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The Zoo Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Akron Zoo

Program Engagement Staff

Akron, OH

$35K - $42K/yr

Description The Akron Zoo is looking for Program Engagement Staff. Core responsibilities include guiding students and teachers through the zoo while giving information about animal adaptations and ...

Maryland Zoo

Commissary Keeper

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$19.20/hr

Additionally, the Commissary Keeperwill support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustainability, conservation ...

Minot Park District

Zookeeper

Minot, ND · On-site

The Roosevelt Park Zoo is currently seeing qualified applicants for a full time Zookeeper. Responsible for the daily care of animals, exhibits, and grounds in areas of the Zoo as assigned to the ...

Dallas Zoo

General Application - Animal Health

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

The Dallas Zoo's Animal Health teams work together to ensure the welfare of nearly 2,000 animals representing around 400 diverse species. Our professionals combine veterinary expertise, precise ...

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The Zoo information

What is the difference between The Zoo vs Animal Keeper?

AspectThe ZooAnimal Keeper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may enhance prospectsSimilar; often requires relevant certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentPublic, educational, and conservation-focused setting within a zooHands-on animal care in zoo or sanctuary environments
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizationsZoos, animal sanctuaries, wildlife centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsJob duties, qualifications, and work environment

Both The Zoo and Animal Keeper roles involve caring for animals in similar settings like zoos and wildlife centers. While The Zoo may refer broadly to the organization or facility, Animal Keeper is a specific job title focused on daily animal care. Candidates interested in working with animals in such environments should consider the required credentials and work environment when exploring these roles.

What is a zoo worker?

Zoo workers are professionals who are responsible for the care, management, and education of animals housed in zoos. Their duties can include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, assisting veterinarians, and educating the public about wildlife and conservation. Zoo workers may have various job titles, such as zookeepers, animal care specialists, educators, or curators. They play a crucial role in promoting animal welfare and supporting conservation efforts in both local and global contexts.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeepers when working with a diverse range of animal species?

Zookeepers often encounter challenges related to managing the unique needs of various animal species, such as providing appropriate diets, enrichment, and healthcare routines. Each species may have specific behavioral patterns and environmental requirements, demanding adaptability and close attention to detail from the keeper. Additionally, zookeepers must work collaboratively with veterinarians and other animal care staff to monitor animal health and ensure enclosures meet safety standards. Effective communication and ongoing learning are essential to successfully navigate these complexities and provide the best care for zoo residents.

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

To thrive as a Zookeeper, you need a background in animal science or biology, hands-on animal care experience, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with animal management software, feeding protocols, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the well-being of animals, facilitate educational outreach, and support smooth daily operations within the zoo environment.
More about The Zoo jobs
What cities are hiring for The Zoo jobs? Cities with the most The Zoo job openings:
What states have the most The Zoo jobs? States with the most job openings for The Zoo jobs include:
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The Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various The Zoo job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Senior Zoologist - Children's Zoo/Carnivores

Dallas Zoo

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Dallas Zoo rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

JOB SUMMARY
This is a senior-level position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding
animal care for species in the section: food preparation, feeding, exhibit maintenance, pest control, and reproductive management. Zoologists participate in operant conditioning and husbandry programs, provide approved environmental enrichment, work collaboratively to improve animal exhibits, and prepare and conduct educational presentations and tours for zoo guests. Senior Zoologists may act as team leaders on specific projects, as assigned, and provide crucial guidance and training to less senior staff.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide overall daily care of assigned animals and exhibits to ensure animal health, safety, and
welfare, staff and public safety as set forth by AZA, USDA, and DZM to include:
Observe and monitor animals' general health and behavior, reporting any abnormal behavior to
manager and/or veterinary staff;
Prepare and provide food for assigned animals, following written instructions, provide water and
administer medication as instructed to ensure proper nutrition and health;
Clean animal exhibits, holding pens, food prep areas, and equipment, maintaining a high level of
sanitation, conducting pest control activities and reporting any mechanical defects that would
endanger the animal, zoo staff, and/or guests;
Achieve the highest standards of animal welfare and wellness by providing environmental
enrichment and training sessions, using operant conditioning, as applicable;
Participate in or assist with the capture and restraint of a variety of taxa including dangerous
species
Prepare and update animal records, reports and surveys, assisting in research projects as necessaryto ensure thorough documentation and enhanced knowledge of animal biology;
Perform general maintenance and repair of exhibits: painting, repairing fences and shelters, abatingerosion, planting ground cover and removing weeds;
Provide assistance with animal transfers and/or procedures as directed;
Interact positively and professionally with animal care and veterinary staff and volunteers;
Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interaction with zoo guests via educational
presentations focused on animals, biology, conservation, and environmental issues;
Utilize the enrichment item/device proposal form to create new enrichment ideas and items to be
added to taxa repertoires and properly record the results of enrichment items after each use;
Collaborate with other zoo personnel as needed to meet the zoo's mission. This can include, but is
not limited to, assisting and participating in media events, special tours, and public relations projects;
Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups;
Understand and support Dallas Zoo's Strategic and Master Plans and departmental collection plans;
Study specific reference materials pertinent to animal care, behavior and natural history as assigned;
Follow all safety protocols and understand the animal keeper's role in emergency procedures,
responding to emergencies as required;
Be able to supervise and train volunteers and interns within department as needed; eligible to act asan assigned mentor to interns and volunteers responsible for counseling, coaching, and ensuring
follow up on assigned intern/volunteer goals
Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris whenever you see it;
Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs;
Eligible to serve in Chair positions on Dallas Zoo Management internal committees
Perform other duties as assigned.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field plus four years of paid animal care experience is required; A Bachelor's degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field plus three years of paid animal care experience is preferred;
Must have knowledge of animal care and basic husbandry skills, and at least three years preferred of exotic animal care experience at an AZA-accredited facility (ideally with carnivores);
Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player, and solution-oriented: finding creative
solutions to complex challenges;
Must have basic knowledge of research techniques and practices, with solid observation skills;
Must be capable of practicing, or willing to learn, safe methods of capture and restraint for a variety
of taxa (which may include potentially dangerous species);
Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees,
interns, volunteers, and zoo guests;
Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, following instructions and
documenting animal care activities appropriately;
Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with management, other employees & zoo guests;
Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs
and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs;
Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required;
Regular, reliable and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position;
Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot or inclement weather;
Successful candidates must complete pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB
test;
Must have a valid driver's license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by
personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned.
Employment Type: Full-Time

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