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Zoo Design Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Exhibit Design Director

Dublin, OH ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Roto is seeking an experienced Design Director to lead multidisciplinary teams in the design and development of museums, aquariums, zoos, science centers, cultural attractions, and other experience ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Cook

Powell, OH ยท On-site

$17 - $20/hr

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together admissions ...

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together admissions ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Server

Columbus, OH

$15 - $19.25/hr

SERVER - CATERING For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Server

Powell, OH ยท On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

SERVER - CATERING For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Cook

Powell, OH

$16 - $20.50/hr

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together admissions ...

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together admissions ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Server

Powell, OH ยท On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

SERVER - CATERING For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Server

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

SERVER - CATERING For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Server

Columbus, OH

$15 - $19.25/hr

SERVER - CATERING For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together ...

Columbus Zoo Warehouse Associate

Powell, OH

$15.25 - $18/hr

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We bring together admissions ...

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Zoo Design information

See Ohio salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do zoo design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo design in Ohio is $26.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Zoo Design vs Zoo Architect?

AspectZoo DesignZoo Architect
CredentialsDesign degrees, landscape architecture, zoological expertiseArchitecture degrees, licensing, landscape architecture
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, zoos, outdoor and indoor planningArchitectural firms, zoos, outdoor projects
Industry UsageUsed interchangeably with Zoo Architect in some contextsMore formal licensing, broader architectural responsibilities

Zoo Design and Zoo Architect roles often overlap, but Zoo Architects typically hold professional licenses and focus on the structural aspects of zoo projects. Zoo Design may encompass broader planning and conceptual work, sometimes without formal licensing. Both roles are essential in creating functional, engaging zoo environments, but Zoo Architects usually have a more formalized credentialing process.

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

To thrive in Zoo Design, you need a solid background in architecture, landscape architecture, or zoological design, often supported by a relevant degree and professional licensure. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and knowledge of animal welfare standards are typically required. Creativity, strong collaboration, and problem-solving skills distinguish top professionals in this field. These competencies are crucial for creating functional, enriching, and sustainable habitats that prioritize animal well-being and visitor experience.

What is zoo design?

Zoo design is the process of planning and creating zoo environments that are safe and enriching for animals while providing educational and engaging experiences for visitors. It incorporates principles from architecture, landscape design, animal welfare, and sustainability to develop habitats that mimic natural environments. Good zoo design focuses on animal health, behavioral needs, and conservation, while also considering visitor flow and educational opportunities. The goal is to balance animal well-being with public engagement and conservation messaging.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in zoo design, and how can they be addressed?

Zoo design professionals often encounter challenges balancing animal welfare, visitor experience, and operational efficiency. Meeting evolving animal care standards while creating engaging, educational spaces can require innovative solutions and close collaboration with animal care staff, architects, and engineers. Additionally, they must navigate regulatory requirements and budget constraints throughout the design and construction phases. Staying up-to-date with best practices and maintaining open communication with stakeholders are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful project outcomes.
What job categories do people searching Zoo Design jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Design jobs in Ohio are:
Infographic showing various Zoo Design job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,349 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Exhibit Design Director

Roto-Group-LLC

Dublin, OH โ€ข On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Roto is seeking an experienced Design Director to lead multidisciplinary teams in the design and development of museums, aquariums, zoos, science centers, cultural attractions, and other experience-driven environments. This role provides creative leadership from early concept and master planning through detailed design, while mentoring team members and collaborating closely with clients and internal disciplines to deliver engaging, thoughtfully designed experiences.What You'll DoAs a Design Director, you'll lead multidisciplinary teams through every phase of the creative processโ€”from early visioning and master planning through detailed design and implementation. At Roto, youโ€™ll:Lead the creative vision for multiple exhibit and experience design projects.Guide teams of exhibit designers, graphic designers, writers, producers, and technical specialists.Develop compelling concepts that balance storytelling, visitor engagement, operational needs, and budget.Create sketches, plans, diagrams, models, and presentations that communicate design intent.Present ideas directly to clients and facilitate collaborative design conversations.Mentor and develop emerging designers while fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and design excellence.Balance multiple projects while keeping an eye on quality, schedule, and resources.Help shape not only great projectsโ€”but a great design studio.What We're Looking ForThe ideal candidate combines strong design skills with experience leading multidisciplinary teams, mentoring designers, and delivering thoughtful, high-quality work across a variety of project types. Ideally, you have:10+ years of experience in exhibit design, environmental design, architecture, experiential design, or a related field.A portfolio demonstrating exceptional spatial thinking, storytelling, and visitor-centered design.Experience leading multidisciplinary creative teams.Confidence presenting ideas to clients and facilitating design discussions.Strong conceptual thinking balanced with practical execution.Experience mentoring designers and helping others grow.Proficiency with tools such as SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD and/or Revit. #J-18808-Ljbffr