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Zoo Ranger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Houston Zoo

Ranger

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

The Zoo Ranger is a vital member of the zoo's Health, Safety, and Security team, responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and security of all guests, staff, and animal residents. Through ...

houstonzoo

Ranger

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

The Zoo Ranger is a vital member of the zoo's Health, Safety, and Security team, responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and security of all guests, staff, and animal residents. Through ...

houstonzoo

Ranger

Houston, TX

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

The Zoo Ranger is a vital member of the zoo's Health, Safety, and Security team, responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and security of all guests, staff, and animal residents. Through ...

Saint Louis Zoo

Ranger

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Responsible for the protection, safeguarding and security of Zoo property, respond to all emergencies, enforce Zoo rules and regulations, protect property from theft, embezzlement, fire and accidents ...

Saint Louis Zoo

Ranger

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Responsible for the protection, safeguarding and security of Zoo property, respond to all emergencies, enforce Zoo rules and regulations, protect property from theft, embezzlement, fire and accidents ...

Oglebay

Oglebay Park Ranger

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$11 - $13/hr

Responds to all calls received on a priority basis makes routine patrols of zoo during closed hours. Responds to reports of incidents, theft, personal injury, and accidents and records and reports ...

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All JobsZoo Ranger Jobs

Zoo Ranger information

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$12

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$39

How much do zoo ranger jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo ranger in the United States is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo ranger?

Zoo Rangers are professionals who work within zoos to care for animals, educate visitors, and help with conservation efforts. Their duties often include monitoring animal health, maintaining habitats, guiding tours, and assisting with breeding programs. Zoo Rangers play a vital role in ensuring both animal welfare and public education about wildlife and conservation. They often work closely with veterinarians, researchers, and the general public. To become a Zoo Ranger, a background in animal science, biology, or environmental education is typically required.

How does a zoo ranger typically collaborate with veterinarians and animal care teams?

Zoo Rangers work closely with veterinarians and animal care teams to monitor animal health and behavior, assist in daily feeding routines, and carry out enrichment activities. They often serve as the eyes and ears on the ground, reporting any concerns or unusual animal behaviors to the veterinary staff for timely intervention. Regular meetings and briefings ensure all team members are aligned on animal welfare protocols, and Rangers may also help implement medical or quarantine procedures under supervision, fostering a highly collaborative environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoo ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoo Ranger, you generally need a background in animal science, biology, or zoology, often supported by relevant certifications or degrees. Familiarity with animal husbandry tools, wildlife tracking systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, observational skills, and a passion for conservation help Zoo Rangers educate the public and ensure animal welfare. These skills are vital for maintaining animal health, fostering public engagement, and supporting conservation efforts within the zoo environment.

What is the difference between Zoo Ranger vs Zoo Keeper?

AspectZoo RangerZoo Keeper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require certifications in animal care or safetyHigh school diploma; certifications in animal husbandry or veterinary assistance often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, active settings within zoo grounds, often involving conservation activitiesIndoor and outdoor animal care areas, focusing on feeding, cleaning, and habitat maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageWildlife conservation organizations, zoos, and parksPrimarily zoos and aquariums

Zoo Rangers and Zoo Keepers both work in zoo environments, but Zoo Rangers typically focus on conservation, patrolling, and outdoor activities, while Zoo Keepers primarily handle animal care and habitat maintenance. Both roles require similar certifications and are essential to zoo operations, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What cities are hiring for Zoo Ranger jobs?

Cities with the most Zoo Ranger job openings:

What states have the most Zoo Ranger jobs?

States with the most job openings for Zoo Ranger jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Ranger jobs?

For Zoo Ranger jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Zoo Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Ranger job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,977 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Ranger

Houston, TX • On-site

Houston Zoo
Museums and Historical Sites • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Houston Zooexternal

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago

Houston Zoo rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Zoo Ranger is a vital member of the zoo's Health, Safety, and Security team, responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and security of all guests, staff, and animal residents. Through proactive patrols, engaging guest interactions, and effective emergency response, the Zoo Ranger provides exceptional service to create a safe and enjoyable experience while supporting the zoo's mission of wildlife conservation and education.
Our Mission: Houston Zoo connects communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.
Our Vision: Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Patrols zoo grounds regularly to monitor guests, staff, and animal safety, identifying and addressing potential hazards.
  • Responds promptly and professionally to emergencies, including first aid, lost children, safety concerns, and other incidents.
  • Monitors surveillance equipment, access points, and restricted areas to ensure compliance with safety and security protocols.
  • Documents and reports incidents, safety concerns, and unusual activities accurately and thoroughly.
  • Opens and secures zoo facilities, ensuring all areas are safe and operational before and after guest hours.
  • Valid Driver's License with acceptable motor vehicle record to maintain Houston Zoo's standards of insurability required.
  • Able to complete and maintain active status for a Defensive Driving course to operate company vehicles.
  • Assists with logistical tasks during special events, including setup, security, and guest flow management.
  • Provides support for animal keeper activities by securing paths, assisting with animal transfers, and ensuring guest safety during animal demonstrations.
  • Helps manage lost and found processes and ensure timely reunification of lost children with guardians.
  • Provides exceptional customer service, answering questions, offering directions, and sharing information about zoo exhibits, programs, and conservation efforts.
  • Engages guests with educational stories and experiences that connect them to the zoo's mission of protecting wildlife and their habitats.
  • Assists with crowd management and ensure a positive visitor experience during peak times and special events.
  • Stays up to date with zoo policies, emergency response protocols, and departmental guidelines.
  • Participates in regular training sessions to maintain certifications (e.g., first aid, CPR) and develop skills necessary for effective performance.
  • Mentors new Rangers, providing guidance on protocols, best practices, and guest service standards.
  • Promotes the zoo's conservation initiatives by inspiring guests to take action to protect wildlife and reduce environmental impact.
  • Contributes to saving animals in the wild through: reduction of waste, water and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife protection actions.
  • Contributes to other operational priorities as needed.

Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
  • Minimum of one (1) year of progressively responsible work experience.
  • Complete and maintain First Aid, AED and CPR Certifications.
  • Must be eligible to complete and receive a certification as a Non-Commissioned Security Officer through the Texas Department of Public Safety, Private Security Bureau. (No current or prior Class A or B misdemeanors or felony convictions).
  • Strong observational and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to handle high-pressure situations with professionalism and composure.
  • Familiarity with first aid procedures and emergency response.

ABOUT HOUSTON ZOO
The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.
Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Disclaimer
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.
Benefits
Full-time, regular positions are offered the following benefits.
  • Medical and Prescription Drug
  • Vision
  • Dental
  • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)
  • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)
  • Supplemental Life
  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account
  • 401k, with employer match

Full-time and Part-Time, regular positions are offered the following additional benefits.
  • Free Zoo Membership
  • Free Guest Passes
  • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs
  • Free parking

Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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