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Seasonal Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Zoo Educator

Grand Rapids, MI

$14/hr

As a Zoo Educator, you'll facilitate school groups ages K-12 in STEM lessons including Penguineering, Exhibit Design, and provide behind the scenes tours of areas like our Commissary and Aquarium.

Memphis Zoo

Edu-Venturer (Part Time)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.50/hr

Edu-Venturers may deliver programming in seasonal Zoo Camps, school programs, seasonal/event programming, overnight programs, and informal encounters both on Zoo grounds and off. This position works ...

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Seasonal Zoo information

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How much do seasonal zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal zoo in the United States is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges faced by seasonal zoo employees during peak visitor periods?

Seasonal Zoo employees often experience high visitor volumes during peak seasons, which can make crowd management, guest service, and animal care more demanding. Balancing these responsibilities requires adaptability, patience, and strong communication skills. Employees may also need to work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, to accommodate visitor schedules. Despite these challenges, the role offers valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to work closely with animals and the public, fostering a dynamic and rewarding work environment.

What is a seasonal zoo?

Seasonal zoo jobs are temporary positions at zoos that are typically available during peak visitor seasons, such as spring and summer. These roles can include positions like guest services, concessions, education assistants, grounds maintenance, and animal care aides. Seasonal employees help manage increased crowds, assist with special events, and support regular staff. These jobs are a great way to gain experience working with animals or in a customer service environment. Most seasonal zoo jobs last a few months and may offer flexible schedules for students or part-time workers.

What is the difference between Seasonal Zoo vs Zoo Keeper?

AspectSeasonal ZooZoo Keeper
CredentialsMay require basic animal care certifications or trainingTypically requires a degree or certification in animal science or related field
Work EnvironmentTemporary, outdoor, seasonal settings with fluctuating staffFull-time, year-round work in zoo facilities with daily animal care duties
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for seasonal staffing needs in zoos and wildlife parksCore role in zoo operations, animal care, and exhibit maintenance

Seasonal Zoo roles are temporary positions often filled during peak visitor seasons, focusing on basic animal care and visitor assistance. Zoo Keepers are permanent staff responsible for daily animal care, enrichment, and exhibit management. While both roles involve working with animals in zoo settings, Zoo Keepers have more extensive responsibilities and require specialized training.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a seasonal zoo employee?

To thrive as a Seasonal Zoo Employee, you need a basic understanding of animal care, customer service, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale systems, radio communication devices, and basic animal handling equipment is commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you engage visitors and support colleagues in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for both guests and animals during the busy season.
More about Seasonal Zoo jobs
What cities are hiring for Seasonal Zoo jobs? Cities with the most Seasonal Zoo job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs? The most popular types of Zoo jobs are:
What states have the most Seasonal Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for Seasonal Zoo jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Seasonal Zoo jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Seasonal Zoo jobs are:
Seasonal Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seasonal Zoo job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,949 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Seasonal Zoo Educator

John Ball Zoo

Grand Rapids, MI

$14/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 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

26th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

JOB SUMMARY
Join our dynamic School amp; Youth Education team at John Ball and inspire young explorers to connect with nature, delve into captivating animal habitats, and engage in hands-on activities that ignite curiosity and foster creativity. As a Zoo Educator, you'll facilitate school groups ages K-12 in STEM lessons including Penguineering, Exhibit Design, and provide behind the scenes tours of areas like our Commissary and Aquarium. You'll join our diverse team who collaborate to ensure we're continuously improving programs and aligning with our state science standards.
Zoo Educators typically work Monday-Friday, with some evenings and weekends. Schedules vary, but the majority of programming falls between 8:30am-4pm. Hours vary weekly between 15-35 hours.
PAY RATE: Starting at $14.00 / Hour
WHATS IN IT FOR YOU?
  • Zoo Membership – during employment ($135 Value) 
  • Free Bus Passes  
  • Free Lunches
  • Incentive Opportunities for Close Encounters and Behind-The-Scenes Tours
  • Tickets to Special Events  
  • Reward-Based Incentives  
  • Flexible Scheduling (Student amp; Retiree Friendly) 
  • Personal amp; Professional Development Opportunities  
  • Easy Application!
WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Will work in various environments both inside and outside and may occasionally be exposed to inclement weather, temperature and air quality variations.
  • Must be able to work in relative proximity to exotic and domestic animals and tolerate exposure to animal dander, animal wastes and other zoonotic contaminants as well as dust, dirt, pollen and other airborne contaminants.
  • While performing the essential functions of this position the employee may be exposed to moving mechanical hazards; noxious fumes; blood borne pathogens; cleaning compounds; solvents; detergents; noise; and other hazards.

WHAT WE REQUIRE
  • Must be 18+ to apply
  • Prior experience in education preferred
  • Must pass background check and Central Registry Check
  • Must be available to work weekends and evenings when needed
John Ball Zoo is a drug-free workplace under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

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