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Zoo Accounting Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

For more than 30 years, we have partnered with leading theme parks, museums, science centers, zoos ... What You'll Do Project Accounting & Financial Operations: * Monitor and reconcile project budgets ...

Accounts Payable Specialist

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

The Accounts Payable position is in the Accounting Department working closely with all facets of ... From sports events to TopGolf and family days at the Cincinnati Zoo - we work hard AND we play hard ...

Zoo Accounting information

What does a zoo accountant do?

A zoo accountant is responsible for managing the financial records and transactions of a zoo. This includes budgeting, preparing financial reports, overseeing payroll, handling invoices, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Zoo accountants may also work on fundraising reports and help manage grants or donations. Their work is vital for maintaining the financial health of the zoo and supporting its educational and conservation missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoo accountant?

To thrive as a Zoo Accountant, you need a solid background in accounting principles, financial analysis, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in accounting or finance. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks or Sage, as well as proficiency in Excel and knowledge of nonprofit or government financial regulations, are typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate financial tracking, compliance, and informed decision-making that support the zoo's operational and conservation goals.

What are some common challenges faced by accounting professionals working in a zoo environment?

Accounting professionals in a zoo setting often manage unique challenges such as handling diverse revenue streams (ticket sales, memberships, donations, and grants), tracking restricted funds for conservation programs, and ensuring compliance with non-profit regulations. Additionally, they may need to collaborate closely with animal care, education, and development teams to align financial planning with operational needs. Adapting to the seasonal nature of zoo attendance and budgeting for unpredictable expenses like animal care emergencies are also frequent aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Zoo Accounting vs Zoo Finance?

AspectZoo AccountingZoo Finance
Required CredentialsAccounting certifications (e.g., CPA), relevant degreesFinance certifications (e.g., CFA), relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, administrative, and record-keeping tasksFinancial analysis, budgeting, and investment planning
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizationsZoos, conservation agencies, nonprofit organizations

Zoo Accounting focuses on managing financial records, budgeting, and compliance within zoo organizations. Zoo Finance involves broader financial planning, investment analysis, and financial strategy for zoo operations. While both roles require financial credentials and work in similar environments, Zoo Accounting is more about record-keeping, whereas Zoo Finance emphasizes strategic financial management.

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Accounting jobs in Ohio?

For Zoo Accounting jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Zoo Accounting jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Zoo Accounting job openings:

Infographic showing various Zoo Accounting job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Guest Strategy Support - Data and Revenue - Zoo

Cleveland Metroparks

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Cleveland Metroparks rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

The Revenue Associate assists with the collection and reconciliation of revenue within Zoo Guest Services and ensures that processes are in compliance with Cleveland Metroparks accounting manual. They perform a variety of accounting and administrative functions in a confidential manner.

  1. Provides excellent customer support to zoo guests for general inquiries, ticket sales, education offerings, and special event sales.
  2. Specialty tasks include coverage for cash room operations, the Guest Resource Center, and other areas as assigned.
  3. Executes day-to-day back of house operations including but not limited to:
    • Ticket order support and pre-arranged tickets for will call pick up
    • Answering calls and emails on behalf of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
    • Data entry and updating daily reports
    • Cash handling
  4. Specialty areas of focus for cash room operations: Data and revenue reconciliation on a daily basis. Compiles and maintains financial and statistical records and division reports. Collects, reconciles, and tracks the performance of revenue generating programs. Assists with performing internal audit of systems and users.
  5. Specialty areas of focus for resource center operations: Accessibility and accommodation requests pertaining to Zoo visits. Payment collection. Assists with processing the intake of deliveries and pick up of packages. Assists with lost and found services.
    Receives and provides resolutions for guest complaints: Receives and resolves guest grievances and/or involves the appropriate zoo staff to resolve; receives guest complaints and involves appropriate zoo staff. Refers all unresolved complaints to the Guest Strategy Manager.
  6. Maintain the highest level of knowledge on Zoo programs, admissions, guest services information, and discounts, coupons and promotions pertaining to special admissions or special events.
  7. Keeps direct supervisor promptly informed of key/significant issues or concerns.
  8. Carries out duties and responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner to maintain a safe work environment and surrounding area for oneself, co-workers and public. Responds to hazardous situations and/or potentially unsafe conditions by taking corrective action as capable and promptly notifying supervisory personnel.
  9. Performs administrative support tasks as requested (e.g. preparing bank deposits, assisting with special projects, and filing)
  10. Follows protocols and effectively communicates during emergency situations. May require emergency communications to police/fire/EMS.
  11. Performs related duties as assigned or apparent.
  • High school diploma or GED required. At least one year of customer service or cash handling experience preferred or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
  • Valid driver's license under the laws of the State of Ohio preferred.
  • Ability to perform with considerable independence and initiative.
  • Ability to learn and navigate current ticketing sales software. Demonstrated ability and desire to rapidly learn new skills.
  • Intermediate PC skills and proficiency in software programs including all Microsoft Office programs.
  • Effectively communicates during face-to-face, phone, email, and other interactions.
  • Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, including employees and the general public.
  • Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation with ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings.
  • Ability to perform work with a high degree of accuracy and organization.
  • Strong business acumen, including problem solving, ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines, collaboration, ability to follow directions, and ability to analyze diverse facts and develop clear and concise reports and recommendations.
  • Ability to work cooperatively with others.
  • Mature professional attitude and considerable discretion, including ability to manage confidential information.
  • Ability to perform with considerable independence and initiative. Performs role with precision and the highest level of attention to detail while performing data entry.
  • Ability to follow protocols during high-stress or emergency situations.
  • Experience with financial reconciliation, data entry/report maintenance, and customer service preferred.
  • Ability to uphold the high standards of Cleveland Metroparks by actions, appearance and attitude at all times and in all places.

Work Schedule:Must be available to work a flexible schedule to include days, evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

Application Deadline:Open until filled.


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