ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zoo Marketing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Santa Barbara Zoo

Major Gifts Officer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$38.50/hr

In collaboration with the Zoo marketing and communications department, develop campaign-related communications and materials * Ensure campaign donors receive high-quality stewardship and recognition ...

Brevard Zoo

Zoo Communications Coordinator

Melbourne, FL

$21.50 - $22.25/hr

Marketing amp; Communications Reports to: Senior Communications Manager POSITION OVERVIEW: Located along the Space Coast in Melbourne, Florida, the Brevard Zoo is an AZA-accredited facility with a ...

Dallas Zoo

Digital Designer

Dallas, TX · Hybrid

This role is responsible for elevating the Dallas Zoo's digital presence through visually compelling, on-brand, and user-focused design across the website, email marketing campaigns, social media ...

Zoo

Senior Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $195K/yr

Own our next phase of design across Zoo's full ecosystem, including product, website, tutorials, documentation, brand, and marketing surfaces * Design intuitive product experiences and workflows for ...

Zoo

Senior Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$109K - $117K/yr

Own our next phase of design across Zoo's full ecosystem, including product, website, tutorials, documentation, brand, and marketing surfaces * Design intuitive product experiences and workflows for ...

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

AssistMansion House administrative staff including the Zoo's president * Assisteducation, group sales, development, events, marketing and communicationdepartments as needed for cross utilization of ...

Maryland Zoo

Area Manager (Penguin Coast)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Answerthe public's questions concerning animals' habits or zoo operations; * Activelycollaborate with the Marketing, Development, Education and Guest Servicesdepartments to design and implement ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Marketing Coordinator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$20.49/hr

The Marketing Coordinator serves as a key support role within the Marketing and Communications team at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium and Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park. Reporting to the ...

Posted today

Dallas Zoo Management

Digital Designer

Dallas, TX · On-site

This role is responsible for elevating the Dallas Zoo's digital presence through visually compelling, on-brand, and user-focused design across the website, email marketing campaigns, social media ...

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD

AssistMansion House administrative staff including the Zoo's president * Assisteducation, group sales, development, events, marketing and communicationdepartments as needed for cross utilization of ...

Houston Zoo

Graphic Designer

Houston, TX · On-site

... marketing and organizational initiatives. This is an on-site position Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife. Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsZoo Marketing Jobs

Zoo Marketing information

See salary details

$22K

$47.5K

$74K

How much do zoo marketing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoo marketing in the United States is $47,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $53,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Zoo Marketing professional typically collaborate with animal care and education teams to create effective campaigns?

Zoo Marketing professionals work closely with animal care and education teams to ensure that marketing campaigns accurately reflect animal welfare standards and educational messaging. They often attend team meetings to gather insights on upcoming exhibits, animal milestones, and conservation initiatives, which are then transformed into engaging content for the public. This collaboration helps ensure that promotional materials are both captivating and informative, fostering community engagement and supporting the zoo's mission. Effective communication and a willingness to learn about animal care are key to success in this role.

What is zoo marketing?

Zoo marketing refers to the strategies and activities used to promote a zoo, attract visitors, and build community engagement. This includes advertising campaigns, social media outreach, special events, partnerships, and educational programs. The goal of zoo marketing is to increase attendance, raise awareness about conservation efforts, and generate revenue to support the zoo's operations and mission. Marketing professionals in this role often work closely with other departments to create compelling messages and experiences that highlight the zoo’s animals, exhibits, and values.

What is the difference between Zoo Marketing vs Zoo Education Coordinator?

AspectZoo MarketingZoo Education Coordinator
Required CredentialsMarketing degree or related experience, marketing certificationsEducation degree, background in environmental or animal education
Work EnvironmentMarketing departments, promotional events, advertising campaignsEducational programs, visitor engagement, school outreach
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by zoo marketing teams to promote the zooUsed by zoos to develop educational content and programs

Zoo Marketing focuses on promoting the zoo through advertising, branding, and outreach efforts, while Zoo Education Coordinators develop and deliver educational programs for visitors and schools. Both roles support the zoo's mission but serve different functions within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Zoo Marketing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Zoo Marketing, you need a solid background in marketing principles, public relations, and preferably a degree in marketing, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with digital marketing platforms, content management systems, and analytics tools such as Google Analytics is typically required. Creativity, strong communication skills, and an ability to engage diverse audiences are vital soft skills in this role. These qualifications and skills are crucial for effectively promoting the zoo, increasing visitor engagement, and supporting conservation and educational goals.
More about Zoo Marketing jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Marketing jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Marketing job openings:
What states have the most Zoo Marketing jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Marketing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Zoo Marketing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoo Marketing jobs are:
Zoo Marketing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Marketing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,471 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Major Gifts Officer

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$38.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Santa Barbara Zoo rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 36 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Are you an experienced development professional who thrives on building lasting donor relationships? The Santa Barbara Zoo is hiring a Major Gifts Officer to lead major gift fundraising efforts that support conservation, education, and the Zoo's strategic priorities.
Position Status: Full-Time, Regular, Non-Exempt, Hourly
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm (some weekends)
Compensation: $38.50 per hour*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*
SUMMARY:Under the general direction of the Director of Advancement, the Major Gifts Officer is responsible for securing major gifts of $10,000+ to support the mission and long-term sustainability of the Santa Barbara Zoo. In addition to building and managing a portfolio of major donors, the Major Gifts Officer will play a key role in the planning, execution, and management of capital campaigns and special funds. This includes developing strategies to secure transformational gifts, coordinating campaign communications, and ensuring campaign goals are met in collaboration with leadership.ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Major Gifts Portfolio Management
  • Manage a portfolio of individual major gift prospects and donors, with emphasis on securing gifts of $10,000+
  • Conduct prospect research, including producing donor profiles to be shared with the Director of Advancement, VP of Community Relations, and Zoo President & CEO as needed
  • Develop and implement customized cultivation and solicitation strategies for each donor
  • Conduct donor visits (in-person, phone, or virtual) to strengthen relationships and deepen engagement
  • Oversee planned giving program
  • Partner with the Director of Advancement, VP of Community Relations, Advancement team, and Zoo President & CEO on solicitations

Capital Campaign Management
  • Collaborate with the Director of Advancement and relevant teams to design, implement, and manage capital campaigns from planning through completion
  • Form and lead campaign committees as needed
  • In collaboration with the Director of Advancement, coordinate with Zoo staff and relevant stakeholders to set timelines, goals, and benchmarks
  • Track campaign progress and ensure accurate reporting to leadership, board, and donors as needed
  • In collaboration with the Zoo marketing and communications department, develop campaign-related communications and materials
  • Ensure campaign donors receive high-quality stewardship and recognition

Planned Giving Management
  • Develop and manage the planned giving program (Phoenix Society) to encourage bequests, trusts, and other legacy gifts
  • In partnership with the Director of Advancement, identify and cultivate prospects for planned giving opportunities
  • Collaborate with the Sponsorship & Special Events Officer to plan and execute annual Phoenix Society stewardship event
  • Provide resources and guidance to donors, staff, and board members regarding planned giving vehicles

Stewardship & Relationship Building
  • Provide thoughtful, timely, and creative stewardship to recognize donor impact and foster long-term engagement, including but not limited to behind-the-scenes animal experiences
  • Translate organizational priorities into compelling cases for support aligned with donor interests
  • Maintain accurate donor records in the Zoo database to support campaign and portfolio management

General Advancement Responsibilities
  • Develops and maintains effective, fruitful, and long-term relationships with donors
  • Assists in maintaining donor databases and filing system
  • Contributes to Z-mail, social media, and other applicable media/publications as appropriate
  • Assists with the creation of fundraising materials and activities (including marketing materials, emails, appeals, signs, website, and events) to ensure the highest standards of the Zoo brand integrity
  • Creates mailing lists and reports as needed
  • Leads some donor cultivation/stewardship tours
  • Monitors and tracks the activities of donor cultivation/stewardship
  • Provides input on policies and procedures related to Advancement
  • Stays current and knowledgeable on AZA, the Santa Barbara Zoo's mission, collection, history, programs, projects, and practices
  • Participates in and contributes to regular Advancement department meetings
  • Supports fundraising efforts for special projects and special programs
  • Contributes to the Advancement Department's annual planning and budgeting process
  • Supports all Advancement cultivation/stewardship activities and events
  • Shares critical information, best practices, and procedures on a consistent basis with staff through meetings that further departmental goals and productivity
  • Edits Advancement and Zoo-wide publications as needed
  • Attends professional fundraising training opportunities as warranted
  • Researches prospective donors and current donors and creates reports as needed
  • Creates some donor recognition gifts and coordinates the distribution of these gifts as needed
  • Responsible for networking within the fundraising community as a Zoo Advancement representative
  • Responsible for networking within the community as a Zoo Advancement representative
  • Works with the advancement team to assist with donor events and other special activities
  • Supports Zoofari Ball as needed
  • Other assignments as needed

SECONDARY DUTIES:
Organization-wide Responsibilities
  • Adheres to Zoo's policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Policy Manual
  • Participates in conservation culture and applies and exemplifies "green" (sustainable) practices whenever possible
  • Supports Zoo-wide events as needed
  • Participates in All Zoo employee meetings
  • Participates in cross-departmental committees/teams as a contributing representative of the Advancement department

Guest Relations Responsibilities
  • Greets every guest with a smile
  • Thanks guests for supporting/visiting the Zoo
  • Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly
  • Ensures 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
  • Responds to all guest inquiries, complaints, and comments according to Zoo guest relations procedures
  • 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, the Employee Pledge, and Core Values

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 essential functions.
Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree preferred
  • Preferred ten years of fundraising experience in zoo, aquarium, science center, or other mission-focused, venue-based organization
  • A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in professional fundraising
  • Experience in donor management

License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
  • Valid CA Driver's License with good driving record and insurance coverage is required
  • Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check
  • TB testing yearly

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Ability to think strategically and plan accordingly to further the Advancement effort
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and guests and to work with all levels of management
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and work with sensitive information
  • Capacity for high-level attention to detail
  • Demonstrates a high degree of accuracy and strong analytical skills
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to effectively multi-task, use independent judgment, and produce quality work within a set timeframe to meet deadlines
  • Ability to effectively work under pressure, multi-task effectively, use independent judgment, and produce quality work within a tight time frame; meeting deadlines
  • Ability to create and implement systems and follow-up processes
  • Must be a proactive and creative problem-solver; a team player with motivation to develop relationships and work collaboratively
  • Understanding of telephone and office etiquette
  • Ability to handle conflict resolution in a professional manner and to respond to sensitive matters or situations with discretion, tact, and confidentiality
  • Ability to relate to persons of diverse backgrounds, skills, and abilities
  • Ability to present self in a personable, professional, and energetic manner
  • Ability to exercise safe work habits
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Knowledge of donor management and database systems and best practice (Zoo currently uses Blackbaud Raiser's Edge)
  • Demonstrates initiative, creativity, and enthusiasm, as well as strong organizational skills
  • Enjoys working with people, especially volunteers

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
  • Most work is performed inside the office environment
  • Occasionally involves working out-of-doors in all weather conditions
  • Requires the ability to access all areas of the facility
  • Must be able to regularly climb and descend from stairs and other inclines, stand/walk for up to eight continuous hours, manipulate computer and office tools, sit and work at a computer for extended periods of time, and use tools
  • Ability to occasionally lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 lbs
  • Ability to multi-task, and managing high pressure situations and meet critical deadlines in a professional manner
  • Must attend all events related to the position
  • Ability to work flexible hours (including some holidays, evenings, and weekends) and travel as needed
  • Supportive and open employment culture

Tools Used:
  • Computer
  • Standard office equipment; telephone, copier, calculator, and others as required
  • Color and laser printer
  • Camera
  • Electric cart
  • Paper cutter
  • Laminator
  • Two-way radio

BENEFITS & PERKS:
  • Great team, beautiful grounds, amazing animal collection, sunshine & ocean view almost year-round!
  • Free parking, free guest passes, unlimited free tea/coffee every morning, 20% discounts on food services and retail purchases
  • Access to the Collabornation learning platform, professional development, and lunch & learn opportunities
  • Comprehensive benefits package for FTR staff, voluntary supplemental insurances, zoo membership, 13 paid holidays, paid sick leave, paid vacation time, 403(b) and SEP retirement plans, a paid conservation day, a paid Zoo Day to visit another AZA-accredited institution, paid time off to take your pet to the vet, and much more...

*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page in order to be considered for the position*Please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
Compensation: $38.50 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.

What Santa Barbara Zoo employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply