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Zoo Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dallas Zoo

Senior Zoologist - Birds

Dallas, TX · On-site

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 ...

Memphis Zoo

Zookeeper - Farm (Full Time)

Memphis, TN · On-site

Stress Management/Composure. * Teamwork Orientation. * Written/Verbal/Oral Communication ... While performing the duties of the job, the employee will frequently work outdoors (Zoo grounds)

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II, Wildlife Connections

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

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 ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX · On-site

Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and ... Extensive domestic animal experience may qualify for substitution for exotic animal management ...

Dallas Zoo Management

Digital Designer

Dallas, TX · On-site

... Manage and maintain the Zoo's digital asset library and content management systems • Perform other design assignments and support duties as assigned QUALIFICATIONS • Bachelor's degree (or ...

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Zoo Manager information

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$211

$7.7K

How much do zoo manager jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 28, 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.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,966 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Zookeeper, Asia Quest

Columbus Zoo Family of Parks

Powell, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Overview
Join the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium team and be part of a mission that matters: Empowering People. Saving Wildlife. As a Zookeeper in Asia Quest, you'll play a vital role in caring for incredible species, inspiring guests, and contributing to global conservation efforts. We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for growth, and the chance to make a real impact every day-because here, your work helps protect wildlife and connect people to nature.
Responsibilities
Responsible for the daily care of animals within the assigned team, as well as all other animals in the region, including exhibit and grounds maintenance.
Animal Care & Husbandry
  • Performs care of the region's animals, including food preparation, feeding, monitoring diets, watering, bathing, enrichment, water changes, observing medical and behavioral changes, and behavioral stimulation and may assist with medical treatment as prescribed by Zoo Veterinarians.
  • Maintains daily and monthly records on animals.
  • Participates in training and operant conditioning programs and follows standardized reporting mechanisms.

Exhibit & Grounds Maintenance
  • Cleans and maintains animal exhibit areas, performs basic horticulture work (e.g., caring for region's egress/ingress, general grounds beautification) and disinfects animal enclosures.
  • Utilizes chemical supply products and follows standardized usage guidelines and safety information as set by the Material Data Sheets.
  • Assures the safety of self, animals, co-workers and visitors by observing safety guidelines when working with animals, equipment and vehicles.

Education & Public Engagement
  • Provides educational information about the region's animal population through such activities as interacting with the public, conducting keeper talks, staffing interpreter stations, conducting tours and workshops, attending docent meetings, composing articles for zoo publications and conducting volunteer trainings.

Team Collaboration & Professional Development
  • Provides input to Assistant Curator on all aspects (e.g., safety, animal husbandry) of assigned areas.
  • May provide leadership to seasonal employees, interns, volunteers and zooschool students (e.g., provide daily work direction, inform management of problems).
  • Attends departmental meetings and participates in developmental seminars and workshops as required.
  • May establish and maintain contacts with other zookeepers outside of the Columbus Zoo, field researchers and other specialists.
  • Participates in cross-training activities as directed.
  • Constantly strives to further the mission of the organization and avidly supports the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, Safari Golf Club and The Wilds.
  • Implements sustainable practices in daily tasks whenever possible.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Bachelor's degree in zoology, animal science, biology or relevant field required. Four years of relevant zoo keeping experience may be substituted for degree.
  • Experience in zookeeping (6 months to one year), or approved equivalent required.
  • Minimum six months animal husbandry experience working with primates, reptiles, carnivores, herbivores and birds preferred.
  • Ability to successfully perform zookeeper duties within a diverse animal collection preferred.

Technical & Physical Requirements
  • C.P.R./First Aid certification preferred.
  • Ability to perform strenuous physical work required.
  • Possession of a valid state issued motor vehicle operator's license and a good driving record required, as well as ability to operate standard shift vehicles required.
  • Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter required.
  • Ability to adhere to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's drug-free workplace policy including but not limited to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion and follow-up treatment required.
  • Ability to successfully complete a criminal history background check annually required.

Communication & Guest Service
  • Ability to develop and deliver informational presentations to small, medium or large groups required.
  • Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing required.
  • Ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding the guest service standards required.
  • Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with all Zoo team members and contacts regarding company business required.

Work Style & Availability
  • Ability to plan and organize work in an efficient and cost-effective manner and without direct supervision required.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays required.
  • Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols required.

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