zoo or wildlife sanctuary settings
Work EnvironmentOpen-air safari parks, large outdoor enclosures, public interaction areasZoo enclosures, animal habitats, indoor facilities
Required CredentialsWildlife management, environmental science, or related fields; certifications varyVeterinary technology, animal science, or related certifications

While both roles involve working with animals, Safari Park staff focus on managing large-scale exhibits and public safaris, whereas Zookeepers primarily care for individual animals within zoo settings. Safari Park roles often require knowledge of wildlife management and outdoor work, while Zookeeper roles emphasize animal husbandry and veterinary care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a safari park ranger?

To thrive as a Safari Park Ranger, you need expertise in wildlife management, conservation principles, and often a degree in biology, zoology, or environmental science. Familiarity with GPS tracking, animal care software, and first aid certifications are typically required. Strong communication, public engagement, and crisis management skills help rangers educate visitors and handle emergencies. These abilities are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, guest safety, and effective conservation efforts in a dynamic park environment.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a safari park environment?

Staff members at a Safari Park often encounter unique challenges, such as managing the safety of both visitors and animals while maintaining an engaging educational experience. Working outdoors means adapting to varying weather conditions and sometimes dealing with unpredictable animal behavior. Additionally, effective teamwork and communication are essential, as staff must collaborate closely with animal care specialists, educators, and guest services to ensure smooth park operations. Flexibility and a strong commitment to animal welfare and guest satisfaction are crucial to thriving in this dynamic environment.
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What states have the most Safari Park jobs?

States with the most job openings for Safari Park jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Safari Park jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Safari Park jobs are:

Safari Park jobs near you
Infographic showing various Safari Park job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,893 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Horticulturist - Seasonal Full-Time - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Escondido, CA • On-site

$28.51/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Horticulturist performs all job assignments with a positive attitude that supports San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission and vision of saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. The Horticulturist under direction, performs routine horticultural, grounds maintenance, and tree related work of assigned area; develops new area when necessary. This position reports to a Lead/Supervisor.
This class is distinguished from the next higher class, Senior Horticulturist, in that the Senior Horticulturist works under minimal supervision and its duties require more horticultural skills and knowledge. The Horticulturist class performs a wide range of standard duties under general supervision at the Zoo or Safari Park.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Plant Cultivation and Care:
    • Plant and transplant various types of flora based on seasonal and environmental requirements.
    • Monitor plant growth and health, identifying biotic and abiotic disorders.
    • Implement appropriate fertilization, mulching and irrigation methods to ensure optimal plant development.
    • Prune, trim, and shape plants to encourage healthy growth and maintain desired aesthetics.
  • Equipment Management and Safety:
    • Complete and adhere to required safety trainings
    • Effective communication with internal and external stakeholders
    • Operate and maintain horticultural equipment, such as lawnmowers, tractors, trimmers, and irrigation systems.
    • Ensure tools are cleaned, sharpened, and stored properly to prolong their lifespan.
    • Ensure vehicles are operated and maintained in alignment with Vehicle Code and Garage maintenance expectations.
  • Soil Management and Improvement:
    • Conduct soil analysis to determine nutrient content, pH levels, and drainage capabilities.
    • Implement soil improvement strategies, such as composting, mulching, and aeration.
    • Recommend soil amendments and apply them as needed to optimize plant growth.
  • Pest and Disease Control:
    • Monitor for pests and diseases, identifying early signs of infestation or infection.
    • Implement integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to minimize the use of chemical pesticides.
    • Apply appropriate pesticides or biological controls when necessary, following safety protocols and regulations.

  • Environmental Conservation and Sustainability:
    • Promote environmentally friendly practices, such as water conservation, composting, and native plant preservation.
    • Educate staff, visitors, or clients on sustainable gardening techniques and the importance of biodiversity.

  • Research, Record Keeping and Documentation:
    • Maintain detailed records of planting schedules, maintenance activities, and plant health assessments.
    • Create reports for management or clients on garden status, performance, and recommended improvements.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
JOB EXPERIENCE
  • Prior commercial plant care/landscape experience preferred

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • A.A. in horticulture, botany, plant science, or other related degree preferred.
  • Valid California Driver's License Upon Hire required

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of:
  • A variety of plants, plant materials and growth principles
  • Horticultural soil conditions and preparations
  • Methods and precautions for applying fertilizers and insecticides
  • Working knowledge of tree removal and maintenance practices
  • Proper watering techniques
  • Work safety practices
  • Effective customer relations skills

Ability to:
  • Troubleshoot basic irrigation problems
  • Manage soils, substrates, plants and amendments in a professional landscape
  • Keep accurate records
  • Research plants to provide special collections care
  • Use a variety of industry tools safely and effectively
  • Communicate and work effectively with others
  • Operate power machinery as required

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
  • Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Family Passes
  • Complimentary Tickets
  • Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Local and In-House Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS
  • Location: Escondido, CA
  • Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Non-Exempt Three-Month Seasonal Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
  • Hourly Rate: $28.51

About The Salary Ranges
The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.
Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.
If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.

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