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Zoo Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Elephants

Houston, TX · On-site

Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and ... Understands and applies the basic principles of animal enrichment as part of the daily management ...

Memphis Zoo

Zoo Hospital Manager (Full Time)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$57K/yr

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 ...

City of El Paso, TX

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Zoo Management, Veterinary Medicine, Business or Public Administration, or a related field, and six (6) years of zoological operations experience, including four (4) ...

Dallas Zoo

Veterinary Technician

Dallas, TX · On-site

Dallas Zoo Management, Inc. will cover this expense if hired. • Maintain LVT license in good standing and required continuing education (CE) Employment Type: Full-Time

City of El Paso

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Zoo Management, Veterinary Medicine, Business or Public Administration, or a related field, and six (6) years of zoological operations experience, including four (4) ...

Zoo New England

Full- Time Zookeeper

Boston, MA · On-site

Interacts with and answers questions of zoo guests by providing information about zoo animals and ... Participates in integrated pest control management as directed by the Pest Control Manager.  

Santa Barbara Zoo

Volunteer Supervisor

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$27.98 - $29.33/hr

The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking a Volunteer Supervisor to recruit, manage, and inspire a dedicated team of volunteers who help bring our mission to life. Join us in fostering meaningful connections ...

Santa Barbara Zoo

Volunteer Supervisor

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$27.98 - $29.33/hr

Manages volunteers at large Zoo events where many volunteers are needed * Manages information and communications using Volunteer Platform (currently: Volgitics) * Maintains files, records ...

Zoo New England

Full- Time Zookeeper

Boston, MA

Interacts with and answers questions of zoo guests by providing information about zoo animals and ... Participates in integrated pest control management as directed by the Pest Control Manager.

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Zoo Manager information

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How much do zoo manager jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average weekly pay for zoo manager in the United States is $826.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $413.46 and $961.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a zoo manager?

To become a zoo manager, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in zoology, biology, or a related field, along with several years of experience working with animals or in zoo operations. Many zoo managers also pursue advanced degrees or certifications in animal management or conservation and develop strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. Experience in animal care, exhibit design, and knowledge of safety regulations are also important for this role.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Manager, you need expertise in animal care, facility operations, and staff management, typically supported by a degree in zoology, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with animal management software, regulatory compliance systems, and budgeting tools is also important. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in managing teams and addressing the diverse challenges of running a zoo. These skills ensure animal welfare, regulatory adherence, and a positive experience for both staff and visitors.

What are some common challenges a zoo manager faces in balancing animal welfare with operational responsibilities?

Zoo Managers often navigate the complex balance between ensuring top-tier animal care and managing operational tasks such as budgeting, staffing, and guest services. Prioritizing animal welfare requires coordinating with veterinarians, curators, and keepers to maintain proper habitats and enrichment, while also handling logistical duties and regulatory compliance. A key challenge is making decisions that support both animal health and the zoo's financial sustainability, often requiring creative problem-solving and strong leadership. Collaboration with diverse teams is essential to address unforeseen issues quickly and maintain high standards across all areas.

How much money does a zoo manager make?

A zoo manager's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on the size of the zoo, location, and experience. Higher salaries are common at larger or more prominent institutions, and managerial roles often require relevant education and leadership skills.

What does a zoo manager do?

A Zoo Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a zoo, ensuring the welfare of animals, and managing staff such as keepers, educators, and veterinarians. They coordinate animal care, develop and implement policies, manage budgets, and work to ensure the zoo meets all regulatory and safety standards. Zoo Managers may also be involved in conservation programs, public education initiatives, and community outreach. Their role requires strong leadership skills, knowledge of animal husbandry, and effective communication with various stakeholders.
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Zoo Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,966 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Senior Zoologist - Children's Zoo/Carnivores

Dallas Zoo

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 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

JOB SUMMARY
This is a senior-level position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding
animal care for species in the section: food preparation, feeding, exhibit maintenance, pest control, and reproductive management. Zoologists participate in operant conditioning and husbandry programs, provide approved environmental enrichment, work collaboratively to improve animal exhibits, and prepare and conduct educational presentations and tours for zoo guests. Senior Zoologists may act as team leaders on specific projects, as assigned, and provide crucial guidance and training to less senior staff.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide overall daily care of assigned animals and exhibits to ensure animal health, safety, and
welfare, staff and public safety as set forth by AZA, USDA, and DZM to include:
Observe and monitor animals' general health and behavior, reporting any abnormal behavior to
manager and/or veterinary staff;
Prepare and provide food for assigned animals, following written instructions, provide water and
administer medication as instructed to ensure proper nutrition and health;
Clean animal exhibits, holding pens, food prep areas, and equipment, maintaining a high level of
sanitation, conducting pest control activities and reporting any mechanical defects that would
endanger the animal, zoo staff, and/or guests;
Achieve the highest standards of animal welfare and wellness by providing environmental
enrichment and training sessions, using operant conditioning, as applicable;
Participate in or assist with the capture and restraint of a variety of taxa including dangerous
species
Prepare and update animal records, reports and surveys, assisting in research projects as necessaryto ensure thorough documentation and enhanced knowledge of animal biology;
Perform general maintenance and repair of exhibits: painting, repairing fences and shelters, abatingerosion, planting ground cover and removing weeds;
Provide assistance with animal transfers and/or procedures as directed;
Interact positively and professionally with animal care and veterinary staff and volunteers;
Actively encourage interest in wildlife through positive interaction with zoo guests via educational
presentations focused on animals, biology, conservation, and environmental issues;
Utilize the enrichment item/device proposal form to create new enrichment ideas and items to be
added to taxa repertoires and properly record the results of enrichment items after each use;
Collaborate with other zoo personnel as needed to meet the zoo's mission. This can include, but is
not limited to, assisting and participating in media events, special tours, and public relations projects;
Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups;
Understand and support Dallas Zoo's Strategic and Master Plans and departmental collection plans;
Study specific reference materials pertinent to animal care, behavior and natural history as assigned;
Follow all safety protocols and understand the animal keeper's role in emergency procedures,
responding to emergencies as required;
Be able to supervise and train volunteers and interns within department as needed; eligible to act asan assigned mentor to interns and volunteers responsible for counseling, coaching, and ensuring
follow up on assigned intern/volunteer goals
Assist with the beautification of our park by removing trash and debris whenever you see it;
Assist with and raise awareness for AZA SAFE programs;
Eligible to serve in Chair positions on Dallas Zoo Management internal committees
Perform other duties as assigned.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field plus four years of paid animal care experience is required; A Bachelor's degree in an animal science, biology, or related science field plus three years of paid animal care experience is preferred;
Must have knowledge of animal care and basic husbandry skills, and at least three years preferred of exotic animal care experience at an AZA-accredited facility (ideally with carnivores);
Must be a flexible, efficient, self-motivated team player, and solution-oriented: finding creative
solutions to complex challenges;
Must have basic knowledge of research techniques and practices, with solid observation skills;
Must be capable of practicing, or willing to learn, safe methods of capture and restraint for a variety
of taxa (which may include potentially dangerous species);
Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees,
interns, volunteers, and zoo guests;
Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, following instructions and
documenting animal care activities appropriately;
Ability to represent the Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with management, other employees & zoo guests;
Must be able to walk, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, twist, reach above head, pull bend, climb stairs
and ladders and carry up to 50 lbs;
Must be able to work holidays and weekends, both regular and irregular hours as required;
Regular, reliable and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position;
Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot or inclement weather;
Successful candidates must complete pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB
test;
Must have a valid driver's license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by
personnel assigned to this job and is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties to be assigned.
Employment Type: Full-Time

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