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Summer Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Denver Zoo

Summertime Improvisational Performer

Denver, CO · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Primary function for this role will be to act in two stock roles, namely: acting as our summer Celebration Captain to surprise and delight guests across the Zoo campus; and acting as a guest ...

Denver Zoo

Summertime Improvisational Performer

Denver, CO

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Primary function for this role will be to act in two stock roles, namely: acting as our summer Celebration Captain to surprise and delight guests across the Zoo campus; and acting as a guest ...

State of North Carolina

NC · On-site

$17/hr

Description of Work The North Carolina Zoo has an exciting opportunity to join our team. We are seeking a dynamic, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to serve as a Summer Camp Programmer. In this ...

Zoo New England

Camp Counselor

Boston, MA · On-site

$17.25/hr

... zoo, and all other aspects of ZooCamp. This position is for someone who is hardworking, enthusiastic, creative, and eager to learn. The summer will be filled with children and animals, so the ...

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All JobsSummer Zoo Jobs

Summer Zoo information

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$7

$15

$22

How much do summer zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer zoo in the United States is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Summer Zoo vs Summer Wildlife Educator?

AspectSummer ZooSummer Wildlife Educator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require animal handling certificationsHigh school diploma; certifications in wildlife education or animal care preferred
Work EnvironmentZoological parks, animal enclosures, visitor areasOutdoor settings, nature centers, educational programs
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, aquariums, wildlife parksWildlife centers, nature reserves, environmental organizations
Common Search & ComparisonSummer Zoo vs Summer Wildlife Educator

Summer Zoo roles focus on animal care, exhibit maintenance, and visitor engagement within zoological parks. In contrast, Summer Wildlife Educators primarily conduct outdoor educational programs, teaching visitors about wildlife and conservation. Both roles often require similar certifications and are found in related environments, but their main responsibilities differ—animal handling versus educational outreach.

What is a Summer Zoo job?

A Summer Zoo job typically refers to seasonal employment at a zoo during the summer months. These positions can include roles such as animal care assistants, camp counselors, guest services staff, or educators who help with summer programs and activities. The job often involves assisting with animal care, providing educational tours, supporting zoo events, and ensuring a positive experience for visitors. It is an excellent opportunity for students or individuals interested in wildlife, education, or hospitality to gain hands-on experience in a unique environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Zoo Educator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoo Educator, you need a background in biology, zoology, or education, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with educational technology, animal care protocols, and interpretive program tools is typically required. Strong communication, public speaking, and enthusiasm for engaging diverse audiences are vital soft skills. These abilities are essential for effectively educating visitors, promoting conservation, and ensuring safe, informative animal interactions.

What are some typical responsibilities for staff working at a summer zoo program?

Staff working at a summer zoo program typically engage in a variety of duties, including supervising youth participants, assisting with animal care routines, leading educational activities, and ensuring a safe and engaging environment for visitors. Team members often collaborate with zookeepers and educators to facilitate interactive experiences and support daily operations. This role requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a genuine enthusiasm for wildlife education, as tasks can vary greatly depending on the needs of the animals and the scheduled events.
More about Summer Zoo jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Zoo jobs? Cities with the most Summer 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 Summer Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Zoo jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Summer Zoo jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Zoo jobs are:
Summer Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Zoo job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, 2% Nights, and 31% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,041 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Educator - Zoo Camp (Seasonal)

Educator - Zoo Camp (Seasonal)

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$18.40/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Santa Barbara Zoo rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Are you passionate about connecting people of all ages to the wonders of wildlife and conservation? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking enthusiastic Educators to bring our mission to life through engaging Zoo Camp experiences. Join our team to inspire curiosity and foster a love for nature in a hands-on, fun, and creative environment!
Note: This position is fully outdoors and requires extensive walking through Zoo grounds (hills and inclines) in all weather conditions
Position Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Requirements: Applicant must be minimum 18 years of age. At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.
Compensation: $18.40/hour
Schedule: Seasonal position, Up to 16-40 hours/work week during school breaks, vary during school year.
Spring Camp: March 30 - April 3
Summer Camp: June 15 August 14 (Must commit to min 7 of the 10 weeks of Summer Camp)
Fall Camp: Nov 23-25 & 27
Winter Camp: Dec 21 - Dec 31 (No camp on Christmas Day 12/25 or New Year's Day 1/1)
JOB DESCRIPTION

SUMMARY:
Under general direction of the Education Manager and Education Team, Zoo Camp Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission through implementing tour Zoo Camps.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES include the following:

Zoo Camp:
  • Supervises groups of up to 15 children while delivering camp curriculum in an engaging, age-appropriate manner, working with a particular age group within the 3-13 age range.
  • Leads environmental and animal science activities, such as hands-on learning activities, games, crafts, stories, and songs.
  • Supervises and ensures the safety and well-being of assigned group.
SECONDARY DUTIES:
  • Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations.
  • Greets every guest with a smile.
  • Thanks guests for supporting and visiting the Zoo.
  • Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly.
  • Ensure the Zoos presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, and reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions.
  • Associates with guests to assist and share information.
  • Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoos uniform dress code.
  • Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings.
  • Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge.
POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education or environmental sciences or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Minimum of 6 months experience in informal presentations.
License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prefer experience in an environmental education setting
  • Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check.
  • First Aid and CPR certification required
  • TB tests and Tetanus vaccinations as necessary
  • Authorized to work in the United States
    • At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Basic knowledge of biology and zoology preferred.
  • Ability to organize, plan, collaborate and implement educational presentations.
  • Skilled in improvisation.
  • Energetic and engaging personality.
  • Ability to present educational programs to diverse audiences and large groups of people.
  • Ability to envision and implement innovative solutions and ideas.
  • Ability to contribute to the creative process.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of computer software including word processing and database programs.
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests.
  • Ability to exercise safe work habits.
  • Awareness of, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals.
Physical Demands; Work Environment:
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally and 10 or fewer pounds frequently.
  • Ability to exert a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
  • Ability to run, kneel, sit on the ground/floor, squat, and stand for long periods.
  • Ability to negotiate the zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage.
  • Involves walking out-of-doors in all weather conditions.
  • Supportive and open employment culture.
  • Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including, electric carts, telephones, printers, two-way radios, projectors, and copiers.
  • Ability to work outdoors most of the day.
Tools Used:
  • Two-way radios
  • Electric cart
  • Personal computer and software (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
  • Printer
  • Telephone system
  • Bio Facts and various learning-based materials
  • Wagons
*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page to be considered for the position*

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The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute an employment contract and does not guarantee employment for any specified period. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.
At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.