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Zoo Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Execute departmental strategies that align with the Zoo's mission, organizational priorities ... Direct the daily operation of Membership, Ticketing/Redemption, Rides & Attractions, Theater and ...

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

... as directed by animal care leadership. They also assist with the development and writing of ... John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures ...

Execute departmental strategies that align with the Zoo's mission, organizational priorities ... Direct the daily operation of Membership, Ticketing/Redemption, Rides & Attractions, Theater and ...

Animal Keeper

Peoria, IL · On-site

$20.96/hr

Participate in preventative medicine/procedures and report animal health concerns to the Animal Curator or Zoo Director; serve as the liaison with the veterinarian as needed. * Recommend procedures ...

Animal Keeper

Peoria, IL · On-site

$20.96/hr

Participate in preventative medicine/procedures and report animal health concerns to the Animal Curator or Zoo Director; serve as the liaison with the veterinarian as needed. * Recommend procedures ...

Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs ... Provides direct clinical care including, but not limited to, examinations, surgery, diagnostic and ...

Direct plant and hardscape choices, obtain all materials and equipment, and complete projects to zookeeper and horticulturists' standards. * Assist maintenance with large construction projects ...

Zoo - Seasonal Grounds Worker

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$11.23 - $23.87/hr

Seasonal Grounds Zoo Worker Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Range: $11.23 - $23.87 Job Summary: To ... The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of ...

Zoo - Seasonal Grounds Worker

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$11.23 - $23.87/hr

Seasonal Grounds Zoo Worker Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Range: $11.23 - $23.87 Job Summary: To ... The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of ...

Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs ... Provides direct clinical care including, but not limited to, examinations, surgery, diagnostic and ...

May assist with departmental research projects, conservation, AZA, or other industry activities as directed/approve by the Zoo Supervisor or Curator; provides support for the Zoo projects. * Exhibits ...

Direct plant and hardscape choices, obtain all materials and equipment, and complete projects to zookeeper and horticulturists' standards. * Assist maintenance with large construction projects ...

Zookeeper I

Atascadero, CA · On-site

$49K - $59K/yr

Works under direct supervision of the Zoo Supervisor, within a framework of well-defined policies and procedures. Examples of Duties Performs a variety of facility and exhibit maintenance tasks to ...

Showing results 41-60

Zoo Director information

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$13K

$66.1K

$172.5K

How much do zoo director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoo director in the United States is $66,127.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26,500.00 and $93,500.00 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.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Zoo Director jobs?

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What states have the most Zoo Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Zoo Director jobs include:

Infographic showing various Zoo Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,127 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Director of Advertising and Digital Media

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

General Summary

The Director of Advertising and Digital Media oversees the Zoo’s brand presence, including advertising & marketing, the website, social media channels, and email campaigns. Under the direction of the Senior Director, the Director leads multi‑channel social and traditional media buys, assesses mid‑campaign optimization, and generates detailed analysis in post‑campaign reporting.

The Director oversees the Digital Media Coordinator, and is responsible for vendor management, billing, and accounting. This position works collaboratively with internal departments to develop campaigns, promotions, and opportunities that drive visitation and increase revenue. Additionally, the Director of Advertising and Digital Media will support the Zoo’s mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustainability, conservation, education, and DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) goals.

Essential Functions
  • Under the direction of the Senior Director of Marketing and Communication, execute advertising campaigns and develop new promotions and initiatives to drive visitation, generate new revenue, and maximize reach;
  • Manage all aspects of the Zoo’s traditional and digital advertising, including tactics, placing advertisements, KPI‑driven reporting, data synthesis, and billing;
  • Oversee the Digital Media Coordinator and the Zoo’s digital media content creation, posting, and comment response for social media, online reviews, and interactive content on the website;
  • Support video and photo content to enhance the Zoo’s engagement;
  • Ensure accurate representation of the Zoo’s branded voice in all external facing digital communications;
  • Manage the annual calendar, content, and execution of Zoo email communications;
  • Manage and improve email capture systems and subscription databases;
  • Manage website messaging and effectiveness. Monitor site analytics, and conduct critical assessments to analyze return on investment, opportunities for growth and areas for improvement. Provide relevant data and reports to internal departments on a regular basis;
  • Contribute to the development, implementation, and facilitation of annual marketing plans;
  • Act as liaison with Zoo vendors for digital media and website programming and development;
  • Foster a success-oriented and accountable team environment;
  • Perform other duties as assigned; and,
  • Adhere to all policies and procedures of the Zoo.
Communication (Internal and External)
  • Maintain vendor relationships as needed;
  • Manage the emergency alerts protocol as it relates to the website (i.e. inclement weather response or unexpected closures).
Management of Resources (Financial, Human Resources, Facilities)
  • Manage the Zoo’s day‑to‑day website updates using Internal WordPress content management system; maintain overall message, content and activity;
  • Manage inventory and maintenance of digital media equipment (video cameras, still cameras etc.);
  • Manage input of Marketing Department invoices into Financial Edge for approval by the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications; and,
  • Allocate staff to assist other departments as needed for cross utilization of skills and manpower.
Minimum Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, business, communications, or another related field preferred.

Experience/Training:

  • Minimum of four years of direct experience in placing advertisements, omni‑channel media planning, execution, and analysis;
  • Excellent analytical skills;
  • Google Ads Certification;
  • Familiarity with working under deadlines and writing for varied audiences;
  • Valid driver’s license.
Traits Desirable
  • Familiarity with digital content editing tools such as Adobe Premiere;
  • Familiarity with media buying software;
  • Ability to communicate effectively;
  • Strong organizational skills; and,
  • Excellent writing skills.
Equipment
  • Must be able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including computer, telephone, scanner, copier, fax, two‑way radio, golf cart, vehicles, etc.
Working Conditions
  • Must be able to stand and remain active for an eight‑hour shift;
  • Must be able to walk large areas of the Zoo as needed;
  • Must be able to work in an outdoor weather environment in all seasons and weather, including heat/humidity, cold temperatures, and/or wet conditions;
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule to include weekends, holidays, and special events; and,
  • Must be able to exert up to 35 pounds of force to lift, push, pull, carry, or otherwise move objects; and,
  • Exposure to potential environmental hazards such as poison oak/ivy, uneven terrain, insect bites/stings, and Hepatitis B depending on the position.
Benefits
  • We offer an excellent benefits package including 24 days of Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick and Safe Leave, and 2 paid holidays.
  • Eligible for medical, dental, vision, short‑ and long‑term disability and life insurance.
  • 401(k) with employer match.
Disclaimer

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of all personnel so classified. Therefore, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change.

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