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Zoo Job Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX · On-site

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

City of El Paso

Zoo Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$160K - $175K/yr

None The City of El Paso is recruiting for the position of Zoo Director. We are seeking a highly experienced and accomplished professional with a Bachelor's degree or higher in zoo management ...

City of El Paso, TX

Zoo Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$160K - $175K/yr

ZOO GATE REVS ADMIN Opening Date: 01/15/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Exempt Requirements MOS Code: None The City of El Paso is recruiting for the position of Zoo Director. We are seeking a ...

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures excellent animal care and a dedication to conservation. As one of the top attractions in Grand ...

mkecounty

Evaluation Intern - Zoo

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15 - $20.04/hr

Evaluation Intern Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Range : $15.00 - $20.04 Job Summary: The Evaluation Intern assists with audience research and evaluation projects related to guest experience at the ...

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Zoo Job information

What are zoo jobs?

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.
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What job categories do people searching Zoo Job jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Job jobs are:
Zoo Job jobs near you
Zookeeper II Elephant

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston Zoo

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Houston Zoo rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

A successful candidate for this position is motivated, energetic, and a team-oriented individual with good problem solving written/oral communication, and organizational/interpersonal skills. This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking.
Our Mission: 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
  • Observes and evaluates animal condition, behavior and responses and communicates observations orally and on written reports.
  • Prepares and feeds appropriate diets, noting conformance of foods provided to diets prescribed for each animal.
  • Administers prescribed medications and dietary supplements and monitor food and medicine consumption.
  • Checks on integrity of enclosures and structures, ensuring safety and welfare of animals, Zoo visitors, and staff in accordance with established guidelines.
  • Maintains live plants within enclosures ensuring neat, attractive exhibits.
  • Performs minor repairs and preventative maintenance as necessary.
  • Maintains clean and organized exhibits, equipment, and keeper areas.
  • Improves the quality of life of the animal collection by providing environmental and behavioral enrichment opportunities.
  • Trains selected animals through operant conditioning for purposes of gaining cooperation for veterinary treatment and/or public demonstrations.
  • Installs exhibit furnishings, props, and decorations safely, attractively and in a manner consistent with Zoo guidelines.

Education and Experience
  • One year of experience in animal care in a zoo setting or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian is required, which may be gained through internships, volunteer experience, or employment.
  • Extensive domestic animal experience may qualify for substitution for exotic animal management experience.
  • Specific training and work experience in other settings, such as aquaculture, schools, nature centers, agricultural operations, or conservation centers may be considered on a case-by-case basis as fulfillment for the experience requirements.

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO
The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.
Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
Full-time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.
  • Medical and Prescription Drug
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
  • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Supplemental Life
  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
  • 401k, with employer match

Full-time and Part-Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.
  • Free Zoo Membership
  • Free Guest Passes
  • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
  • Free parking

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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