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Zoo Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Houston Zoo Career Fair

Houston, TX · On-site

... administration, and more! Our partners with SSA Group , who support food, beverage, and retail operations at the Houston Zoo, will also be joining us to share information about opportunities with ...

houstonzoo

Houston Zoo Career Fair

Houston, TX

... administration, and more! Our partners with SSA Group , who support food, beverage, and retail operations at the Houston Zoo, will also be joining us to share information about opportunities with ...

houstonzoo

Houston Zoo Career Fair

Houston, TX · On-site

... administration, and more! Our partners with SSA Group , who support food, beverage, and retail operations at the Houston Zoo, will also be joining us to share information about opportunities with ...

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Zoo Administration information

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$11

$22

$43

How much do zoo administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in zoo administration?

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.

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 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.

More about Zoo Administration jobs

What cities are hiring for Zoo Administration jobs?

Cities with the most Zoo Administration job openings:

What states have the most Zoo Administration jobs?

States with the most job openings for Zoo Administration jobs include:

What are popular job titles for Zoo Administration?

Popular job titles for Zoo Administration:

Zoo Administration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Administration job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,070 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Zoo Keeper III - Ectotherms

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Chattanooga Zoo
Museums and Historical Sites • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Chattanooga Zooexternal

$17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

We're expanding! The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an exceptional zookeeper with a passion for working with reptiles and amphibians to join our ectotherm team. The ectotherm collection includes several species of chelonians (Aldabra tortoises, Forsten's tortoises, Radiated tortoises, Roti Island Snake Neck Turtles, Spider tortoises, etc), snakes (Burmese python, Bushmaster, Gaboon Viper, Santa Catalina Island Rattlesnakes, Eastern Indigo Snake, etc), lizards (Komodo Dragon, Giant Horned Lizards, Beaded Lizards, etc), American and Chinese Alligators, and amphibians (Panamanian Golden Frogs, Eastern Hellbender, Dart Frogs, etc). 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.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 QualificationsBachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similarMust have 5 years experience with professional animal care at an AZA accredited facility or comparable institution to be consideredKnowledge of exotic animal care in a zoo settingVenomous handling experience preferredExperience in an AZA accredited institution is preferredAny combination of equivalent education and experience to successfully perform the essential functions of the position will be consideredOpen availability is required. The candidate will be expected to work weekends and holidays as the animal care schedule necessitates. 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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