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Zoo Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Building Engineer

Omaha, NE · On-site

$24.79/hr

... Zoo & Aquarium and play an integral role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports our animals, staff, and visitors. This position reports directly to the Manager of Building Engineering.

... Zookeeper features * Investigate customer-reported bugs, gather reproduction steps, and partner with engineering to resolve issues * Escalate complex technical issues while maintaining clear ...

Senior Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $195K/yr

You will partner closely with engineering and leadership to establish a world-class design standard across every touchpoint. What You'll Do * Own our next phase of design across Zoo's full ecosystem ...

About Us Zoo is building the next generation of hardware design tools redefining how hardware ... Our platform combines a modern, cloud-native CAD environment with AI-powered engineering workflows ...

Keeper- Birds

Omaha, NE · On-site

$18.62/hr

Interact with the public either informally or through zoo programming, events, or behind the scenes tour. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: * Have or develop the appropriate level of knowledge of the ...

About Us Zoo is building the next generation of hardware design tools redefining how hardware ... Our platform combines a modern, cloud-native CAD environment with AI-powered engineering workflows ...

... Zookeeper features * Investigate customer-reported bugs, gather reproduction steps, and partner with engineering to resolve issues * Escalate complex technical issues while maintaining clear ...

... Zoo, you will lead the development and operation of our manufacturing systems, machine shop, and hardware production workflows that power the future of engineering design. You will serve as a ...

Senior Designer

Los Angeles, CA

$109K - $117K/yr

You will partner closely with engineering and leadership to establish a world-class design standard across every touchpoint. What You'll Do * Own our next phase of design across Zoo's full ecosystem ...

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Showing results 1-20

Zoo Engineering information

See salary details

$46.5K

$146.9K

$174K

How much do zoo engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoo engineering in the United States is $146,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Zoo Engineering vs Zoo Technician?

AspectZoo EngineeringZoo Technician
Required CredentialsDegree in engineering, environmental science, or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree in animal care or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning and maintaining zoo infrastructure, working with engineers and architectsAnimal care, habitat maintenance, and supporting zoo operations
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, often involved in project planningZoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, focused on daily animal care and habitat upkeep

Zoo Engineering primarily involves designing and maintaining zoo infrastructure, requiring engineering or environmental science credentials. Zoo Technicians focus on animal care and habitat maintenance, with technical or animal care training. Both roles are essential in zoo operations but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How much does a zoo engineer make?

Zoo engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. They often work with specialized tools and may require engineering certifications or degrees in mechanical, civil, or environmental engineering.

Do zoos hire engineers?

Zoo engineering involves designing and maintaining infrastructure such as animal enclosures, exhibits, and facilities. Engineers in this field typically have backgrounds in civil, mechanical, or environmental engineering and work closely with zoo staff to ensure safe, functional, and sustainable environments for animals and visitors.

What is the highest paying job in a zoo?

The highest paying job in a zoo is typically a zoo director or zoo executive, responsible for overall management and strategic planning. These roles 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.

What is a zoo engineer?

A zoo engineer is a professional responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining enclosures, facilities, and infrastructure within a zoo. They often have skills in engineering, architecture, or construction, and may work with environmental and animal welfare considerations to ensure safe and functional habitats.

What is Zoo Engineering?

Zoo engineering is a specialized field that combines principles of engineering with animal science to design, build, and maintain zoological facilities. Professionals in this area work to create safe, enriching, and sustainable habitats for animals, while also ensuring the safety and engagement of visitors. This work involves collaborating with architects, animal care staff, and biologists to meet strict regulatory standards for animal welfare and public safety. Zoo engineers may be involved in projects like designing animal enclosures, water filtration systems, and visitor pathways. Their work is crucial in supporting conservation, education, and research activities within zoos.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Engineer, you need expertise in civil or mechanical engineering, facility design, and an understanding of animal habitats, typically supported by an engineering degree and relevant licensure. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools, and building codes related to animal enclosures is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate with animal care staff and address unique design challenges. These abilities ensure that zoo environments are safe, functional, and conducive to animal well-being and visitor engagement.
More about Zoo Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Zoo Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Zoo Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,868 per year, or $70.6 per hour.
Part-time Zoo Troop Instructor

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Cincinnati Zoo amp; Botanical Garden
Part-time Zoo Troop Instructor: Education
Early Education: 18 months-Kindergarten
The educational vision of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is to provide quality experiences that foster a sense of wonder, share knowledge, and advocate active involvement with wildlife and wild places.
Job Description: T
he Cincinnati Zoo amp; Botanical Garden Education Department is seeking creative, enthusiastic, hardworking individuals with a strong interest in environmental education and a passion for children. Zoo Troop Instructors will facilitate environmental education for groups of children ages 18 months-1st amp;2nd grade (6-8 years old) in year-round educational programing focused on whole-child development, leadership opportunities, and community building. Through live animal encounters, interactive games, crafts, Zoo hikes, and conservation challenges, instructors will help children develop a sense of wonder, build knowledge, and encourage environmental action with wildlife and wild places. In addition, instructors will be able to work with an experienced staff of environmental educators to further develop their animal handling, educational and interpretive skills.
Job Duties:
  • Instructor responsibilities include but are not limited to:
    • Successful completion of initial and ongoing Animal Handling Training and Program Training, as well as staying current on all procedures week to week.
    • Available to teach a minimum of 6 hours per week on the same day(s) of the week, every week, year-round. Current hiring for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings.
    • Instruction of programs for a variety of ages between 18 months -1st amp;2nd grade(6-8 years) in accordance with the provided curriculum and training.
    • Build positive and meaningful long-term relationships with a cohort of children and their families as well as your coworkers.
    • Setting up and breaking down classroom before and after programs.
    • Assure all necessary supplies and documentation are accounted for.
    • Evaluate growth of participants’ knowledge and skills.
Qualifications:
  • Progress toward university degree in biology, education or related field; equivalent experience in the field accepted as alternative
  • Experience and/or strong interest in working with children including toddlers and preschoolers, strong communication skills, and willingness to learn to work with a variety of animals
  • Successful completion of a background check and drug screen
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs. with limited assistance
  • Ability to actively instruct for up to 3 hours
Reports To: Education Program Managers
Timing: This position is set to begin the week of September 7th.
Duration: Part-time weekdays and/or weekends, year-round, emphasis during school year; other opportunities available during summer
To Apply: Visit the Cincinnati Zoo’s Job Opportunities webpage. Application must include a resume and cover letter. For tips and tricks to creating a resume and/or cover letter, please visit Miami University’s Center for Career Exploration amp; Success.