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Zoo Designer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and ... Assists in planning and designing of new installations of heating and air-conditioning systems.

... designing and implementing Outreach programs as needed • Work with Outreach Manager and Supervisor to maintain animal husbandry, enrichment, and safety • Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral ...

Solutions Architect

Houston, TX · On-site

$60.25 - $79.25/hr

As the Zoo's primary application architecture authority, the Solutions Architect evaluates software technologies, designs application integration approaches, and directs implementation decisions. The ...

Solutions Architect

Houston, TX · On-site

$60.25 - $79.25/hr

As the Zoo's primary application architecture authority, the Solutions Architect evaluates software technologies, designs application integration approaches, and directs implementation decisions. The ...

Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and ... Assists in planning and designing of new installations of heating and air-conditioning systems.

Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and ... Assists in planning and designing of new installations of heating and air-conditioning systems.

... designing and implementing Outreach programs as needed • Work with Outreach Manager and Supervisor to maintain animal husbandry, enrichment, and safety • Participate in the zoo-wide behavioral ...

Analyzes, designs, programs, debugs and modifies software enhancements and/or new products used in ... Experience with or Knowledge of ZooKeeper Experience with Hardware (specifically tailoring HW for ...

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Zoo Designer information

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 the most commonly searched types of Zoo Designer jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Zoo Designer jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Zoo Designer jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Zoo Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Zoo Designer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Philanthropy / Event Management Non-Profit Management Internship- Fall 2026

Dallas Zoo

Dallas, TX

Internship

Re-posted 6 days ago


Dallas Zoo rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Interns will focus on development, fundraising, and assisting with all aspects of event management. Interns will gain hands-on experience by helping with fundraising campaigns and special donor member events, including Dallas Zoo's flagship annual fundraiser, Zoo To Do.Additionally, interns may have the opportunity to learn about donor management systems, volunteer management, and membership programs. Interns will assist with galas, special events, and other donor/member activities, as needed. Working closely with program managers, interns will assist with writing solicitation letters and acknowledgment/thank you letters in a timely manner and help maintain program-specific acknowledgment processes. Ability to think critically about correspondence content and notes for program managers when special messaging or general updates may be necessary. During the semester Interns will also assist with donor and member events; and other events for the Dallas Zoo.
An ideal intern will be a team player, and willing to learn how to interact with board members, major donors, and internal stakeholders.
The intern selected will also learn about: cross-departmental planning and collaboration; planning and analyzing cost-effective events; soliciting monetary and in-kind event contributions; tracking and acknowledging event donations; supervising the Events Coordinator(s); managing event volunteers and committees (frequently including major donors and board members); and coordinating and managing event collateral, sponsors, contractors, vendors, employees, and volunteers.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES intern may learn:
Assisting with the planning and execution of Dallas Zoo fundraising events; donor, member, and prospect cultivation and stewardship events; and other events, as needed.
Assist the advancement team with all aspects of event production, including food and beverage arrangements, vendor management, and event set up and tear down.
Collaborate with event fundraising chairs, volunteers, committees, staff, and vendors.
Regularly communicate with Dallas Zoo leadership, staff, and others.
Willing to learn and actively use the Zoo's project management software for event planning, collateral review, etc. Commitment to meeting deadlines is crucial.
Serve as an "ambassador" of the Zoo.
The Dallas Zoo College Internship Program provides a learning opportunity for currently enrolled undergraduate students at an accreditedcollege/university in the United States. Interns become actively involved in the Zoo's animal care departments, conservation/research efforts, operations, and administrative positions.
Interns will work 20-40 hours per week for a minimum of 12 weeks. Each placement is designed to help the intern gain experience related to their education. Most all internship positions are unpaid, and the Zoo does not provide transportation, housing, or a stipend.
All interns will be expected to participate in at least one service-learning project and attend professional development sessions designed especially for Zoo interns.
The Dallas Zoo Volunteer Services Department will work with students/schools to document internship experience needed to gain university/college credit.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be available 20-24 hours per week for up to 12 weeks (dependent on area) including holidays and weekends
  • Flexible, self-motivated, and a team player
  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions
  • Work safely and as instructed around animals, tools, and equipment
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
  • Establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, and zoo guests
  • Have good observational skills
  • Able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull, bend, climb stairs and ladders, carry up to 50lbs, and actively work in inclement weather
  • Have a valid US driver's license with reliable transportation
  • Must be otherwise eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of the internship
  • Pass a background check
  • Provide a current negative TB test prior to the internship start date
  • Have some computer knowledge
  • Bilingual beneficial
REQUIRED EDUCATION:
  • Must be currently enrolled in a college or university student as a junior, senior, master's level student, or recent college graduate
  • Applications accepted within one year after graduation
This is an unpaid internship, and the Zoo does not provide transportation, housing, or stipends.
Application Deadline: 1 August 2026
Fall Internship Start Date: 22 September 2026
Employment Type: Intern

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