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Zoo Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

They perform advanced animal care and management, including but not limited to animal procedures ... John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures ...

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Food Lead

Battle Creek, MI

$14 - $19/hr

... zoo membership. SEASONAL FOOD LEAD Mission Statement: Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve. REPORTS TO: General Manager of Restaurant amp; Culinary ...

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Line Cook

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

... zoo membership. SEASONAL LINE COOK Mission Statement: Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve. REPORTS TO: Seasonal Food Leads or General Manager of ...

John Ball Zoo

Facilities Maintenance II

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$22.04/hr

Ability to interact positively and appropriately with coworkers, supervisors, managers, Zoo guests, contractors, concessionaires, and members of the general public with diverse cultural and socio ...

National Veterinary Associates

We also service the animals of the local zoo. Students will work closely with the supervising ... and medical management of patients. In addition to practicing their clinical skills, student ...

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Zoo Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$185

$6.8K

How much do zoo manager jobs pay per week?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average weekly pay for zoo manager in Michigan is $725.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $363.08 and $844.38 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is it hard to get hired at the zoo?

Getting hired as a zoo manager can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience in animal care, management, or conservation, along with a bachelor's or higher degree in a related field. Strong leadership skills, certifications, and knowledge of zoo operations can improve chances, but the hiring process typically involves multiple interviews and background checks.

What do zoo managers do?

Zoo managers oversee the daily operations of a zoo, including staff management, budgeting, and ensuring the well-being of animals. They coordinate animal care, visitor services, and compliance with safety and conservation standards, often requiring knowledge of animal behavior and management tools.

How to 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. Leadership skills, knowledge of animal care, and familiarity with conservation practices are also important, and some positions may require advanced degrees or certifications in animal management or conservation. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for overseeing staff and managing daily operations.

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 is the highest paying job in a zoo?

The highest paying job in a zoo is typically the Director or Executive Director, who oversees all operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size and funding of the institution.

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 Michigan? The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Zoo Manager jobs in Michigan? For Zoo Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Zoo Manager jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Manager jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Zoo Manager jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Zoo Manager job openings:
Zoo Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Manager job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,732 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

John Ball Zoo

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

John Ball Zoo rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 36 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

SENIOR ZOOKEEPER
The Area 2 Senior Zookeeper performs general daily animal care functions including the maintenance of live exhibits and holding facilities, animal training, diet preparation and feeding, and enrichment delivery. This position guides the team in daily operations, serves as a resource and provides training for all animal care staff, volunteers, and interns in the development of job skills related to daily animal care, and, under manager direction, liaises with other teams and departments. This position is primarily responsible for amphibians and reptiles (ex: small crocodile species, large pythons, iguanas, monitor lizards, and venomous.
This is a union position. Pay will be based on experience: $20.62 - $26.33 per hour
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SENIOR ZOOKEEPER AT JBZ
The Senior Zookeeper monitors animals in Area 2 (including amphibians, reptiles, primates, and aquatics) to ensure that they are physically and mentally healthy, uninjured, and exhibiting normal behavior. They perform advanced animal care and management, including but not limited to animal procedures, escape response, capture and restraint, transports, introductions, and training, as well as performing daily inspections of exhibits and holding areas to assess environment quality. They complete required documentation, report concerns to animal care managers, and provide guidance and assistance to teams on projects as directed by animal care leadership. They also assist with the development and writing of standard operating procedures and department policies and procedures.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR ZOOKEEPER AT JBZ
  • Bachelors degree in life science or related field
  • At least five years of experience in exotic animal care or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience in animal care
  • At least three years of experience working with venomous animals and teaching others safe venomous handling
  • Experience with reptile and amphibian exhibit design, including environmental parameter management, exhibit building, and water quality management
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to ensure thorough and effective communication with a broad spectrum of stakeholders include, but not limited to: team members, managers, volunteers, leadership, and guests.
  • Experience leading a team and mentoring others preferred.
  • Ability to develop positive professional relationships with all levels of staff and volunteers.
  • Ability to work with potentially deadly animals (PDAs).
  • Ability to act as the point of contact for area when managers are not present - including addressing animal/space issues (unplanned medical issues, escapes, malfunctioning/damaged infrastructure); liaising with other departments and teams as needed; making and communicating changes as needed.
  • Experience developing and writing SOPs, department policies, and animal behavior plans preferred.
  • Demonstrated computer competence to complete required record keeping and communication. Experience using ZIMS preferred.
  • Dive-certified or ability to obtain dive certification
  • Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
WHO WE ARE
At John Ball Zoo, our mission is to inspire our community to be actively engaged in the conservation of wildlife and our natural environment. 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 Rapids, we welcome over 700,000 guests each year who are able to experience over 2,000 animals of over 230 species that represent the beautiful wildlife living in our world! We are passionate about our mission focused on education and conservation but know that our 120+ full time and 350 seasonal people guided by our core values accomplish this mission. Our core values are:
  • Conservation
  • Education
  • Community
  • Celebrate
  • Compassion
BENEFITS AT JBZ
  • We offer incredibly competitive benefits. This includes FREE:
  • Medical plan option
  • Short-term disability
  • Long-term disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Dental amp; Vision for employee amp; family
  • 12 Full weeks of parental leave
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
We offer generous Vacation and Personal time and 11 Holidays each year. We offer a 4% match and 3% employer contribution to your 401k, zoo discounts, employee-only zoo experiences, tuition reimbursement, additional medical benefits to meet your and your family's needs, and a FREE Premium Zoo membership for you and your family.
WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Employee will work in various environments both inside and outside and will be exposed to inclement weather; pollen, mold, dust, dirt, and other airborne contaminants; and temperature variations. Must be able to tolerate exposure to anti-bacterial, disinfectants and other cleaning compounds. Must be able to wear all required protective clothing and equipment. Must be able to work near exotic and domestic animals and tolerate exposure to animal dander, animal wastes, and other zoonotic contaminants. Must be able to lift at least 50lbs and stand for at least two hours. Must be able and available to be tested annually for tuberculosis. Must be, or able to be, immunized against Hepatitis-B and rabies.
NEW TO GRAND RAPIDS
Come live in the beautiful Grand Rapids where you can find live music, art festivals, outdoor recreation, and nationally ranked food and craft beverages. You can drive 20 minutes and be by the beautiful Lake Michigan, hike and kayak by the Grand River, or stay downtown and enjoy a variety of food and drinks. Grand Rapids is known as Americas’ best beer city, nation's craft beverage capital, and a top 20 U.S. Foodie city. There is a little bit of everything here in Grand Rapids to attract everyone including our growing zoo!
John Ball Zoo is a drug free facility under federal regulations. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. We invite individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, hairstyles, or any other characteristic to join our team where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated.
We envision a future of being a world-class zoo, a premier education facility, a renowned conservation center, and a wildly successful national visitor attraction. Want to help make the adventure come alive? Apply today and join us!

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