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Zoo Design Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Horticulturist

Akron, OH

$20.89 - $24.75/hr

Pesticide license is preferred (or must be willing to obtain license within 6 months - zoo paid ... Meet park's landscaping plan and original design specifications. * Ability to organize, prioritize ...

Exhibit Design Director

Dublin, OH · 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 ...

Horticulturist

Akron, OH · On-site

$20.89 - $24.75/hr

Pesticide license is preferred (or must be willing to obtain license within 6 months - zoo paid ... Meet park's landscaping plan and original design specifications. * Ability to organize, prioritize ...

Horticulturist

Akron, OH · On-site

$20.89 - $24.75/hr

Pesticide license is preferred (or must be willing to obtain license within 6 months - zoo paid ... Meet park's landscaping plan and original design specifications. * Ability to organize, prioritize ...

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 · 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 Cook

Columbus, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/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 Dishwasher

Powell, OH · On-site

$12.50 - $16/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 ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Cook

Columbus, OH

$16.25 - $20.75/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 ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Server

Columbus, OH · 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 ...

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 · 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

Powell, OH · 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 ...

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 Dishwasher

Powell, OH · On-site

$12.50 - $16/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 ...

Columbus Zoo Catering Server

Powell, OH · 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Zoo Design information

See Ohio salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do zoo design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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 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 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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Zoo Design job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,349 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

$20.89 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Akron Zoo rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Description

This position possesses skills and knowledge for maintaining the grounds and landscaped areas and does so with minimum to moderate supervision. Must possess and be able to apply a good working knowledge of all aspects of horticulture. Planting, mulching, pruning, and general maintenance of flowerbeds and plantings is required. Must be able to perform required park cleanliness tasks such as litter removal and blow downs with minimum supervision. Attention to detail is necessary. At least 1-2 years' experience working in a public garden, zoological park or similar facility is preferred. College degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, botany, or related field preferred. Pesticide license is preferred (or must be willing to obtain license within 6 months - zoo paid training).  

Requirements


  • Regular maintenance and installation of gardens, landscaped areas, exhibits, and planters. Eliminate overgrowth and manage natural areas.
  • Evaluate and work with Senior Facilities & Grounds Manager to correct problems with flora related diseases and pests. Work closely with staff and contractor on pest and insect control as needed. 
  • Application of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.
  • Responsible for lawn maintenance. 
  • Removal of snow and ice. 
  • Responsible for installation of plants to ensure success of growth. Meet park's landscaping plan and original design specifications. 
  • Ability to organize, prioritize, and execute safely and efficiently both routine and non-routine work assignments. 
  • Operate equipment such as tractors, high lifts, forklifts, trucks, and carts. 
  • Maintain outdoor areas of park as appropriate to ensure a safe and pleasant guest experience. 
  • Responsible for generation of work requests/and track completion/quality of all assigned work required. 
  • Provide input into annual landscape plan.
  • Maintain accurate records as needed. 

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Therefore, this employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by his/her immediate supervisor. The Akron Zoo reserves the right to revise and change job duties as business requirements dictate.


The Akron Zoo is a Drug-Free Workplace and an EOE. Valid Ohio driver's license required.  


This is a Full-time, Non-Exempt, Collective Bargaining position with benefits. Hourly pay for this position ranges from $20.89 - $24.75 based on experience as per union contract. Normal operation hours are Tuesday - Saturday 6:00am-3:00pm with Sunday and Monday as the days off. This position may include working some weekends, holidays, and evenings. Open until filled. Age 18 or over to apply.


What Akron Zoo employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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