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Zoo Project Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maryland Zoo

Area Manager (Penguin Coast)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary ... Developaction plans for projects and present them to the Collection Managers; * Assistin AZA ...

John Ball Zoo

Senior Zookeeper - Area 2

Grand Rapids, MI

$20.62 - $24.03/hr

... managers, and provide guidance and assistance to teams on projects as directed by animal care ... John Ball Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 1983 which assures ...

Maryland Zoo

Area Manager (Penguin Coast)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Additionally, the Area Manager will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild ... Developaction plans for projects and present them to the Collection Managers; * Assistin AZA ...

OMAHA ZOO GROUP

Senior Building Engineer

Omaha, NE · On-site

$24.79/hr

You will help manage a team of engineers and technicians, work on high-priority mechanical systems, and lead projects that support both the infrastructure and daily operations of the zoo. Your ...

Ideum

Producer / Exhibition Project Manager

Corrales, NM · On-site

... zoos, and other venues. The Producer role involves overseeing these projects, managing teams, and ... ensuring successful execution while maintaining client relationships. Responsibilities : • ...

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Zoo Project Manager information

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$45K

$105K

$169.5K

How much do zoo project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoo project manager in the United States is $105,026.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $128,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Zoo Project Manager typically collaborate with animal care staff and external contractors during major facility upgrades?

A Zoo Project Manager works closely with animal care staff to ensure that any upgrades or construction projects prioritize animal welfare and minimize disruptions to daily routines. They facilitate communication between zookeepers, veterinarians, and external contractors by organizing regular meetings and walkthroughs, addressing concerns about safety and operational needs. Effective collaboration ensures timelines are met while adhering to regulatory standards and maintaining a safe environment for both animals and staff.

What does a Zoo Project Manager do?

A Zoo Project Manager is responsible for overseeing and coordinating various projects within a zoo, such as new exhibit construction, habitat renovations, or conservation initiatives. They manage project timelines, budgets, and teams, ensuring that all work complies with safety standards and animal welfare regulations. Zoo Project Managers also collaborate with architects, animal care staff, vendors, and regulatory agencies to ensure projects meet the specific needs of the animals and the zoo's mission. Their role is crucial in enhancing the zoo's facilities, visitor experience, and conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Zoo Project Manager vs Zoo Curator?

AspectZoo Project ManagerZoo Curator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in zoology, project management certification often preferredBachelor's or master's degree in zoology, biology, or related field; specialized experience in animal care
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, manages teams, coordinates with vendors and stakeholdersManages animal collections, develops exhibits, conducts research and educational programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in zoo administration, construction, and exhibit developmentCommonly found in zoo animal care, exhibit design, and conservation programs

The Zoo Project Manager focuses on planning, executing, and overseeing zoo projects, including construction and exhibit development. In contrast, the Zoo Curator primarily manages animal collections, develops exhibits, and conducts research. Both roles require relevant zoological credentials but differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Zoo Project Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoo Project Manager, you need a background in project management, animal science, or zoology, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in wildlife or conservation projects. Familiarity with project management software, budgeting tools, and compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills set standout candidates apart, enabling effective coordination among diverse teams and stakeholders. These skills are crucial for successfully delivering complex projects that support animal welfare, conservation goals, and public engagement in a zoo environment.
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Zoo Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Project Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $105,026 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Manager of Major and Planned Gifts - Full Time

Manager of Major and Planned Gifts - Full Time

Saint Louis Zoo

Saint Louis, MO

$25K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Saint Louis Zoo rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Reports to: Director of Major and Planned Gifts

Position Summary:

The Manager of Major and Planned Gifts helps implement and manage a comprehensive planned giving program that advances the Saint Louis Zoo’s philanthropic priorities. This position builds and stewards relationships with donors, prospects, professional advisors, and volunteers to secure significant outright, deferred, and blended gifts in support of the Zoo’s mission, conservation efforts, endowment growth, capital projects, and strategic initiatives.

Reporting to the Director of Major and Planned Gifts, the Manager of Major and Planned Giving manages a portfolio of major and planned gift prospects helping donors accomplish their philanthropic goals by providing them with gift opportunities that align with the Zoo’s funding priorities.

Essential Responsibilities:

Planned Giving Program Support

  • Help manage the Saint Louis Zoo’s planned giving program, including marketing and management of bequests, charitable gift annuities, beneficiary designations, and other non-cash and deferred gift vehicles
  • Implement strategies to identify, qualify, cultivate, and solicit planned gift prospects and promote legacy giving opportunities to support the Zoo
  • Manage and promote the Zoo’s Heritage Society program; identify, qualify, and welcome new members; and steward pool of unassigned members
  • Ensure planned gift documentation, tracking and stewardship are maintained according to organizational policies and legal requirements
  • Create effective communications and collateral to make the case for endowment and to recognize and steward donors
  • Assist with the estate settlement process
  • Support the Zoo’s Planned Giving Advisory Committee
  • Manage planned giving events

Endowment Building

  • Implement fundraising strategies for endowment growth and long-term sustainability
  • Manage recognition and stewardship of endowed fund donors
  • Manage acknowledgement of endowment gifts including tributes

 

Major Gift Fundraising

  • Manage a portfolio of 125 – 150 major and planned gift prospects and donors
  • Develop and implement individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies to secure major and planned gifts ($25,000+)
  • Meet or exceed annual fundraising goals and activity metrics

Inter- and Cross- Department Collaboration

  • Collaborate with and oversee functions done by administrative and gift processing staff as appropriate
  • Work with Data Analyst/Prospect Researcher to identify and qualify major and planned giving prospects
  • Coordinate with stewardship and Creative Services staff to develop and deliver digital and print communications
  • Coordinate with Events team to plan and implement Heritage Society Breakfast and other planned giving events
  • Other responsibilities as deemed appropriate

Qualifications:

Required: 

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 5+ years of experience in major and planned gift fundraising with a proven track record of success
  • Excellent verbal and written communication and relationship-building skills
  • Strong project management/organizational skills with attention to detail
  • Professional maturity, credibility, honesty, and integrity
  • Computer literate; experience working with Microsoft Office, Raiser’s Edge NXT, and Crescendo or other planned giving marketing platforms or software preferred

Key Competencies:

  • Relationship building
  • Strategic thinking
  • Donor-centered
  • Financial and philanthropic acumen
  • Collaborative
  • Results oriented
  • Organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities

All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check

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