ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zoo Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Face Painter

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$13.75/hr

... zoo as a Face Painter! Join our team to add vibrant colors and excitement. If you love working with kids, have an artistic flair, and enjoy creating themed designs, this role is your canvas. You will ...

John Ball Zoo

Facilities Maintenance II

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$22.04/hr

... their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. * Sufficient mathematical ability to mix cleaning ... Ability to interact positively and appropriately with coworkers, supervisors, managers, Zoo guests ...

LocumTenens

Clinical workflows are designed to support consistent and coordinated care delivery across medical ... the Air Zoo, as well as natural areas such as the Kalamazoo Nature Center and Kellogg Bird ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsZoo Designer JobsZoo Designer Jobs in Michigan

Zoo Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$5

$21

$49

How much do zoo designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo designer in Michigan is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.98 and $26.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo designer?

A Zoo Designer is a professional who plans and creates zoo exhibits and environments that prioritize animal welfare, visitor experience, and sustainability. They incorporate principles of architecture, landscape design, and animal behavior to develop spaces that meet the physical and psychological needs of animals while engaging the public. Zoo Designers work closely with zoologists, veterinarians, and engineers to ensure exhibits are safe, functional, and immersive. Their goal is to design habitats that support conservation, education, and research while providing a naturalistic and enriching experience for animals and visitors alike.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a zoo designer?

To thrive as a Zoo Designer, you need expertise in architecture, landscape design, animal behavior, and environmental planning, often supported by a degree in architecture, landscape architecture, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and knowledge of building codes and accreditation standards, such as those from AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums), are typically required. Strong collaboration, creativity, and communication skills are essential for working with multidisciplinary teams and translating complex ideas into practical designs. These skills ensure that zoo environments are functional, aesthetically pleasing, safe for both animals and visitors, and promote animal welfare and educational goals.

What are typical challenges faced by zoo designers when creating new exhibits or habitats?

Zoo Designers often encounter the challenge of balancing the needs and welfare of diverse animal species with guest experience, safety, and budget constraints. Each project requires extensive collaboration with veterinarians, animal keepers, engineers, and educators to ensure habitats are enriching, secure, and align with conservation goals. Zoning restrictions, climate considerations, and adapting to existing landscapes can also add complexity to the design process. Designers must continuously update their knowledge of best practices in animal care and exhibit innovation, making flexibility and problem-solving essential assets in this role.

How do you become a zoo designer?

To become a zoo designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in architecture, landscape architecture, zoology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or work in landscape design, architecture, or zoological planning is important, along with developing skills in CAD software and understanding animal habitat needs.

How much do zoo designers make?

Zoo designers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project scope. Senior designers or those with specialized skills in landscape architecture or animal habitats can earn higher salaries. The role often requires knowledge of design software and environmental considerations.

What does a zoo designer do?

A zoo designer plans and creates the layout, exhibits, and habitats within a zoo to ensure they are functional, safe, and engaging for both animals and visitors. They often collaborate with architects, biologists, and engineers, and may use design software to develop detailed plans. The role requires knowledge of animal needs, environmental sustainability, and design principles.

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Designer jobs in Michigan?

For Zoo Designer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Zoo Designer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Zoo Designer jobs in Michigan are:

Zoo Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Designer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,807 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Seasonal Face Painter

John Ball Zoo

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$13.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

John Ball Zoo rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

JOB SUMMARY
Bring art to life at the zoo as a Face Painter! Join our team to add vibrant colors and excitement. If you love working with kids, have an artistic flair, and enjoy creating themed designs, this role is your canvas. You will assist guests with purchases and become an expert in guest service. You'll be trained to craft fantastic designs, working at face painting and gift venues, ensuring every guest’s experience is magic. As a Face Painter, your role involves using painting techniques to create amazing designs on individuals and managing guest purchases. Let's spread joy through creativity together!
We are open through November! with October being one of our busiest times! We are looking for individuals to work any and every day of the week. Please make sure that you update your availability accurately.

PAY RATE: Starting at $12.00 per hour under 18
Starting at $13.75 per hour over 18
WHATS IN IT FOR YOU?
  • Zoo Membership – during employment ($135 Value) 
  • Free Bus Passes  
  • Scholarship Opportunities
  • Free Lunches ($100 Value) 
  • Incentive Opportunities for Close Encounters and Behind-The-Scenes Tours
  • Tickets to Special Events  
  • Reward-Based Incentives  
  • Flexible Scheduling (Student amp; Retiree Friendly) 
  • Personal amp; Professional Development Opportunities  
  • Easy Application!
WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Will work in various environments both inside and outside and may occasionally be exposed to inclement weather, temperature and air quality variations.
  • While performing the essential functions of this position the employee may be exposed to moving mechanical hazards; noxious fumes; blood borne pathogens; cleaning compounds; solvents; detergents; noise; and other hazards.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Must be able to navigate entire zoo grounds to access workstations.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position, perform frequent movements, and/or remain mobile for several hours during shift.
  • Must be able to work independently including setting up stations without assistance.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively and exchange information accurately
  • Must be able to maintain an excellent standard of guest service, including greeting, asking and answering questions, and processing transactions.
WHAT WE REQUIRE
  • Must be 15+ to apply
  • Must be able to work 20 hours per week
  • Weekday availability preferred
  • Must be able to work weekends and evenings if required
John Ball Zoo is a drug-free workplace under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

What John Ball Zoo employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply