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Zoo Job Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interacts with and answers questions of zoo guests by providing information about zoo animals and policies, conducts tours and interviews as needed to meet the education and guest relations needs of ...

As a Zoo Educator, you'll facilitate school groups ages K-12 in STEM lessons including Penguineering, Exhibit Design, and provide behind the scenes tours of areas like our Commissary and Aquarium.

This position assists with preparing and teaching for the Fort Worth Zoo's Weekday Zoo School program. This position will also prepare and teach educational programming as needed. Essential Duties ...

Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and Responsibilities

The Zoo Hospital Manager is responsible for administrative and practice management for the Veterinary Department. This position provides direct leadership to Veterinary Technicians and Veterinary ...

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Intern Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of ...

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more ...

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Position Do you love animals, enjoy working outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care ...

Showing results 21-40

Zoo Job information

What is a zoo job?

Zoo jobs refer to a wide range of careers involved in the operation, maintenance, and mission of a zoo. These roles can include zookeepers who care for animals, veterinarians who provide medical care, educators who teach visitors, and maintenance staff who keep the facilities running smoothly. Some positions focus on animal welfare and conservation, while others handle guest services, administration, or research. Working at a zoo typically requires a passion for animals, strong communication skills, and sometimes specialized education or experience. Opportunities vary from entry-level to highly specialized roles depending on the size and focus of the zoo.

What are some common challenges faced by zoo staff in ensuring animal welfare while balancing visitor engagement?

Zoo staff often face the challenge of maintaining high standards of animal welfare while also creating engaging experiences for visitors. This involves carefully monitoring animal health and behavior, designing enriching habitats, and providing educational programs, all while minimizing stress for the animals. Collaboration with veterinarians, educators, and maintenance teams is key to achieving these goals. It requires strong observational skills, adaptability, and a commitment to ongoing learning about animal care and public interaction.

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

To thrive in a zoo job, you generally need a background in animal science, biology, or a related field, along with hands-on experience in animal care. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and sometimes first aid or wildlife handling certifications are typically required. Strong observational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, maintaining safety standards, and delivering educational experiences to the public.
More about Zoo Job jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Job jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Job job openings:
What states have the most Zoo Job jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Job jobs include:
Infographic showing various Zoo Job job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Educator - Zoo Camp (Seasonal)

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$18.40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Santa Barbara Zoo rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos


Job description

Are you passionate about connecting people of all ages to the wonders of wildlife and conservation? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking enthusiastic Educators to bring our mission to life through engaging Zoo Camp experiences. Join our team to inspire curiosity and foster a love for nature in a hands-on, fun, and creative environment!
Note: This position is fully outdoors and requires extensive walking through Zoo grounds (hills and inclines) in all weather conditions
Position Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Requirements: Applicant must be minimum 18 years of age. At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.Compensation: $18.40/hour
Schedule: Seasonal position, Up to 16-40 hours/work week during school breaks, vary during school year.
Spring Camp: March 30 - April 3
Summer Camp: June 15 - August 14 (Must commit to min 7 of the 10 weeks of Summer Camp)
Fall Camp: Nov 23-25 & 27
Winter Camp: Dec 21 - Dec 31 (No camp on Christmas Day 12/25 or New Year's Day 1/1)
JOB DESCRIPTION
SUMMARY:
Under general direction of the Education Manager and Education Team, Zoo Camp Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission through implementing Zoo Camps.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES include the following:
Zoo Camp:
  • Supervises groups of up to 15 children while delivering camp curriculum in an engaging, age-appropriate manner, working with a particular age group within the 3-13 age range.
  • Leads environmental and animal science activities, such as hands-on learning activities, games, crafts, stories, and songs.
  • Supervises and ensures the safety and well-being of assigned group.

SECONDARY DUTIES:
  • Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations.
  • Greets every guest with a smile.
  • Thanks guests for supporting and visiting the Zoo.
  • Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly.
  • Ensure the Zoo's presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, and reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions.
  • Associates with guests to assist and share information.
  • Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo's uniform dress code.
  • Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings.
  • Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge.

POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education or environmental sciences or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Minimum of 6 months experience in informal presentations.

License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prefer experience in an environmental education setting
  • Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check.
  • First Aid and CPR certification required
  • TB tests and Tetanus vaccinations as necessary
  • Authorized to work in the United States
    • At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Basic knowledge of biology and zoology preferred.
  • Ability to organize, plan, collaborate and implement educational presentations.
  • Skilled in improvisation.
  • Energetic and engaging personality.
  • Ability to present educational programs to diverse audiences and large groups of people.
  • Ability to envision and implement innovative solutions and ideas.
  • Ability to contribute to the creative process.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of computer software including word processing and database programs.
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests.
  • Ability to exercise safe work habits.
  • Awareness of, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals.

Physical Demands; Work Environment:
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally and 10 or fewer pounds frequently.
  • Ability to exert a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
  • Ability to run, kneel, sit on the ground/floor, squat, and stand for long periods.
  • Ability to negotiate the zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage.
  • Involves walking out-of-doors in all weather conditions.
  • Supportive and open employment culture.
  • Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including, electric carts, telephones, printers, two-way radios, projectors, and copiers.
  • Ability to work outdoors most of the day.

Tools Used:
  • Two-way radios
  • Electric cart
  • Personal computer and software (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
  • Printer
  • Telephone system
  • Bio Facts and various learning-based materials
  • Wagons

*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page to be considered for the position*
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The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute an employment contract and does not guarantee employment for any specified period. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.
At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.
Compensation: $18.40 per hour
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Do you love animals and working with people? Join the fun, caring, friendly, and energetic team at the Santa Barbara Zoo in our mission of preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural world and its living treasures through education, research, and recreation.
Once you apply, please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and is a fully accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Known as one of the world's most beautiful zoos, it is located on 30 acres of lush botanic gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is home to more than 146 animal species living in open, naturalistic habitats. Our wonderful collaborative team includes up to 220 employees and 50 volunteers.

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