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Zoo Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Monitorguest behavior to ensure their safety at the Zoo; ensure guest safety at alltimes. * Performduties in coordination with administration staff; report any issues, supplyneeds, and necessary ...

City of El Paso, TX

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Zoo Management, Veterinary Medicine, Business or Public Administration, or a related field, and six (6) years of zoological operations experience, including four (4) ...

City of El Paso

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX

$100K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Zoo Management, Veterinary Medicine, Business or Public Administration, or a related field, and six (6) years of zoological operations experience, including four (4) ...

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD

Monitorguest behavior to ensure their safety at the Zoo; ensure guest safety at alltimes. * Performduties in coordination with administration staff; report any issues, supplyneeds, and necessary ...

Chattanooga Zoo

Events Coordinator

Chattanooga, TN

The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an energetic person to be our Events Coordinator. The incumbent ... Two (2) years of college coursework in business management, nonprofit administration, hospitality ...

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Be Seen First

Director of Education

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$65K - $72K/yr

Essential Duties & Specific Program Responsibilities Camp Administration & Seasonal Programming * Summer Zoo Camp Oversight: Direct the operational planning, curriculum design, and safe execution of ...

Chattanooga Zoo

Events Coordinator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$20/hr

The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an energetic person to be our Events Coordinator. The incumbent ... Two (2) years of college coursework in business management, nonprofit administration, hospitality ...

Chattanooga Zoo

Events Coordinator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$20/hr

The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an energetic person to be our Events Coordinator. The incumbent ... Two (2) years of college coursework in business management, nonprofit administration, hospitality ...

Denver Zoo

Director of Clinical Medicine

Denver, CO

$82K - $112K/yr

... and administration of the Zoo's preventative medicine program. * Schedule and coordinate appointments and procedures, including developing and fostering relationships with outside clinical ...

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Zoo Administration information

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$43

How much do zoo administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo administration in the United States is $22.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in zoo administration?

Zoo administration professionals often navigate the complexities of balancing operational efficiency with animal welfare, visitor satisfaction, and regulatory compliance. Challenges can include coordinating between diverse departments such as animal care, education, marketing, and facilities, as well as managing budgets and fundraising efforts. Additionally, adapting to evolving standards in animal care and public expectations requires ongoing professional development and collaboration with external agencies. Effective communication, flexibility, and problem-solving are essential for success in this dynamic environment.

What qualifications do you need to work at the zoo?

Zoo administration roles typically require a bachelor's degree in fields such as zoology, biology, or animal science, along with experience in management or administrative positions. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of animal care standards, and familiarity with zoo operations are also important qualifications.

What is the difference between Zoo Administration vs Zoo Keeper?

AspectZoo AdministrationZoo Keeper
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in zoology, wildlife management, or related field; often some management trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training or certifications in animal care
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, administrative meetings, strategic planningAnimal enclosures, outdoor habitats, hands-on animal care
Employer & Industry UsageZoo management, administrative roles within zoological parksAnimal care departments, zoological parks, wildlife centers

Zoo Administration focuses on managing zoo operations, strategic planning, and staff oversight, requiring management skills and relevant degrees. Zoo Keepers are responsible for daily animal care, feeding, and habitat maintenance, requiring animal handling skills and certifications. Both roles are essential in a zoo but differ significantly in responsibilities and work environment.

What is zoo administration?

Zoo administration refers to the management and oversight of zoo operations, including budgeting, staffing, animal welfare, education programs, and visitor services. Professionals in this field are responsible for ensuring that the zoo meets regulatory standards and provides a safe, engaging environment for both animals and guests. Zoo administrators also play a key role in strategic planning, fundraising, and community outreach to support the zoo's mission and long-term sustainability.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In zoo administration, high-level roles such as zoo directors or executive administrators can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially in large or private institutions. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve overseeing operations, budgets, and staff management. Salaries vary based on the size of the zoo, location, and organizational structure.

What is the highest paying job in a zoo?

The highest paying job in a zoo is typically the zoo director or executive director, who oversees all operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees in management or related fields, and can earn six-figure salaries. Other high-paying positions include senior curators and specialized veterinarians with advanced certifications.

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

To thrive in Zoo Administration, you need strong organizational, leadership, and financial management skills, usually supported by a degree in business, zoology, or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, animal management databases, and compliance systems is often required. Effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are essential soft skills for coordinating staff and engaging with the public. These abilities are crucial for ensuring smooth operations, regulatory compliance, and positive visitor and animal welfare outcomes.

Is it hard to get hired at the zoo?

Getting hired for a zoo administration position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in zoology, wildlife management, or a related field, along with experience in organizational or administrative roles. Strong communication skills, knowledge of zoo operations, and sometimes certifications are also beneficial for securing a position.
More about Zoo Administration jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Administration jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Administration job openings:
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Zoo Administration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Administration job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,070 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Zoo Keeper I - Swing Keeper

Chattanooga Zoo

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an exceptional zookeeper with a passion for working with exotic animals. The ideal candidate will perform routine animal husbandry duties to maintain the care and well-being of the animals. This position is responsible for the daily care of animals in a given area, including the administration of regular food, water, and medication for individual animals. Will also be responsible for training and enrichment with all animals in the area. This position is responsible for maintaining area compliance with USDA and AZA regulations and standards. This is a swing keeper position that will rotate through multiple areas during the work week.
Animal Care Duties will include day to day husbandry, daily log reports regarding the animals, routine maintenance of physical area and enclosures, assisting in veterinary procedures and medication distribution to animals, maintain training and enrichment programs, assist with special projects, etc. Keeper must be able to maintain area compliance with USDA and AZA regulations and standards, including record keeping, husbandry care, training, enrichment, etc. For a complete list of roles and responsibilities, please see Full Job Description below.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similar
  • One (1) year experience in animal care is required
  • Knowledge of exotic animal care is preferred
  • Experience in an AZA accredited institution is preferred
  • Any combination of equivalent education and experience to successfully perform the essential functions of the position will be considered
  • Open availability is required. Incumbent will be expected to work weekends and holidays as the animal care schedule necessitates.

The Chattanooga Zoo has adopted a smoke-free campus to serve as a leader in promoting a healthy workplace and environment.
The Chattanooga Zoo is a member of the Tennessee Drug-Free Workplace program. This position requires pre-employment screenings which will include: a background check, credit check, drug screen & tuberculin skin test.
The Friends of the Zoo, Inc (Chattanooga Zoo) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Zoo will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

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