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Zoo Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Oakland Zoo

Marketing Manager, Marketing

Oakland, CA · On-site

$71K - $83K/yr

Manage Oakland Zoo's website, including conceptualizing and creating pages, maintaining the content management system, and ensuring the website is accurate and up to date. * Partner with Lead Graphic ...

Oakland Zoo

Marketing Manager, Marketing

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$71K - $83K/yr

Manage Oakland Zoo's website, including conceptualizing and creating pages, maintaining the content management system, and ensuring the website is accurate and up to date. * Partner with Lead Graphic ...

Oakland Zoo

Marketing Manager, Marketing

Oakland, CA · On-site

$71K - $83K/yr

Manage Oakland Zoo's website, including conceptualizing and creating pages, maintaining the content management system, and ensuring the website is accurate and up to date. * Partner with Lead Graphic ...

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Zoo Manager information

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.

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.

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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs in California?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Manager jobs in California?

For Zoo Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Zoo Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Zoo Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Zoo Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Zoo Manager job openings:

Zoo Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, and 86% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Educator - Zoo Camp (Seasonal)

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

Santa Barbara Zoo
Museums and Historical Sites • 51 - 200 employees

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

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Santa Barbara Zooexternal

$18.40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

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*
- -
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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