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Zoo Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seasonal - Zoo Guest Services

Minot, ND · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

Answer phones and direct traffic on weekends. * Take daily ticket sales, wagon rental, and sell ... Provide assistance in other areas of the Zoo as required. * Performs other duties as assigned or ...

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 ...

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 ...

Implements proactive preventive maintenance plan as directed in accordance with the zoo preventive maintenance policy. Visually inspects, repairs, and maintains physical structures. Visually inspects ...

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EVS Custodial Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Rate: $14.50 1st and 2nd shifts are available ... The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of ...

EVS Custodial Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Rate: $14.50 1st and 2nd shifts are available ... The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of ...

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Zoo Director information

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$13K

$66.1K

$172.5K

How much do zoo director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 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 oversees the overall operation and management of a zoo, including staff supervision, budgeting, strategic planning, and ensuring animal welfare and public education. They coordinate with veterinarians, curators, and other staff to maintain a safe and educational environment for visitors and animals.

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.

How to become a zoo director?

To become a zoo director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or a related field, along with extensive experience in animal care, conservation, or zoo management. Many zoo directors also hold advanced degrees such as a master's or doctorate and demonstrate strong leadership, administrative skills, and knowledge of animal welfare regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Zoo Director position, and why are they important?

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 is the highest paying job in a zoo?

The highest paying job in a zoo is typically the Zoo Director or Executive Director, who oversees all operations, staff, and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience in management, zoology, or related fields and can earn a six-figure salary depending on the size and funding of the 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.

How much do zoo directors make?

Zoo directors typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $150,000, depending on the size and location of the zoo, as well as their experience and education. Larger or more prominent zoos tend to offer higher salaries, and leadership roles often require advanced degrees in zoology, management, or related fields.
More about Zoo Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Director jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Director job openings:
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? The top employers for Zoo Director jobs are:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 46% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 35% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,127 per year, or $31.8 per hour.
Clinical Laboratory Assistant - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Clinical Laboratory Assistant - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Escondido, CA • On-site

$17.60 - $19.47/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors - the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park - giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Clinical Laboratory Assistant performs a variety of duties to assist laboratory operations. This position reports to the Laboratory Manager or Associate Director of Clinical Laboratory Services.
WHAT YOU WILL DO

  • Receive, log, prepare, and may analyze wildlife blood, feces, urine and fluid samples.
  • Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies, including restocking supplies.
  • Prepare and ship blood, feces, urine and fluid samples to outside laboratories or researchers.
  • Maintain paper and electronic filing systems including receiving send out results.
  • Assist the Laboratory Technician with laboratory duties as needed.
  • Coordinate Laboratory Activities as needed.


WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The Clinical Laboratory Assistant will primarily work at the Safari Park in Escondido, CA with occasional shifts at the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, CA.

  • JOB EXPERIENCE
    • At least one year of experience in a clinical or biological research laboratory, or related training or coursework required.

  • EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
    • Associate degree two-year Technical Degree or similar required.
    • Medical Laboratory Technician - Certified from ASCP Registered Veterinary Technician preferred.
    • Certified Veterinary Technician - NAVTA Medical Lab Technician preferred.

  • SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
    • Knowledge of standard laboratory equipment required.
    • Ability to maintain clear and concise laboratory documentation required.
    • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing required.
    • Ability to use moderately complex computer systems required.
    • Ability to work effectively with others required.
    • Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks required.
    • Knowledge and ability to handle biohazardous materials and potentially zoonotic samples required.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

  • Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Family Passes
  • Complimentary Tickets
  • Local and In-House Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

  • Location: San Diego, CA
  • Position Type: Hourly, Part-Time, Non-Exempt Position
  • Hourly Rate: $17.60 to $19.47

Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.

If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.


Be an ally for wildlife by joining our team!

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we thrive on celebrating our differences. Diversity is vital for the benefit of our team members, our guests, our community, and our wildlife.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.