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Senior Zookeeper Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Fort Wayne Metals

Senior Engineer- Onsite

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview The Senior Engineer will provide internal and external customer support, technical and ... From TinCaps Night to family days at the zoo, we offer multiple activities throughout the year for ...

Compass Group

SENIOR SOUS CHEF

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... zoos and cultural institutions, theaters, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy ... Working as the Senior Sous Chef , you will be responsible for assisting in the successful operation ...

Compass Group

SENIOR SOUS CHEF

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... zoos and cultural institutions, theaters, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy ... Working as the Senior Sous Chef , you will be responsible for assisting in the successful operation ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsZookeeper JobsSenior Zookeeper JobsSenior Zookeeper Jobs in Indiana

Senior Zookeeper information

See Indiana salary details

$23.8K

$76.4K

$155.6K

How much do senior zookeeper jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior zookeeper in Indiana is $76,398.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior zookeeper?

Senior Zookeepers are experienced animal care professionals responsible for overseeing the daily care, health, and enrichment of animals in a zoo or wildlife facility. They typically supervise junior staff, coordinate animal feeding and habitat maintenance, and often play a key role in training, record-keeping, and implementing animal welfare protocols. Senior Zookeepers may also participate in educational outreach and conservation projects. Their extensive experience allows them to handle complex situations and ensure the highest standards of animal care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior zookeeper?

To thrive as a Senior Zookeeper, you need extensive knowledge of animal husbandry, biology, and behavior, usually gained through a degree in zoology or a related field and several years of experience. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and certifications such as the AZA Professional Development Certificate are typically required. Leadership, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you manage junior staff, coordinate with veterinarians, and educate the public. These skills ensure the well-being of animals, the effectiveness of the team, and the overall success of zoo operations.

What are some common challenges senior zookeepers face when managing animal care teams?

Senior Zookeepers often balance hands-on animal care with supervising and mentoring junior staff. Challenges include coordinating schedules, ensuring all team members follow strict safety protocols, and addressing animal welfare concerns promptly. Effective communication and leadership are key, as Senior Zookeepers must facilitate collaboration between keepers, veterinarians, and other departments. Adapting to unexpected situations—such as animal health emergencies or changes in exhibit conditions—is also a frequent part of the role.

How much do senior zookeepers make?

Senior zookeepers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the institution. They often have specialized training in animal care and may oversee other staff members or complex exhibits.

Is it hard to get a job as a senior zookeeper?

Securing a senior zookeeper position can be competitive, often requiring several years of experience in animal care, strong knowledge of species, and relevant certifications such as first aid or specialized training. Employers typically look for demonstrated leadership skills and a deep understanding of animal behavior, making the role somewhat challenging to attain without extensive experience. Networking and a proven track record in zoo or wildlife settings can improve chances of success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zookeeper jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Zookeeper jobs in Indiana?

For Senior Zookeeper jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Zookeeper jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Zookeeper jobs in Indiana are:

Senior Zookeeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Zookeeper job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,398 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Vice President of Guest Experience

Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Indianapolis Zoo rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative Vice President of Guest Experience with extensive expertise in multi-unit revenue operations, financial management, and guest experience leadership. The ideal candidate will bring 10 or more years of senior leadership experience driving revenue growth, operational excellence, and guest satisfaction within a high-volume zoo, museum, theme park, sports and entertainment venue, hospitality organization, attraction, or similarly guest-focused industry. The candidate will have a proven record of leading high-performing, cross-functional teams responsible for admissions, attractions, parking, retail, food and beverage, group sales, large-scale public events, park operations and security. This executive leader will demonstrate the ability to develop and execute strategic revenue initiatives, optimize operational performance, deliver memorable guest experiences to over one million guests annually and build a culture of exceptional service across the organization while advancing the Zoo's mission and long-term strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide executive leadership for guest-facing and revenue-producing operations across multiple departments.
  • Lead strategic and long-range business planning initiatives that align with the Zoo's mission, strategic priorities, and financial objectives.
  • Drive earned revenue growth through innovative operational strategies, guest engagement initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Oversee annual operating plans, budgets, revenue forecasts, and financial performance metrics across assigned divisions.
  • Champion an exceptional, mission-aligned guest experience by advancing service standards, accessibility, inclusivity, and operational excellence.
  • Provide executive oversight of Security operations and support emergency preparedness planning and incident response efforts.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop senior leaders while fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Partner with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to advance institutional goals and ensure operational alignment across the organization.
  • Utilize data and performance metrics to inform strategic decision-making and enhance operational effectiveness.
  • Represent the Indianapolis Zoo at industry conferences, professional organizations, and community engagements while remaining informed of emerging trends and best practices.
  • Serve as an on-call executive leader for major operational events and security-related matters as needed.

What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Hospitality and Tourism, Business Management, or a related field required; postgraduate degree highly desired.
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience in guest services, hospitality, operations, or a related field, including at least five (5) years of personnel management experience.
  • Demonstrated success leading strategic planning initiatives and managing complex organizational operations.
  • Proven experience developing and managing departmental budgets, financial forecasts, and operational plans.
  • Exceptional leadership, communication, collaboration, and organizational management skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead through influence, manage multiple priorities, and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.
  • Experience driving revenue growth, operational efficiencies, and exceptional customer service outcomes.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a strategic and innovative mindset.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard business technologies.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and peak seasonal periods as organizational needs require.
  • Must possess an Indiana Driver's License (or the ability to obtain one within sixty (60) days of hire) and maintain a driving record insurable through the Indianapolis Zoo's insurance carrier.

Why Join Us?
The Indianapolis Zoo is more than a destination-we are a conservation organization committed to creating extraordinary experiences that inspire people to care for our world. As Vice President of Guest Experience, you will help shape the future of how our guests connect with wildlife, conservation, and the mission that drives us every day.
This role offers the opportunity to influence organization-wide strategy, lead high-performing teams, and drive meaningful results that impact our guests, our people, and our community. If you are a collaborative and visionary leader ready to make a lasting impact at one of the nation's premier zoological institutions, we encourage you to apply.
Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

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