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Zoo Director Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking an innovative and collaborative Director of Education to lead the development and implementation of education initiatives that advance our mission to protect nature ...

Security Officer - Part Time

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

As a Part-Time Security Officer at the Indianapolis Zoo, you'll play an important role in creating ... Perform additional duties and/or assumes other responsibilities as delegated by the Director of ...

Security Officer - Part Time

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Security Officer - Part Time As a Part-Time Security Officer at the Indianapolis Zoo, you'll play ... Perform additional duties and/or assumes other responsibilities as delegated by the Director of ...

Security Officer - Part Time

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

As a Part-Time Security Officer at the Indianapolis Zoo, you'll play an important role in creating ... Perform additional duties and/or assumes other responsibilities as delegated by the Director of ...

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Zoo Director information

See Indiana salary details

$12.2K

$62K

$161.7K

How much do zoo director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoo director in Indiana is $61,989.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,842.00 and $87,650.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a zoo director do?

A Zoo Director is responsible for overseeing the overall operations of a zoo, including animal care, staff management, budgeting, and public education programs. They ensure the zoo meets regulatory standards, develops conservation initiatives, and enhances visitor experiences. The role requires coordination with veterinarians, educators, and other professionals to maintain a safe and educational environment. Additionally, Zoo Directors may engage in fundraising and community outreach to support the zoo’s mission.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoo director?

To thrive as a Zoo Director, you need expertise in animal management, business administration, regulatory compliance, and a relevant degree such as zoology, biology, or business management. Familiarity with zoological management software, accreditation processes (such as AZA certification), and safety protocols is typically required. Outstanding leadership, strategic planning, public speaking, and interpersonal skills set top candidates apart. These capabilities enable you to balance animal care, staff and visitor engagement, and the complex operations of a modern zoological institution.

What are some typical challenges faced by zoo directors during daily operations?

Zoo Directors often face the challenge of balancing animal welfare with financial sustainability, regulatory requirements, and public engagement. They must coordinate diverse teams, oversee animal habitats, and respond to unexpected situations such as animal health emergencies or adverse weather. Effective communication and collaboration with veterinarians, keepers, marketing staff, and community stakeholders are essential. Directors also need to stay up-to-date with best practices in animal care and continually seek innovative ways to enhance visitor experiences and conservation efforts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Zoo Director jobs in Indiana? For Zoo Director jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Zoo Director job openings in Indiana 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 $61,989 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Director of Education

Indianapolis Zoo

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Indianapolis Zoo rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders and creating meaningful educational experiences that make a difference? The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking an innovative and collaborative Director of Education to lead the development and implementation of education initiatives that advance our mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.
About the Role
The Director of Education provides strategic leadership for a multidisciplinary team responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that serve guests of all ages both on and off Zoo grounds. This position works collaboratively across departments to create engaging conservation messaging, strengthen community partnerships, and support institutional goals related to education, attendance, revenue, and guest engagement.
The Director of Education serves as a key contributor to exhibit development, conservation communications, and strategic initiatives including the Indianapolis Prize and the Zoo's conservation efforts. This is a full-time position that typically works Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends required to support programs, events, and organizational needs.
Key Responsibilities
  • Evaluate programs to fully assess impact against education goals and objectives
  • Provide strategic leadership for all education programs and initiatives that advance the Zoo's mission and institutional goals.
  • Build relationships with schools and community youth-based organizations.
  • Develop and evaluate innovative educational experiences that inspire conservation action and enhance guest engagement.
  • Collaborate with Zoo departments to develop exhibit messaging, conservation communications, and animal ambassador programming.
  • Oversee departmental budgets, business planning, attendance goals, and revenue objectives.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop Education Department staff, volunteers, and Naturalist program participants.
  • Develop strategic partnerships that advance the Zoo's education and conservation initiatives.
  • Assist multiple departments as needed with conservation communications efforts of the Zoo, including organizing lectures for visiting conservationists, curating conservation messaging throughout the Zoo, and engaging with members of the Global Center for Species Survival to further our conservation messaging to the public. The Director of Education will also participate in the conservation grant review process.
  • Assist with grant writing, administration, and fundraising efforts supporting education programs and initiatives.
  • Represent the Zoo through community engagement, professional organizations, and educational partnerships.

What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree in Education, Science, or a related field from an accredited college or university required; Master's degree or PhD strongly preferred.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience required, with ten (10) years preferred in education, conservation, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience supervising and developing high-performing teams.
  • Proven success managing budgets, achieving organizational goals, and overseeing strategic initiatives.
  • Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
  • Demonstrated experience building collaborative partnerships and managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
  • Grant writing and grant administration experience preferred.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and related technology.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends as needed.

Why Join Us?
Working alongside passionate professionals across the organization, you'll help advance meaningful conservation initiatives, strengthen community partnerships, and inspire others to protect nature and care for our world. If you're ready to lead with purpose in a mission-driven environment, we encourage you to apply.
Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

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