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Wildlife Health Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Denver Zoo

Director of Clinical Medicine

Denver, CO · On-site

$82K - $112K/yr

Collaborate with the Senior Director of Wildlife Health & Conservation and Director of Veterinary Operations on the development and implementation of the Zoo's veterinary program and policies.

Denver Zoo

Director of Clinical Medicine

Denver, CO · On-site

$82K - $112K/yr

Collaborate with the Senior Director of Wildlife Health & Conservation and Director of Veterinary Operations on the development and implementation of the Zoo's veterinary program and policies.

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Wildlife Health information

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$25K

$64.9K

$127K

How much do wildlife health jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildlife health in the United States is $64,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Wildlife Health vs Wildlife Veterinarian?

AspectWildlife HealthWildlife Veterinarian
Required CredentialsDegree in wildlife biology, ecology, or related fields; often requires additional certifications in wildlife managementDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent; veterinary licensing
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural habitats, research facilities, conservation projectsWildlife clinics, zoos, research labs, field rescues
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, research institutionsVeterinary clinics, wildlife rehabilitation centers, zoos

Wildlife Health professionals focus on the overall health and disease management of wild animal populations, often through research and conservation efforts. Wildlife Veterinarians are licensed vets who diagnose and treat individual wild animals, working directly in clinical settings or field rescues. While both roles aim to protect wildlife, Wildlife Health emphasizes population health and disease prevention, whereas Wildlife Veterinarians focus on individual animal care.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in wildlife health, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in wildlife health often encounter challenges such as working in remote or unpredictable environments, managing zoonotic disease risks, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders like conservationists, veterinarians, and government agencies. Adapting to fieldwork conditions, maintaining safety protocols, and staying updated with the latest research are essential. Building strong communication skills and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration can help overcome these obstacles and contribute to effective wildlife health management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in wildlife health, and why are they important?

To thrive in Wildlife Health, you need a background in veterinary medicine, ecology, or biology, often with advanced degrees and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, laboratory techniques, and data management systems is typically required, along with certifications in wildlife handling or disease surveillance. Strong problem-solving, observation skills, and the ability to communicate findings clearly make professionals stand out in this field. These skills are crucial for effectively monitoring animal populations, managing disease outbreaks, and supporting conservation efforts.

What is wildlife health?

Wildlife health refers to the study and management of the physical well-being and diseases of wild animals in their natural habitats. Professionals in this field monitor wildlife populations, investigate disease outbreaks, and work to prevent the spread of illnesses between wild animals, domestic animals, and humans. Wildlife health is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem balance, and preventing zoonotic diseases that can impact public health.
More about Wildlife Health jobs
What cities are hiring for Wildlife Health jobs? Cities with the most Wildlife Health job openings:
What states have the most Wildlife Health jobs? States with the most job openings for Wildlife Health jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wildlife Health jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wildlife Health jobs are:
Wildlife Health jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildlife Health job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,945 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Molecular Diagnostics Technician I - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Escondido, CA • On-site

$37.13/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago

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 Molecular Diagnostics Technician I is responsible for carrying out laboratory activities, molecular based diagnostics for infectious disease for internal and external customers, and/or training initiatives in various areas of wildlife health and conservation research. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Conservation Science Wildlife Health department.
WHAT YOU WILL DO

  • Conducts daily molecular based diagnostic, research, and training activities including accessioning and processing of samples, and reporting results for diagnostic submissions within the diagnostic turnaround time. Responds to emergency testing needs on a case by case basis.
  • Coordinates processing of samples with coworkers. reviews results and performs additional tests, adjusts protocols, or refers questionable findings for review as needed. Responds to customer inquiries or refers them to the supervisor.
  • Collects, records, and analyzes data utilizing spreadsheet and database systems. Prepares assigned custom reports for daily diagnostics, ongoing research, and government reporting.
  • Assists in developing, updating, and implementing a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, educational and/or field protocols, depending on the assignment. Assist in assay development and optimization.
  • Document, file, and maintain records. Keeps track of laboratory supplies and prepares orders as needed to maintain a stock.
  • Assures laboratory equipment is properly maintained and calibrated. Performs quality control and troubleshoots equipment problems.


WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
The Disease Investigations (DI) Department (Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance) is looking for a molecular diagnostics technician I to join our Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory at the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, CA. Initially, the position will focus on diagnostic services, including processing biological or environmental samples, performing real-time PCR and conventional PCR assays, analyzing sequencing data, and preparing diagnostic reports. Over time, there may be opportunities to also contribute to conservation research projects. Experience with molecular assay design and development, next generation sequencing, and bioinformatics is preferred.
JOB EXPERIENCE

  • 2 years of laboratory/diagnostic experience required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's Degree in the biological sciences or a related field or equivalent specialized training required.
  • Master's Degree in the biological sciences or a related field of equivalent training is preferred.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

  • Trained in methodology and equipment used in the assigned area of research/diagnostics.
  • Proficient in data and record keeping.
  • Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs.
  • Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Able to work effectively with others in a diverse environment.


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 Position
  • Hourly Rate: $37.13

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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