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Zoo Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Living Desert

Gardens Curator

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Develops short and long term goals and strategies, makes recommendations to Zoo administration regarding acquisitions, dispositions and relevance to overall Zoo objectives including conservation and ...

City of Bloomington, IL

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K/yr

Miller Park Zoo - 1020 S. Morris Ave, Bloomington, IL Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 01054 ... the administration of medical treatments including oral, topical and injectable medications ...

City of Bloomington Illinois

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL

$50K/yr

... the administration of medical treatments including oral, topical and injectable medications ... Chair or sit as a member of various zoo committees as assigned. Participate in the development and ...

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 · 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) ...

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Zoo Administration information

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How much do zoo administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 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.
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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, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,070 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
ZOO MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN - 0126

ZOO MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN - 0126

City of Greenville, SC

Greenville, SC • On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Salary : $41,288.00 - $52,312.00 Annually
Location : 150 Cleveland Park Drive - Greenville, SC
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 01446
Department: GREENVILLE ZOO
Division: ZOO ADMINISTRATION
Opening Date: 01/12/2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Brief Description
Job SummaryUnder regular direction and in compliance with standard operating procedures and policies, performs multi-trade work in the construction, renovation, installation, maintenance, and repair of the Zoo's facilities and exhibits to ensure the safety of animals, staff, and the public. Constructs, repairs, and renovates new and/or existing buildings and exhibits. Performs basic repairs and preventive maintenance on Zoo property or facility equipment and systems, including plumbing and electrical systems. Maintains grounds including cleaning walkways, mowing lawn, applying pesticide, pruning, and planting. Collaborates with affected staff to design and construct and/or fabricate structures and mechanisms. Supports Zoo operations by performing a wide range of maintenance and basic administrative tasks. Participates in special events and rentals by assisting in coordinating and implementing logistics from set-up through break-down.
Job Duties
Essential Functions Essential Functions % of Time
  • Perform Facility Maintenance and Repairs: Obtain and complete work order requests. Receive plans, make material list, and acquire materials. Build necessary walls, doorways, windows in conformance to building codes and standards. Install drywall and perform painting. Replace or repair broken equipment, tools, fences, or water lines. Identify water leaks, isolate, expose pipes and make repairs. Make plumbing repairs/replacements to faucets, spigots, and hydrants; clear storm, sanitary-sewer, and localized drains along walkways, in exhibits and restrooms, and multiple buildings. Install temporary lighting as needed. Repair damage to buildings or exhibits constructed of wood or concrete. Patch walkways and roadways. Perform general upkeep on Zoo buildings' electrical systems. Install and repair electrical systems wiring, circuit breakers, equipment and other components so that they remain at full functioning capacity. Collaborate on exhibit design and construction including fabricating structures and mechanisms. Install wire mesh for caging and ensure security. Collaborate on construction projects for buildings and exhibits (e.g., set poles, hang mesh, install or repair sheet rock, paint, remove/replace pavers, etc.). Perform basic irrigation, plumbing, and concrete-work as needed. Change out filters for water sources and HVAC systems. Maintain fluorescent and floodlights, as well as install new lighting, fans, misters etc. Ensure restrooms are clean, fully stocked, and functioning properly. Maintain a safe work environment.
50%
  • Perform Grounds Maintenance: Maintain perimeter fence-line in accordance with established standards. Clean picnic areas, collect and empty trash, and maintain clean walkways. Plant trees and shrubs, mow, trim, over-seed, fertilize, mix soil and spread, water, aerate, and apply pesticide application for disease, weed, and insect control on turf, annuals, perennials, and shrubs. Install and remove plant material (annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs) during appropriate times of the year. Prepare soil and install sod on designated grass areas. Install mulch for trees, plants, and large designated areas. Remove dead or dangerous tree limbs. Remove snow and spread ice melt.
20%
  • Support Zoo Operations: Receive and unload large deliveries for gift shop, concession, animal commissary, education or construction materials and transport to appropriate location. Transport diverse materials to various animal areas. Maintain inventory for janitorial and maintenance related supplies. Coordinate car and bus parking. Train Animal Care staff in the proper use of tools and equipment for basic maintenance of animal exhibits. Collaborate on oil changes on mowers and other equipment requiring regular maintenance. Collaborate on maintaining gas for all vehicles, gas cans for equipment, and diesel for skid steer. Place orders for paper and plastic products.
20%
  • Perform Event Setup and Breakdown: Participate in events and general Zoo activities. Assist in coordinating and implementing logistics from set-up through break-down, including managing equipment and erecting structures as assigned. Provide electrical feed to meet event needs.
10%Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Job Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Over two (2) years of experience in facility maintenance (e.g. basic plumbing, electrical, and carpentry).
  • CPR, First Aid, and AED Certifications within one year of employment.
  • SC Non-Commercial Pesticide License (category 3) within six (6) months of employment.
Driver's License Requirements
  • Valid South Carolina Class D Driver's License.
Performance RequirementsKnowledge of:
  • Safe equipment operating practices and procedures.
  • Basic landscape and turn maintenance practices.
  • Basic electrical, plumbing, HVAC and carpentry repair.
Ability to:
  • Communicate clearly and train applicable staff in the proper use of tools and equipment for basic maintenance of animal exhibits.
  • Manage multiple projects and perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy.
  • Work in inclement weather conditions including cold rain, wind, heat, snow, sleet, etc.
  • Read, analyze, and interpret technical journals and procedures, blueprints, and schematics.
  • Deal with a system of real numbers; and practical application of fractions, percentages, ratios/proportions and measurement.
  • Write reports, summaries, and compose emails in a clear and professional manner.
  • Operate backpack blower, bobcat skid steer, skid loader, excavator, backhoe, front end loader, track hoe, tractor, utility vehicles, trucks, vans, lift-truck, air compressor, lawn mower, hedge trimmers, weed eater, chainsaw, drills (electric, pneumatic, and battery powered), saws, various power tools, hand tools (e.g., hammers, screwdrivers, wire-cutters, pliers, fence pliers, tin snips, hack saw, bow saw, etc.), and various landscape tools (e.g., rakes, shovels, hoes, axes, pitch forks, hand-pruners, loppers etc.), as well as cleaning supplies (e.g., mops, mop bucket, brooms, toilet brushes, and disinfectants).
  • Operate a portable radio, phone, and/or other communication devices.
  • Operate general office equipment to include scanner, printer, copier, telephone, and computer with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Utilize specialized software and systems to include work management system.

Other Information
Working ConditionsPrimary Work Location: Zoo maintenance shop and outdoors (Zoo grounds).Protective Equipment Required: Designated PPEs for restroom cleaning and maintenance work in primate areas. Safety glasses, gloves (rubber and others), ear protection, hard hat, chaps, climbing harness, respirators, welding helmets and apparel, safety vest, safety chaps, and steel-toed boots.Environmental/Health and Safety Factors:
Frequent exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Majority of work performed outside or with exposure to risk. Daily exposure to extreme temperatures and wetness and/or humidity. Weekly exposure to respiratory hazards, noise and vibration, and physical hazards. Constant exposure to mechanical hazards. Frequent exposure to chemical hazards. Occasional exposure to electrical hazards and fire hazards. Rare exposure to communicable diseases.Physical Demands:
Constantly requires standing, fine dexterity, walking, carrying, and hearing. Frequently requires lifting, reaching, kneeling, pushing/pulling, climbing, vision, balancing, bending, crouching and stooping, and talking. Occasionally requires handling/grasping, crawling, foot controls and twisting. Heavy strength demands include exerting 50-100 pounds occasionally, exerting 20-50 pounds frequently, or exerting up to 10-20 pounds constantly. Lifting animals, concrete mix, grain sacks, hay bales, lumber, and tents.Mental Demands:
Constantly requires frequent change of tasks. Frequently requires performing multiple tasks simultaneously, working closely with others as part of a team, and performing tedious or exacting work. Occasionally requires time pressures, emergency situations, and noisy/distracting environment.Americans with Disabilities Act ComplianceThe City of Greenville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Prospective and current employees should contact Human Resources to request an ADA accommodation.DisclaimerThe above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
The City of Greenville offers a comprehensive and affordable benefits package designed to provide a variety of choices to best fit the needs of our employees and their families. View more details about these benefits here:
HEALTH INSURANCE
The City offers the following health insurance options to eligible employees:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Basic Term Life
  • Employee Supplemental Life
  • Spouse Term Life
  • Child Term Life
  • Short Term Disability (STD)
  • Long Term Disability (LTD)
  • Voluntary Benefits (Critical Illness, Accident, Hospital Care, etc.)
All health insurance coverage is effective the first of the month following the employee's hire date except for LTD which is effective the 91st day following date of hire.
LEAVE & HOLIDAY BENEFITS
  • General Leave is earned/accrued biweekly by all regular, full-time and permanent part-time employees as a percentage of normal work hours.
  • The City of Greenville observes 11 paid holidays.
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
The City is a member of the South Carolina State (SCRS) and Police Officers (PORS) defined benefit Retirement Systems.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
  • Employee Recognition & Awards Program (ER&A)
  • Employee Service Awards
  • Longevity Bonus
OTHER BENEFITS & OPPORTUNITIES
  • Worker's Compensation
  • Deferred Compensation
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

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