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Zoo Development Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$89K - $100K/yr

Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs ... Provides direct clinical care including, but not limited to, examinations, surgery, diagnostic and ...

Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs ... Provides direct clinical care including, but not limited to, examinations, surgery, diagnostic and ...

... development opportunities. For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at ... as directed by the veterinarians. * Inspect and maintain all hospital equipment including ...

... development in the Zoo's staff pipeline. Guides the development and facilitation of programs to ... Works with direct reports to create and implement individual programs the collective department ...

... development opportunities. For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at ... as directed by the veterinarians. * Inspect and maintain all hospital equipment including ...

... direct activities of interns, volunteers, and other area Keepers. * Assists Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects. * Assists in the development and implementation of area standard ...

... direct activities of interns, volunteers, and other area Keepers. * Assists Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects. * Assists in the development and implementation of area standard ...

Develops and ensures implementation of on the job training and professional development programs that encourage professional growth of employees. * Actively participating in the zoo's Director team ...

Responsiblefor answering and directing incoming telephone calls, screening inquiries,taking ... Zoo's president * Assisteducation, group sales, development, events, marketing and ...

Develops and ensures implementation of on the job training and professional development programs that encourage professional growth of employees. * Actively participating in the zoo's Director team ...

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Zoo Development Director information

See salary details

$43K

$82.6K

$162K

How much do zoo development director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoo development director in the United States is $82,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo development director?

Zoo Development Directors are professionals responsible for managing and leading fundraising, donor relations, and development initiatives at a zoo. They create strategies to secure financial support from individuals, corporations, and foundations, and often oversee grant writing, special events, and membership programs. Their work ensures the zoo has the resources needed for operations, animal care, conservation, and educational programs. They also build relationships with key stakeholders and the community to promote the zoo's mission and long-term growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoo development director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoo Development Director, you need expertise in fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, and a relevant bachelor’s degree—often in nonprofit management, business, or a related field. Familiarity with donor management software (like Raiser’s Edge), CRM systems, and fundraising analytics is typically required, along with certifications such as CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) being advantageous. Outstanding interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and persuasive communication set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies are essential for effectively securing funding, building strong community partnerships, and supporting the zoo’s mission and growth.

What are some common challenges faced by a zoo development director, and how can they be addressed?

A Zoo Development Director often navigates challenges such as securing consistent funding, managing donor relationships, and aligning fundraising initiatives with the zoo’s mission and strategic goals. Balancing the needs of different stakeholders—including board members, sponsors, and community partners—requires strong communication and organizational skills. Successful directors often address these challenges by building robust donor stewardship programs, leveraging data-driven fundraising strategies, and working closely with marketing and education teams to create compelling campaigns that engage the community and drive support.

What is the difference between Zoo Development Director vs Zoo Education Coordinator?

AspectZoo Development DirectorZoo Education Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in nonprofit management, marketing, or related field; experience in fundraising and developmentBachelor's degree in education, biology, or related field; experience in educational program delivery
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, donor relations, fundraising eventsDesigning and delivering educational programs, school visits, public outreach
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks for fundraising rolesCommon in zoos and aquariums for educational program staff

The Zoo Development Director focuses on fundraising, donor relations, and strategic growth, while the Zoo Education Coordinator specializes in creating and implementing educational programs for visitors and schools. Both roles are vital in zoo operations but serve different functions within the organization.

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Development Director jobs?

For Zoo Development Director jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Zoo Development Director job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,598 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Zoo - Associate Veterinarian

On-site

Milwaukee County
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$89K - $100K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in developing and implementing clinical and preventative veterinary programs.

  • Provide direct clinical care including examinations, surgery, diagnostic tests, treatments, and lab work interpretation.

  • Manage the Commissary and Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator, including diet development, inventory, and budget monitoring.


Milwaukee County rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Zoological Department, 10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America

10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA

Job Description

Posted Friday, August 28, 2026 at 6:00 AM | Expires Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 5:59 AM

Interested in joining Milwaukee County? Milwaukee County is searching for authentic people who are out to change the game and bring their whole selves to work every day.

Milwaukee County oversees operations from our Airport, Behavioral Health, Child Support, Combined Court Operations, Sheriff's Department, Community Reintegration Center, Human Services, Parks, Public Safety, Public Works, Fleet Operations, Transportation, and at the Zoo. Our departments are also dedicated to our Seniors and those with Disabilities in Aging and Disability Services, and Veterans in Veterans Services. Our employees also remain committed to serving the cultural, human, recreational, and social needs of the entire community.

Milwaukee County offers a wide variety of interesting jobs for people who want to make a difference in our community. Milwaukee County provides a competitive benefit package and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are searching for Changemakers to come and join our team and discover our diverse and versatile community of independent spirits and unique talents, we are redefining the way you think about Milwaukee County!

Milwaukee County Zoo

Salary Range:$89,107.20 -$100,000

Job Posting will close on 09/11/2026

Job Summary: Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs. Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs. As a member of the Animal Management Team, develops and implements Animal Division programs, and , procedures. Provides mentorship and oversight for the Zoological Medicine and Surgery resident as well as veterinary students. Manages the Commissary and Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator. Participates in zoo conservation and research programs. Oversee hospital operations in the absence of the Senior Staff Veterinarian.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Clinical Duties - Assists in developing and implementing the preventive and clinical medicine programs. Provides direct clinical care including, but not limited to, examinations, surgery, diagnostic and regulatory tests, treatments, and lab work interpretation. Coordinates the veterinary medical aspects of animal shipments to and from the zoo. Maintains medical records.
  • Commissary Management - Manage the Commissary and Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator. Assist in diet development and evaluate diets within the park for diet drift and modify them as needed. Monitor Commissary inventory and budget. Identify and prioritize requests for facility maintenance and write purchase specifications for high volume and diverse dietary items in collaboration with the Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator. Assess food quality.
  • General Animal Division Management - As a member of Animal Management Team, participate in establishing animal department procedures, work rules,, and protocols, communicate related activities to zoo staff, research review, facility design and collection planning and management.
  • Conservation and Research - Manage or participate in zoological conservation, research or breeding programs. Prepare reports and articles for presentation or publication; participate in zoological-related conferences, workshops, seminars and professional development activities.
  • Staff Leadership - Supervise the work and performance of the hospital staff in the absence of the Senior Staff Veterinarian, providing leadership through motivation, engagement, feedback, support and development. Maximize employee and team effectiveness. Coordinate the recruitment, hiring, orientation, training, and evaluation of the team in conjunction with the Senior Staff Veterinarian. Maintain a positive culture of collaboration, accountability, and respectful behavior
  • Doctor Veterinary Medicine (DVM) - or a VMD degree from an AVMA accredited college or university
  • At least two (2) years or more experience working as aveterinarianin a zoo or wildlife park required
  • WI veterinary license or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire
  • USDA category II accreditation or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire
  • DEA and WI driver’s license or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
  • Cervid and Elephant TB testing certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire

Preferred Qualifications

  • ACZM board certification or eligibility
  • Completion of an approved residency in Zoo Veterinary Medicine

NOTE: This position is unclassified and not subject to Civil Service Rules and Regulations. This original application is open to qualified candidates authorized to work in the United States. Appointee must establish Wisconsin State residency within six (6) months of appointment and maintain such residency during incumbency.

Milwaukee County is committed to fostering an equitable working environment, free from discrimination and harassment, on the basis of any characteristic protected by law. We prohibit any form of discrimination, harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, pregnancy related condition, national origin, age, disability, FMLA status, sexual orientation, military status, marital status, or any other category or status that is now or in the future protected by federal, state, and local law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing, background checks and pre-employment physicals subject to job requirements.

Zoological Department, 10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States of America,

10001 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA,

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