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Zoo Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer II Design Engineer II - Power Tools NPD INNOVATE WITHOUT BOUNDARIES! At Milwaukee ... near Miller Park, Milwaukee Zoo, Mitchell Park Domes, as well as many more attractions and ...

Design Engineer II Design Engineer II - Power Tools NPD INNOVATE WITHOUT BOUNDARIES! At Milwaukee ... Zoo, Mitchell Park Domes, as well as many more attractions and restaurants. You will work in a fast ...

Free Passes to Milwaukee Zoo * Free Notary Services PremierBank is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer and adheres to EEO Guidelines to offer employment without regard to race, color ...

... zoos, theme parks, casinos, resorts, museums, botanical gardens, residential communities, golf ... Participate in engineering and general design reviews; coordinate pricing and contract data as ...

Zoo Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$60.1K

$91.4K

$154.9K

How much do zoo engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoo engineer in Wisconsin is $91,358.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a zoo engineer do?

A zoo engineer designs, maintains, and repairs the infrastructure and systems within a zoo, such as enclosures, water features, and climate control systems. They often work with architects, veterinarians, and other staff to ensure animal habitats are safe, functional, and meet environmental standards, using skills in engineering, construction, and project management.

What are some common challenges a Zoo Engineer faces on the job?

A Zoo Engineer often encounters the challenge of designing habitats that balance animal welfare with visitor experience and safety regulations. You must collaborate extensively with animal care staff, architects, and maintenance crews to ensure that structures meet the unique needs of various species. Adapting existing infrastructure to accommodate new exhibits or changing standards can present both technical and logistical hurdles. Although these challenges can be demanding, they also offer meaningful opportunities to solve unique problems and make a tangible impact on the well-being of animals and the overall operation of the zoo.

What is a Zoo Engineer job?

A Zoo Engineer is a professional who designs, maintains, and improves zoo facilities and animal enclosures to ensure safety, sustainability, and functionality. They work with zookeepers, veterinarians, and architects to create environments that support animal well-being while enhancing visitor experience. Their responsibilities may include designing water filtration systems, climate control, and enrichment structures that mimic natural habitats. Zoo Engineers often have backgrounds in mechanical, civil, or environmental engineering.

What is the highest paying job in a zoo?

The highest paying jobs in a zoo are typically senior management roles such as zoo directors or executive administrators, who oversee operations, budgets, and staff. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size and location of the zoo.

Do zoos need engineers?

Zoo engineers are essential for designing, maintaining, and repairing enclosures, infrastructure, and systems such as climate control and water supply. They ensure the safety and functionality of zoo facilities, often requiring skills in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering and familiarity with environmental regulations.

Is it hard to get hired at the zoo?

Getting hired as a zoo engineer can be competitive, as it often requires relevant education in engineering or biology, experience with animal habitats or environmental systems, and sometimes certifications. Strong technical skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and a passion for animal care can improve chances of employment in this specialized field.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering (such as civil, mechanical, or environmental engineering), along with knowledge of animal habitat requirements and safety standards. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, project management tools, and relevant certifications (e.g., Professional Engineer license) are often needed. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and collaborative teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing, building, and maintaining safe, innovative, and enriching environments that support animal welfare and public engagement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Engineer jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Zoo Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Zoo Engineer jobs in Wisconsin? For Zoo Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Zoo Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,358 per year, or $43.9 per hour.
Quality Technician- CMM Programmer.

Quality Technician- CMM Programmer.

READER PRECISION SOLUTIONS INC

Elkhorn, WI โ€ข On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description:

Reader Precision Solutions is searching for a skilled CMM Programmer/Quality Technician with a programming focus to be responsible for the development, programming, and optimization of metrology and quality inspection systems, including Zeiss Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs), Keyence, Oasis, and other precision equipment. This individual ensures quality inspection processes are efficient, accurate, and aligned with client and industry standards. This role is essential in driving high-quality outputs and supports training of staff in system usage.


Work Schedule: This is a full-time, benefits eligible position requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Core work schedule is Monday โ€“ Friday from 6:30am โ€“ 3:00pm. Individual must be flexible to work overtime as needed.


Pay Rate: $27 - $30


Essential Duties & Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Program, optimize, and maintain Zeiss CMMs, Keyence, Oasis, and other automat inspection systems.
  • Create and refine inspection routines and part measurement programs based on engineering drawings and specifications.
  • Develop and document clear work instructions and standard procedures for using quality equipment.
  • Train quality and production staff on inspection equipment usage and best practices.
  • Troubleshoot software and hardware issues with quality lab systems, ensuring minimal downtime.
  • Collaborate with engineering and production to validate inspection setups and measurement strategies.
  • Support first article inspection (FAI) and production validation processes.
  • Stay current on advancements in metrology programming software and technologies.
  • Ensure compliance with internal quality processes, industry standards, and client requirements.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.
Requirements:

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required; associate degree in engineering, quality, or a related field preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience in metrology programming or quality systems in a manufacturing setting.
  • Strong hands-on experience programming CMMs (e.g., Calypso), Keyence, Oasis, or equivalent systems.

Technical Skills

  • Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and CAD models.
  • Skilled in metrology software and program troubleshooting.
  • Knowledge of quality control methodologies, inspection planning, and dimensional analysis.

Soft Skills

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Effective trainer and communicator with the ability to create user-friendly documentation.
  • Capable of working independently and managing multiple projects.
  • Collaborative mindset focused on continuous improvement and team support.

Benefits & perks of joining the Reader Precision Solutions team include: RPS team members enjoy a challenging and fast-paced work environment in a high-tech manufacturing facility named the 35th and 37th Annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year. Our work environment is extremely clean, well lit, organized (5S), and climate-controlled. In addition, our team thrives in a supportive culture that provides engaged leadership, ongoing recognition for performance results, and a great benefits package.

  • Climate Controlled Facility
  • Competitive wages (paid weekly on Thursday's)
  • 8% of base pay shift differential (2nd and 3rd shift)
  • Benefits begin the month following 30 days of employment: health insurance with points based, holistic wellness program, dental, life, & disability insurance
  • Partnership with a near site local clinic for FREE health services including primary & preventative care, walk in visits, labs, prescriptions, etc.
  • FREE vision insurance!
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with up to 4.5% company match (immediately vested!)
  • Vacation accrual starts upon hire - accrue up to 2.5 weeks in first year!
  • 9 paid holidays with up to two discretionary holidays
  • Education assistance up to $5,250 annually (after 12 months of service)
  • Professional development opportunities โ€“ internal and external (cross-departmental training, PMPA conferences, IMTS-Chicago, local technical colleges/universities, and moreโ€ฆ)
  • Career advancement โ€“ ongoing training and mentoring with opportunity to grow your skills
  • Performance bonus โ€“ potential to receive a discretionary year-end bonus based on individual and group performance
  • Company paid Short-Term Disability policy
  • Company events โ€“ team lunches, summer picnic event, holiday party
  • Company zoo pass to Milwaukee County Zoo
  • Voluntary pet insurance
  • Holistic wellness program โ€“ earn up to $700 in incentives through points accumulation for accomplishing a variety of wellness activities. Also offered by the Company are employer paid onsite flu shots, biometric screenings, free health coaching and MUCH more!
  • Employer paid life insurance โ€“ $50,000 policy with options for voluntary life up to $400,000 benefit maximum
  • Financial planning resources and onsite financial wellness workshops
  • Employer subsidized work shoes & safety glasses program
  • Reader Precision Solutions branded attire โ€“ $100 annual allowance
  • Employee Referral bonus โ€“ $1,000
  • Satisfying workโ€ฆleaving work at the end of the day knowing that the GREAT work you do is meaningful and appreciated by the Company, our clients, and end users who benefit from the high-quality components we manufacture for them!

Core Competencies โ€“ Reader Precision Solutions Four Pillars:

  • Innovation โ€“ we apply creative solutions to exceed expectations internally and externally. We deliver creative solutions by pursuing continuous improvement, challenging the limits of conventional thinking to drive positive change, and engaging our customers to achieve synergy.
  • Empowerment โ€“ we equip our employees to succeed. We nurture success by setting realistic goals and standards; with accountability and regular performance feedback, providing training opportunities for growth and learning and offering employees a safe and modern work environment.
  • Integrity โ€“ our reputation is everything. We preserve and enhance our reputation by operating with the highest ethical standards, focusing on customer needs, and contributing positively to our community and environment.
  • Respect โ€“ we act with honor in all our interactions. In our interactions, we accept and value individual differences, work together with a positive attitude and promote open and honest communication in a team-based environment.

Reader Precision Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We respect and seek to empower each individual and support the diverse cultures, perspectives, skills and experiences within our workforce.