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Zoo Manager Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Zoo Job ID: 13091 Pay: $17.89 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Perform greenhouse management tasks, including production of consumable plants, structure ...

Zoo Job ID: 13091 Pay: $17.89 per hour Work Schedule: Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive ... Perform greenhouse management tasks, including production of consumable plants, structure ...

General Manager

Wichita, KS · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

SSA Group at Sedgwick County Zoo is looking for a talented General Manager to join our team! All applications should be submitted within 7-days following posting of the job; applications will be ...

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Zoo Manager information

See Kansas salary details

$186

$6.8K

How much do zoo manager jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average weekly pay for zoo manager in Kansas is $729.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $365.06 and $848.98 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.

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

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Kansas are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Zoo Manager job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,937 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Zoological Manager - Birds - ZOO

Sedgwick County

Wichita, KS • On-site

$23.99/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Sedgwick County rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

664th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Department: Zoo
Job ID: 13125
Pay: $23.99 per hour
Work Schedule:
Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation reviews, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at SCBenefits.
Supervises, trains, and monitors zookeepers in the care and management of birds within the assigned Zoo areas. This position requires occasional participation in the care of birds when covering zookeeper shifts. Ideally this will be no more than 16 hours per week but may on occasion be more. Inspects facilities for security, safety and for repair and maintenance. Interacts and provides customer service to all Zoo-defined customers. This position participates in a mandatory on-call rotation.
Supervision of Zookeepers
  • Supervise and evaluate performance of zookeepers.
  • Plan, schedule, and assign work duties within zoological area.
  • Monitor and acquire area supplies and resources under the direction of curator.
  • Train and mentor zookeepers, recognize performance deficiencies, and take corrective action when needed.
  • Produce SOPs and other documents for areas of responsibility, including employees, facilities, and animals within the area.
  • Supervise and monitor animal introductions and animal restraint.
  • Participate and assist curator and registrar in planning animal transfer activities. Work with veterinary staff to facilitate associated medical testing needs.

Animal Well-being, Care and Management
  • Ensure animals are housed and cared for in ways that meet all Zoo-defined goals.
  • Handle animals for husbandry needs, medical purposes, and in preparation for transport.
  • Maintain a current understanding of animal natural history and terminology. Interpret animal behavior, and recognize abnormalities and potential medical conditions. Under the direction of veterinarians and/or curator, administer medications or treatments as needed.
  • Maintain a comprehensive understanding of AZA Accreditation Standards, as pertains to all job duties.
  • Communicate observations of animal behavior and health condition to veterinary department and/or curators, administer medications or treatments, as needed.
  • Monitor incubation process of eggs; record weights and size. Set eggs in incubators, monitor temperature and humidity, candle eggs to determine fertility, and assist in egg hatching, if required.
  • Drive Zoological Society-owned vehicles, as needed, to care for or transfer animals to other zoological facilities. Animal transfer trips may occasionally require overnight travel.

Area Maintenance
  • Ensure service areas, animal habitats, and public viewing areas meet safety requirements and are properly maintained.
  • Ensure all areas are clean, organized, and free of clutter. Ensure public areas are clean, presentable, and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Monitor and ensure usability and availability of tools used regularly by team: wheel barrows, rakes, shovels, hoses, scrub brooms, tubs, and a variety of other tools used in the care of animals.
  • Regularly inspect animal habitats and associated facilities for security and safety.
  • Complete or conduct minor repairs to facilities, as needed.
  • Identify and communicates any pest control problems to the veterinary department and curator.
  • Participate in an on-call rotation during emergency situations.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Environmental Resources, Wildlife Management, or a related field. Two years of animal care experience working with birds. Per Sedgwick County policy, this is a driving level position that requires a valid US driver's license without restrictions and current proof of automobile insurance.
Preferred Qualifications: Three years of animal care experience working with birds at an AZA Facility.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws. Please find more information under the following link. Apply for a Job | Sedgwick County, Kansas

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