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Zoo Exhibit Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The CALDWELL ZOO

Horticulture Internship

Tyler, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Maintain zoo landscapes to include watering, fertilizing, weeding, planting, etc. * Exhibit design considerations * Greenhouse production to include bedding plant and hanging basket maintenance

Houston Zoo

Graphic Designer

Houston, TX · On-site

Environmental or exhibit design experience About Houston Zoo Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical ...

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

Experience with reptile and amphibian exhibit design, including environmental parameter management ... John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures ...

City of Bloomington, IL

Zookeeper

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$50K/yr

Participate in discussions regarding capital improvements, exhibit design, and Master & Collection Plans. Chair or sit as a member of various zoo committees as assigned. * Participate in the ...

New

houstonzoo

Graphic Designer

Houston, TX

Environmental or exhibit design experience About Houston Zoo Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical ...

houstonzoo

Graphic Designer

Houston, TX

Environmental or exhibit design experience About Houston Zoo Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical ...

City of Boise, ID

Zoo Keeper

Boise, ID · On-site

$19.29 - $22.90/hr

... the design and layout of cages and related items to engage animals and prevent irritation and ... Trains animals to exhibit specific behaviors. Conducts various presentations, tours and classes for ...

New

City of Boise

Zoo Keeper

Boise, ID

$19.29 - $22.90/hr

... the design and layout of cages and related items to engage animals and prevent irritation and ... Trains animals to exhibit specific behaviors. Conducts various presentations, tours and classes for ...

Ideum

Exhibit Designer

Corrales, NM

$55K - $75K/yr

The role is focused on the design, integration, and coordination of exhibits and other scenic ... Experience with museums, zoos, aquariums, science centers, or other interpretive public spaces is a ...

Ideum

Exhibit Designer

Corrales, NM · On-site

The role is focused on the design, integration, and coordination of exhibits and other scenic ... Experience with museums, zoos, aquariums, science centers, or other interpretive public spaces is a ...

Ideum

Exhibit Designer

Corrales, NM · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

The role is focused on the design, integration, and coordination of exhibits and other scenic ... Experience with museums, zoos, aquariums, science centers, or other interpretive public spaces is a ...

SFZOO

Chief Animal Officer

San Francisco, CA

$180K - $200K/yr

Participate in master planning, exhibit design, and capital improvement projects * Oversee ... Represent the Zoo in professional associations and conservation initiatives (e.g., AZA programs ...

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Zoo Exhibit Design information

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$14

$27

$44

How much do zoo exhibit design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo exhibit design in the United States is $27.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 operations, staff, and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, with salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on the size and location of the zoo.

How much does a zoo designer make?

Zoo exhibit designers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Senior designers or those with specialized skills in habitat simulation or environmental enrichment can earn higher salaries. The role often requires knowledge of design software and understanding of animal habitats.

How to get a job in exhibition design?

To pursue a career in exhibition design, develop skills in graphic design, architecture, or interior design, and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. A bachelor's degree in a related field is often required, and proficiency with design software like AutoCAD or Adobe Creative Suite is beneficial. Building a strong portfolio and understanding project management can improve job prospects.

What is a Zoo Exhibit Design job?

A Zoo Exhibit Design job involves creating engaging, safe, and naturalistic habitats for animals in zoos and wildlife parks. Designers must balance animal welfare, visitor experience, and educational goals while considering environmental and sustainability factors. This role requires collaboration with zoologists, architects, and engineers to ensure the habitat meets the physical and behavioral needs of the animals. Tasks may include research, sketching concepts, overseeing construction, and ensuring regulatory compliance. The goal is to design exhibits that foster conservation awareness while providing enriching environments for both animals and visitors.

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

To thrive in Zoo Exhibit Design, you need a background in architecture, landscape design, or a related field, along with knowledge of animal welfare and habitat requirements. Proficiency with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and an understanding of industry standards like AZA accreditation guidelines are typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and strong problem-solving skills are vital for balancing animal needs with visitor experience and operational constraints. These skills ensure that exhibits are safe, engaging, sustainable, and compliant with professional standards.

What does a zoo designer do?

A zoo designer plans and creates animal exhibits, ensuring they are functional, safe, and engaging for visitors and animals. They use skills in architecture, landscape design, and environmental enrichment, often collaborating with biologists and engineers to develop realistic habitats. The role may require knowledge of safety standards, environmental sustainability, and the use of design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp.

What are some of the main challenges faced by professionals in zoo exhibit design?

Zoo exhibit designers commonly face the challenge of creating environments that meet the complex physical and psychological needs of diverse animal species while also engaging and educating the public. Balancing budget constraints, regulatory requirements, and the integration of evolving animal welfare standards into the design process can be demanding. Designers often collaborate with veterinarians, animal keepers, engineers, and educators to ensure the exhibits are functional, safe, and enriching for both animals and visitors. This multidisciplinary nature requires adaptability and continuous learning to keep up with best practices in both design and animal care.

More about Zoo Exhibit Design jobs
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Zoo Exhibit Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Exhibit Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,220 per year, or $28 per hour.
Horticulture Internship

Horticulture Internship

The CALDWELL ZOO

Tyler, TX • On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Fall 2026 paid internships are available at Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas in Horticulture.

The Caldwell Zoo is seeking highly motivated, hard-working, professional minded students who want to take advantage of educational opportunities to gain on-the-job experience in the zoological career field.

Learning opportunities/topics include:

  • Maintain zoo landscapes to include watering, fertilizing, weeding, planting, etc.
  • Exhibit design considerations
  • Greenhouse production to include bedding plant and hanging basket maintenance
  • Turf and walkway maintenance to include mowing, trimming, debris removal
  • Waste, litter, and recycling management
  • Visitor relations
  • Know and follow all emergency procedures and protocols
  • Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs and be able to work in all inclement weather conditions
  • Watch animal medical procedures
  • Attend a Veterinary Department meeting
  • Assist with daily projects
  • Shadow up to five other departments
Requirements
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Must be a sophomore in college or have a higher classification
  • Overall GPA must be 2.5 or higher
  • Negative TB Test

Duration

September 9th - December 22nd

* Please plan to arrive at least three business days before the start date to complete the onboarding process.

* Any time off requested during the internship (excluding illness or emergency) must be discussed in the interview and approved before starting the internship.


To be Considered:


Please apply and upload the following documents:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Unofficial Transcripts
Application deadline is 08/01/2026.