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Zoo Horticulture Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... horticulture, food science, research, or conservation work. The Dallas Zoo's Animal Health teams work together to ensure the welfare of nearly 2,000 animals representing around 400 diverse species.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 2019, LLPA is in an exciting phase ... The Horticulture Manager provides strategic and operational leadership for all botanical activities ...

New

Work with external contractors performing tree work, ensuring their compliance with Zoo standards and safety regulations. * Assist the Horticulture Manager in tracking expenses related to ...

Horticulturist

Akron, OH · On-site

$20.89 - $24.75/hr

College degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, botany, or related field preferred. Pesticide license is preferred (or must be willing to obtain license within 6 months - zoo paid training)

Horticulturist

Akron, OH · On-site

$20.89 - $24.75/hr

College degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, botany, or related field preferred. Pesticide license is preferred (or must be willing to obtain license within 6 months - zoo paid training)

Maintains horticulture and grounds in and around animal habitats using tools such as lawn mowers ... Supervises and assigns work to zoo volunteers and interns scheduled in keeper's area of ...

Safely operate battery and electric power tools. * Assist all zoo departments with departmental repairs or maintenance related initiatives; this may include grounds, horticulture, and animal ...

Safely operate battery and electric power tools. * Assist all zoo departments with departmental repairs or maintenance related initiatives; this may include grounds, horticulture, and animal ...

Safely operate battery and electric power tools. * Assist all zoo departments with departmental repairs or maintenance related initiatives; this may include grounds, horticulture, and animal ...

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Zoo Horticulture information

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$12

$22

$36

How much do zoo horticulture jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo horticulture in the United States is $22.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Zoo Horticulture, a strong background in botany, horticulture, or a related field is essential, often supported by relevant certifications and practical plant care experience. Familiarity with irrigation systems, horticultural equipment, chemical application, and knowledge of plant identification are typically required. Strong observational skills, teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability help professionals coordinate with animal care staff and handle changing environments. These competencies ensure healthy, sustainable landscapes that enhance animal habitats and the visitor experience.

What is a zoo horticulture?

A Zoo Horticulture job involves managing and maintaining plant collections within a zoo to support animal habitats, visitor experiences, and conservation efforts. Professionals in this role design and care for landscapes that provide enrichment for animals, create immersive environments for guests, and ensure plant health. They collaborate with animal care teams to select safe and beneficial vegetation while also promoting sustainability and education.

What does a zoo horticulture do?

A zoo horticulturist is responsible for designing, planting, and maintaining the landscapes and plant collections within a zoo. They ensure that the plants support animal habitats, promote environmental enrichment, and adhere to safety and conservation standards. The role often requires knowledge of botany, gardening skills, and sometimes certifications in horticulture or landscape design.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in zoo horticulture?

A typical day in Zoo Horticulture involves tasks such as planting, pruning, fertilizing, and monitoring plant health, while working alongside animal care and maintenance teams to create safe, naturalistic environments for zoo residents. You might also help design and install themed landscapes, assist in special exhibits, and respond to weather or animal-related challenges that impact plant life. Work is often outdoors and may include early mornings or occasional weekends to accommodate the needs of the zoo and its animals. Collaboration with zookeepers and educators is common, as you'll support both animal wellbeing and visitor engagement. This dynamic role is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work in a unique, mission-driven setting.

Can I get a job at the zoo horticulture with no experience?

Zoo horticulture positions often require some knowledge of plant care and landscape maintenance, but entry-level roles may be available for those with little or no experience. Relevant skills such as basic gardening, willingness to learn, and certifications like OSHA or safety training can improve chances of employment. Prior experience is not always mandatory for entry-level positions, but demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to learn is beneficial.
More about Zoo Horticulture jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Horticulture jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Horticulture job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo Horticulture jobs? The most popular types of Zoo Horticulture jobs are:
What states have the most Zoo Horticulture jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Horticulture jobs include:
Infographic showing various Zoo Horticulture job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,806 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

General Application - Animal Health

Dallas Zoo

Dallas, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Dallas Zoo rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Summary

Are you passionate about advancing animal health, nutrition, and welfare? Submit your application here to be considered for future opportunities within the Animal Health team at the Dallas Zoo! Even if your experience does not follow a traditional path or meet every listed qualification, we value diverse perspectives and backgrounds, including experience gained through veterinary practice, animal care, nutrition, horticulture, food science, research, or conservation work.

The Dallas Zoo's Animal Health teams work together to ensure the welfare of nearly 2,000 animals representing around 400 diverse species. Our professionals combine veterinary expertise, precise dietary management, and field-based conservation initiatives to deliver exceptional care and uphold the Zoo's mission of Engaging People & Saving Wildlife.

The Dallas Zoo has a well-equipped hospital that has an in-house clinical pathology and a dedicated Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) PCR lab, portable digital radiography, ultrasound, rigid and flexible endoscopy, therapeutic laser and more.

The Dallas Zoo's Animal Nutrition and Browse Programs operate under the guidance of an experienced Zoo Nutritionist, ensuring balanced, science-based diets and fresh, safe plant material for a diverse animal collection. The Nutrition team prepares and delivers daily diets with precision and care, while the Browse team harvests and cultivates browse on-grounds and through community partnerships to support animal health, welfare, and enrichment.

Whether you are an early-career veterinarian, a veterinary technician, or if you have an interest in animal nutrition or our browse program, you'll find opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

By applying through this posting, you'll be added to our talent community for upcoming roles and may be contacted when positions become available that align with your background and interests. We encourage you to check back regularly and apply directly to specific roles that match your interests, background, and skills.

Located just three miles south of downtown Dallas, the 106-acre Dallas Zoo is the oldest and largest in Texas. Founded with just two deer and two mountain lions in 1888 as the first Zoo in the Southwest. This city-owned and privately managed zoo is a thriving example of a successful public-private partnership. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) for 35 years, the Zoo provides a home for more than 2,000 animals representing over 400 species.
For full-time staff, the Dallas Zoo offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, PTO, and sick time. Compensation is commensurate with experience and education. The Dallas Zoo participates in in-situ and ex-situ conservation programs and encourages and supports staff to participate.
Summaries of the work of our Animal Health Teams are below.
Animal Nutrition/Browse Program
The Animal Nutrition Center (ANC) ensures the highest standards of dietary care for the Zoo's diverse animal collection. Under the guidance of an experienced management team, the team prepares and delivers balanced diets, maintains strict food safety protocols, and collaborates with veterinarians and animal care staff to support optimal health and welfare.

The Browse Program provides fresh, safe plant material to support animal diets, health, and enrichment. Guided by the Zoo Nutritionist, the team harvests, identifies, distributes, and cultivates browse from sources both on-grounds and from community partners, ensuring a sustainable and high-quality supply. Browse Specialists work closely with Animal Care and Horticulture teams to meet species-specific needs.
Clinical Support
Veterinary Technicians at the Dallas Zoo play a critical role in supporting the medical care and welfare of the Zoo's diverse animal collection. Working alongside veterinarians and hospital staff, they assist with exams, surgical procedures, diagnostics, and treatments while ensuring the highest standards of safety and animal welfare. Technicians rotate through clinical, laboratory, and pharmacy duties and play a key role in emergency response, anesthesia monitoring, and medical behavior training.
Veterinarians
Veterinarians at Dallas Zoo provide exceptional medical and surgical care for a diverse animal collection. Working alongside a skilled team of fellow veterinarians, licensed veterinary technicians, and hospital zoologists, they engage in a comprehensive preventive medicine program, perform diagnostics and procedures across taxa, and contribute to research, clinical teaching, and conservation initiatives that advance the field of zoological medicine.

The department supports a benefited full-time, year-long Veterinary Internship program, offering early-career veterinarians immersive, hands-on experience in all aspects of zoological medicine under the mentorship of our veterinary team.

Whether serving as a staff veterinarian or as a mentor to interns and veterinary students, these professionals play a vital role in upholding the Zoo's commitment to excellence in animal health, professional development, and collaborative care.

Join us in Engaging People & Saving Wildlife every day!
Employment Type: Variable Hour / Temporary

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