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Zoo Exhibit Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

County of Mecklenburg, NC

Senior Aquarist

Huntersville, NC · On-site

$52K - $68K/yr

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • Experience working in an aquarium or zoo setting highly preferred • ... of exhibit life support systems, including routine preventative maintenance on equipment. • ...

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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 Jun 9, 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 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 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
What cities are hiring for Zoo Exhibit Design jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Exhibit Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Exhibit Design jobs? The most popular types of Zoo Exhibit Design jobs are:
What states have the most Zoo Exhibit Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Exhibit Design jobs include:
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Zoo Exhibit Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Exhibit Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Internship, and 91% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,220 per year, or $28 per hour.

Senior Environmental Quality Keeper

Z&A Management

Folsom, CA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures
Lead the Environments That Keep Life Thriving

Behind every thriving animal is a perfectly balanced environment.
At NorCal Aquarium and Wildlife Adventures our Senior Environmental Quality Keeper plays a critical leadership role in ensuring that every habitat—from complex aquatic systems to dynamic terrestrial enclosures-supports the health, behavior, and well-being of our animal collection.
This is more than monitoring systems. It’s about owning the environments that make exceptional animal care possible, leading a team, and shaping the standards that define our facility.
If you are highly detail-oriented, technically skilled, and passionate about animal welfare at the highest level-this is your opportunity to lead, influence, and make a measurable impact.
What You’ll Do:
Environmental Systems Ownership:
  • Oversee and maintain optimal environmental conditions across all aquatic and terrestrial habitats. 
  • Monitor and analyze key parameters including water quality (pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrites/nitrates), temperature, humidity, air quality, and substrate conditions.
  • Proactively identify trends, troubleshoot imbalances, and implement corrective actions before issues escalate.
  • Ensure all systems consistently meet species-specific needs and industry best practices.

Leadership & Team Development:
  • Support and guide a team of Animal Keepers in executing daily environmental monitoring and habitat care.
  • Train and mentor team members on environmental standards, testing procedures, and best practices.
  • Hold the team accountable to high standards of cleanliness, safety, and consistency.
  • Partner with Curators to elevate team performance and operational excellence.

Collaboration & Operational Impact:
  • Work cross-functionally with Curators, Veterinary staff, and the national husbandry team to support animal health and breeding success.
  • Partner with Facilities and Life Support System (LSS) Technicians to ensure filtration, HVAC, and support systems operate effectively.
  • Contribute to exhibit planning, upgrades, and new habitat design with a focus on environmental optimization.
  • Provide clear, data-driven reporting on habitat conditions and system performance.

Animal Welfare & Quality Standards:
  • Ensure all environmental conditions meet or exceed animal welfare standards and internal SOPs.
  • Monitor how environmental changes impact animal behavior, health, and reproduction.
  • Oversee and ensure completion of routine deep cleans across marine and terrestrial exhibits.
  • Continuously look for opportunities to improve habitat quality and animal outcomes.

Compliance & Risk Management:
  • Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations (USDA, Fish & Wildlife, DNR, etc.).
  • Ensure accurate, consistent record-keeping of environmental data and habitat conditions.
  • Identify and mitigate risks related to environmental systems and animal habitats.

What You Bring:
Required:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in animal care, including at least 2 years focused on habitat or environmental management.
  • Strong expertise in water quality management, filtration systems, and life support systems.
  • Deep understanding of environmental needs across a variety of species and habitats.
  • Proven leadership experience, including training, coaching, or overseeing team members.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to act quickly in dynamic environments.
  • Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.

Preferred:
  • Experience with aquarium or zoo life support systems (LSS).
  • Certification in water quality testing or environmental monitoring.
  • Experience contributing to habitat design or exhibit planning.

What Success Looks Like:
  • Environmental systems run consistently, proactively-not reactively.
  • Animals are thriving, with conditions supporting natural behaviors and health.
  • The team is confident, trained, and executing at a high level.
  • Data is accurate, actionable, and used to drive decisions.
  • The facility meets or exceeds all compliance and welfare standards.

Work Environment:
  • Active, hands-on role requiring standing, walking, lifting, and working with equipment.
  • Exposure to water systems, chemicals, and varying environmental conditions.
  • Flexibility required, including weekends, holidays, and occasional after-hours response.

Why Join Us?
  • Play a critical leadership role in animal welfare and environmental excellence.
  • Work with a passionate, mission-driven team.
  • Influence habitat design, systems, and long-term operational success.
  • Grow your career in a facility committed to high standards and continuous improvement.