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Zoo Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Denver Zoo

Membership Manager

Denver, CO · On-site

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and ... Completion of, or progress toward, a two-year degree in nonprofit administration, communications ...

State of North Carolina

NC · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Description of Work The North Carolina Zoo is expanding, making this an exciting opportunity to join our team. We are seeking a dynamic, efficient, and enthusiastic individual to serve as a Seasonal ...

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How much do zoo administration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 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 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.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Zoo Administration jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Administration jobs are:
Zoo Administration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Administration job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 6% Full Time, 82% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,070 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

General Manager - Interactive Zoo & Aquarium

Keller Executive Search

Utica, MI • On-site

$78K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

General Manager - Interactive Zoo & Aquarium

Overview

An exciting opportunity has opened up for an experienced and people-focused General Manager to lead day-to-day operations at a fast-growing, mission-driven interactive zoo and aquarium in Michigan. This is not your typical zoo management role - the organization is built on hands-on, immersive guest experiences that forge real connections between people and wildlife.

Reporting directly to the owner and CEO, the General Manager will oversee multiple departments, drive operational excellence, and champion a culture of accountability, passion, and continuous learning. If you are a natural leader who thrives in dynamic, guest-centric environments and believes in the power of purpose-driven work - this role was built for you. This is a full-time, onsite, permanent position.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operational Leadership: Oversee all daily operations across the facility, ensuring consistently high standards in guest experience, animal care, education, staff performance, and safety.
  • Team Management: Directly supervise department managers across animal care, guest services, education, maintenance, and administration. Hold weekly check-ins, provide ongoing coaching, and lead performance development.
  • Guest Experience: Uphold and continuously elevate standards for guest satisfaction - this business lives and breathes exceptional visitor experiences.
  • Financial Oversight: Partner with the CEO to manage operating budgets, monitor expenses, forecast revenue, and identify opportunities for growth and cost efficiency.
  • Cross-Departmental Coordination: Ensure strong communication and collaboration across all departments, with unified messaging and shared goals.
  • Strategic Planning: Work alongside the CEO and marketing to identify ways to grow revenue, streamline operations, and bring new experiences to life.
  • Staffing & Scheduling: Manage time-off requests, publish schedules on time, maintain appropriate staffing levels, and support recruitment and onboarding.
  • Health, Safety & Compliance: Ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations (USDA, OSHA, local authorities). Lead safety drills and maintain documentation.
  • Inventory & Ordering: Conduct weekly inventory reviews and coordinate orders across departments.
  • Reporting: Provide the CEO with regular updates on operational performance, challenges, and progress toward goals.
  • Mentorship & Culture: Actively mentor managers and emerging leaders, fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and growth.
  • Leading by Example: Be willing and able to be trained to step onto the floor and work directly with the public and exotic animals, including large reptiles, when needed.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 3 years of management experience overseeing teams of 50 or more employees in a similarly sized or complex operation
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop a multi-department management team
  • Strong skills in delegation, multitasking, and managing competing priorities across a fast-paced environment
  • Proven track record in guest-experience-driven environments where service and satisfaction are central to the business model
  • Comfortable working in a hands-on, high-energy environment with animals and the public
  • Available to work full-time including weekends and holidays (approximately 50-55 hours per week)
  • Criminal background check clearance required
  • Willingness to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) upon appointment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Background in zoos, aquariums, wildlife education, hospitality, attractions, theme parks, or other high-volume, experience-driven industries
  • Experience working in a growing or scaling organization where structure and process were still being built
  • Passion for wildlife, animal education, or environmental connection
  • Experience managing cross-functional teams across service, operations, and care disciplines

Benefits

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $78,000 USD per year, paid weekly Employment Type:

Permanent, Full-Time Location: Onsite (Schedule: Includes weekends and holidays)

401(k)

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