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Zoo Educator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Zoo Job ID: 13126 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Up to three years of experience (all) may be substituted with education that provides applicable ...

Zoo Job ID: 13126 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Up to three years of experience (all) may be substituted with education that provides applicable ...

Zoo Job ID: 13126 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Up to three years of experience (all) may be substituted with education that provides applicable ...

Zoo Job ID: 13126 Pay: $20.72 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Up to three years of experience (all) may be substituted with education that provides applicable ...

Registrar

Garden City, KS · On-site

$20.88 - $25.45/hr

... Zoo or equivalent combination of training, education and experience; Valid Kansas Driver's license required. Supplemental Information Environment: Work is performed primarily indoors under controlled ...

Registrar

Garden City, KS · On-site

$20.88 - $25.45/hr

... Zoo or equivalent combination of training, education and experience; Valid Kansas Driver's license required. Supplemental Information Environment: Work is performed primarily indoors under controlled ...

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Zoo Educator information

See Kansas salary details

$9

$19

$36

How much do zoo educator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo educator in Kansas is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo educator?

A Zoo Educator is responsible for teaching visitors about wildlife, conservation, and animal behavior through presentations, tours, and interactive programs. They develop educational materials, lead school and public programs, and may assist with outreach events. Zoo Educators work closely with animal care staff to ensure accurate information is shared with the public. Their goal is to inspire conservation awareness and foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife.

What does a zoo educator do?

A typical day for a Zoo Educator includes preparing and delivering educational presentations to school groups and the public, developing interactive programs, and collaborating with animal care staff to ensure accurate information is shared. You may spend time creating lesson plans, facilitating hands-on activities, or leading guided tours. The role also often involves answering visitor questions, participating in conservation initiatives, and occasionally assisting with special events or outreach programs. This dynamic environment provides continuous opportunities to learn and make a positive impact on both visitors and wildlife.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a zoo educator?

To thrive as a Zoo Educator, you need in-depth knowledge of animal biology, educational methods, and public speaking, often backed by a degree in biology, zoology, or education. Experience with presentation tools, interactive displays, and sometimes CPR or first aid certification is also beneficial. Exceptional communication, enthusiasm for learning, and the ability to engage diverse audiences are key soft skills. These abilities are essential for effectively conveying information about wildlife conservation, inspiring visitors, and ensuring educational programs run smoothly and safely.

How do you become a zoo educator?

To become a zoo educator, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, education, or a related field, along with experience working with animals or in educational settings. Strong communication skills, knowledge of animal behavior, and sometimes certification in first aid or animal handling are also beneficial. Volunteering or internships at zoos can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.

How much do zoo educators make?

Zoo educators typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the zoo. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced educators or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Many zoo educators also receive benefits such as discounts, training, and opportunities for professional development.

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Educator jobs in Kansas?

For Zoo Educator jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Zoo Educator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,585 per year, or $20 per hour.

PT Zookeeper - Mammals - ZOO

Sedgwick County

Wichita, KS • On-site

$20.72/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Sedgwick County rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

663rd of 852 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Department:  Zoo 

Job ID: 13126

Pay:  $20.72 per hour  

Work Schedule:   

Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation reviews, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.  For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at SCBenefits.

In a team setting provides daily care for mammal collection including feeding, cleaning, observing, recording, and reporting behavior. Participates in animal well-being assessment practices. Produces and provides goal-based animal training and enrichment.   Inspects facilities for security, safety, repair and maintenance. Interacts and provides customer service to all Zoo defined customers. Job duties may extend to other animal taxa. This position participates in a mandatory on-call rotation.

Animal Care and Management

  • Ensure animals are housed and cared for in ways that meet all Zoo-defined goals.
  • Demonstrate and maintain knowledge of basic mammalian natural history, behavior, and terminology.
  • Recognize abnormalities and potential medical conditions and communicate observations of animal behavior and health condition to veterinary staff, supervisor, curator, and other pertinent staff members.
  • Handle animals for husbandry needs, medical purposes, and in preparation for transport.
  • Under the direction of veterinarians and/or supervisors, administer medications or treatments as instructed.
  • Prepare animal diets. Monitor and report to supervisor the quality of all dietary components, food intake by Zoo animals, and unintended diet consumption by non-collection animal pests.
  • Drive Zoological Society-owned vehicles, as needed, to care for or transfer animals to other zoological facilities. Animal transfer trips may occasionally require overnight travel.
  • Follow all safety protocols and area SOP’s while working with and around delicate, wild and potentially dangerous animals. Complete required training and safely operate all zoo required equipment for completion of job duties.

Animal Well-being

  • Through consultation with supervisors and other resources, develop and maintain a skillset of positive well-being, and animal training.
  • Conduct and evaluate appropriate enrichment activities as demonstrated by Zoo's enrichment program.
  • Uses positive reinforcement training to assess medical conditions and to maintain a safe working environment.

Area Maintenance

  • Clean and maintain service areas, animal habitats and public areas so they are clean, organized and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Complete daily inspections of animal habitats and associated facilities for security and safety concerns.
  • Conduct minor repairs to facilities or promptly submits concerns to supervisor.
  • Ensure that habitats are ready for public display in a timely manner.
  • Communicate any pest control concerns to supervisors or veterinary team.

Minimum Qualifications: Three years of experience in Biology, Zoology, Animal Care, or a related field. Up to three years of experience (all) may be substituted with education that provides applicable knowledge and skills. Per Sedgwick County policy, this is a driving level position that requires a valid US driver’s license without restrictions and current proof of automobile insurance.

Preferred Qualifications: Two years of animal care experience. Experience with operant conditioning and enrichment techniques, experience with power tools, experience using a skid steer and bobcat. Degree in Zoology, Biology, or a related field from an accredited college or university.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws. Please find more information under the following link.  Apply for a Job | Sedgwick County, Kansas


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