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Zoo Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Food Service - Associate

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

SSA Group @ Detroit Zoo Adults 18+ Weekdays and Weekend availability (zoo open 7 days/week ... Food Service Supervisor (if applicable) and/or Food Service Operations Manager(s) Responsibilities

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 ...

Food Service - Associate

Royal Oak, MI ยท On-site

$13 - $17/hr

SSA Group @ Detroit Zoo Adults 18+ Weekdays and Weekend availability (zoo open 7 days/week ... Food Service Supervisor (if applicable) and/or Food Service Operations Manager(s) Responsibilities

Operations Manager

Brooklyn, MI ยท On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

... zoos and cultural institutions, theaters, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy ... Experience supervising or managing team members in a fast-paced environment. * Working knowledge of ...

Operations Manager

Brooklyn, MI ยท On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

... zoos and cultural institutions, theaters, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy ... Experience supervising or managing team members in a fast-paced environment. * Working knowledge of ...

Operations Manager

Brooklyn, MI ยท On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

... zoos and cultural institutions, theaters, and convention centers; as well as the Super Bowl, Grammy ... Experience supervising or managing team members in a fast-paced environment. * Working knowledge of ...

Veterinarian

Warren, MI ยท On-site

Cold therapy laser for pain management * Digital and dental radiology, ultrasound, and in-house ... Nearby Detroit attractions - from the Motown Museum and Detroit Zoo to cheering on the Tigers ...

Showing results 21-40

Zoo Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$185

$6.8K

How much do zoo manager jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 22, 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 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 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 cities in Michigan are hiring for Zoo Manager jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Zoo Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Zoo Manager job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,732 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Food Service - Associate

ssagroup

Detroit, MI โ€ข On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

SSA Group @ Detroit Zoo

Adults 18+
Weekdays and Weekend availability (zoo open 7 days/week)
Upcoming Fall & Winter Events with evening hour opportunity
  • Zoo Boo (Fri-Sun nights in October)
  • Wild Lights (Various nights from mid-November thru January 3, 2027)

Food Service Associateย 

Who are we:ย 

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused.

We bring together admissions, culinary, and retail with innovation and human connection to shape a seamless guest journey.

Our focus is on people, innovation, and operational intelligence as a means to create special moments with lasting impact. We call it 452 Hospitality, the foundation of how we serve our partners and their communities.

Position Title: Food Service Associate ย 

Reports to: Food Service Supervisor (if applicable) and/or Food Service Operations Manager(s)ย 

ย 

Responsibilities

  • Live outย 452 Hospitality by delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client.
  • Supports restaurant prep (FOH and line) for daily operation.ย 

  • Meets daily quick service, food service, safety and quality, availability, merchandising and guest service standards.ย 

  • Participates in safety logs including food temperatures, rotation and waste as necessary.ย 

  • Ensures proper uniform, hygiene, hand-washing and glove use with self.ย 

  • Maintains a SSAfe work environment by abiding to all SSAFETY rules.ย 

  • Follows through daily prep and items lists, as assigned.ย 

  • Actively helps to support operation in assigned role, supporting holes as necessary.ย 

  • Actively and efficiently responds to guest and client feedback, with report to the supervisor to ensure that any potential complaints are mitigate against further occurrence.ย 

  • Communicates up to the Restaurant Supervisor and/or Food Operations Manager in regard to any issues seen with daily service or quality.ย 

  • Remains knowledgeable of all menu items, prices and specials for sharing with guests.ย 

  • Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.ย 

  • Maintains a clean, safe and organized work environment.ย 

  • Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.ย 

  • Responsibly geared towards presenting a clean and welcome experience for guests through upholding sanitation requirements.ย 

Job Requirementsย 

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.ย ย 

  • Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized.ย 

  • Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.ย 

  • Ideal candidate is a team player, personable, professional, upbeat and energetic, and takes initiative.ย 

  • Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (10-35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.ย 

  • Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.ย 

IDEA + Belongingย ย 

  • Promote an inclusive & supportive approach within the Brand team, with networking continuing at all units.ย 

  • Focuses on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels.ย 

  • Leads by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; displays knowledge of efforts in business application as well as giving adequate opportunity for teaching to unit staff as necessary.ย ย 

  • Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On opportunities of giving back.ย 

Previous Experienceย 

  • None Requiredย 

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job description. SSA Group reserves the right to revise the job description or to require that other or different tasks are performed when circumstances change (i.e. emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs or technological developments)ย ย 

SSA Group, LLC. is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and equal opportunity through our commitment to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. ย ย 

Compensation and Benefits

  • Eligible for overtime pay.
  • On-Demand Pay Program: Get access to a portion of earned wages before payday.
  • Meal Plan & Employee Discounts at applicable locations.
  • Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (must be 21 years or older, eligible after one year of employment with 1,000 hours worked, available to enroll during Open Enrollment Periods).
  • Tuition Discount through Partnership College.
  • Up to 8 hours of Bereavement Leave
  • Holiday pay of 1.5ร— the regular rate is provided for hours worked on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
  • Paid sick leave is provided in accordance with applicable state and local laws. Accrual rates, caps, and usage rules vary by location.ย 

Locations include: Arizona, California, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Washington, D.C..ย  Colorado: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours per year, under the Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA).ย  Maryland: Employees accrue at least 1 hour of paid sick and safe leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, as required under the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act.ย  Washington: Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked, in accordance with the Seattle Paid Sick and Safe Time.

SSA Holdings and its affiliated companies, including SSA Group, A&F Souvenir, Cinchio Solutions, and Behavioral Essentials, are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. A diverse team strengthens our collective impact.

All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice ("Notice").ย ย 

San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Please see the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" documentfor more information. By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the "Fair Chance Ordinance - Know Your Rights" document.ย 

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