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Zoo Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

mkecounty

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer Hourly Range: $15.91 - $23.87 Closing Date: 09/10/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications Job Summary: Under the direction of Zoo Security leadership, the Zoo ...

mkecounty

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer Hourly Range: $15.91 - $23.87 Closing Date: 09/10/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications Job Summary: Under the direction of Zoo Security leadership, the Zoo ...

Saint Louis Zoo

Public Safety Beat

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17/hr

Part of the Zoo's Security Department. Work fixed posts, patrol grounds on foot, and respond to radio calls for assistance, monitor visitor traffic and crowd control, work special events after hours.

Saint Louis Zoo

Public Safety Beat

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17/hr

Part of the Zoo's Security Department. Work fixed posts, patrol grounds on foot, and respond to radio calls for assistance, monitor visitor traffic and crowd control, work special events after hours.

Nashville Zoo

Security Guard

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Position Description Position Title: Security Guard Department: Safety & Security Supervisor: Safety & Security Manager, Environmental Health & Safety Director Position ...

Nashville Zoo

Security Guard

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Position Description Position Title: Security Guard Department: Safety & Security Supervisor: Safety & Security Manager, Environmental Health & Safety Director Position ...

Nashville Zoo

Security Guard

Nashville, TN

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Position Description Position Title: Security Guard Department: Safety & Security Supervisor: Safety & Security Manager, Environmental Health & Safety Director Position ...

Maryland Zoo

Security Officer (Part-Time)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$17/hr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status GeneralSummary : The Security Officer is asignificant position responsible for representing the organization and providinga ...

Maryland Zoo

Security Officer (Part-Time)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$17/hr

Additionally, the Security Officer will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustainability, conservation ...

City of Idaho Falls, ID

Zoo Keeper

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

Ensures all safety and security protocols are followed. Under the supervision of the veterinarian ... Monitors zoo facilities to ensure the safety of zoo patrons and employees. Assists with a variety ...

Zoo Atlanta

Security Patrol - 2nd Shift

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.70 - $21.49/hr

Patrol Zoo Atlanta in accordance with security procedures. * Check for unsafe conditions, hazards, unlocked doors, and security violations. * Report safety concerns, security breaches, fire hazards ...

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Zoo Security information

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How much do zoo security jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo security in the United States is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo security officer?

Zoo security officers are professionals responsible for maintaining the safety and security of zoo visitors, staff, animals, and property. Their duties include monitoring surveillance systems, patrolling zoo grounds, responding to emergencies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. They also help manage crowd control during busy periods and work closely with zoo staff to handle incidents involving both people and animals. The role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Security Officer, you need a solid understanding of security protocols, observational skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes supplemented by security guard certification. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technology, and emergency communication tools is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, alertness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help in effectively managing both public and animal-related incidents. These skills are crucial to ensure the safety of guests, staff, and animals while maintaining a secure and welcoming environment.

What are the most common challenges faced by zoo security personnel during daily operations?

Zoo security personnel often encounter challenges such as ensuring visitor and animal safety, responding to medical or security incidents, and handling lost children or property. They must remain vigilant against unauthorized access to restricted areas while balancing a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Adapting to changing weather conditions, large crowds, and the unpredictability of animal behavior also requires strong situational awareness and effective communication with both the security team and zookeepers.

What is the difference between Zoo Security vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectZoo SecurityAnimal Care Technician
Required CertificationsSecurity training, first aid, CPRAnimal handling, CPR, first aid
Work EnvironmentZoo premises, security postsAnimal enclosures, veterinary clinics
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, wildlife parksZoos, aquariums, wildlife centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Zoo Security focuses on maintaining safety and security within the zoo environment, primarily through surveillance and access control. Animal Care Technicians are responsible for the daily care, feeding, and health monitoring of animals. While both roles work in zoo settings and require some overlapping certifications like CPR, Zoo Security emphasizes safety protocols, whereas Animal Care Technicians focus on animal welfare and handling.

Do zoos have security guards?

Zoo security personnel, often called security guards or officers, are employed to monitor the premises, protect visitors, staff, and animals, and prevent theft or vandalism. They typically patrol the zoo, monitor surveillance systems, and respond to emergencies, often requiring training in safety procedures and sometimes security certifications.

What cities are hiring for Zoo Security jobs?

Cities with the most Zoo Security job openings:

What states have the most Zoo Security jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Security jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Zoo Security job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,591 per year, or $19 per hour.

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

mkecounty
See more jobs at mkecountyexternal

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Hourly Range: $15.91 – $23.87

Closing Date: 09/10/2026 or upon receipt of the first 50 applications

Job Summary: Under the direction of Zoo Security leadership, the Zoo Worker – Security ensures a safe and secure environment for employees, guests, vendors, contractors, and animals. Key duties include protecting Zoo property, providing basic first aid when EMS is unavailable, assisting guests, enforcing Zoo policies, and managing traffic flow. Additional responsibilities include completing required reports, conducting patrols and fence checks, assisting with lost persons, inspecting emergency equipment, enforcing admission policies, and responding to thefts, disturbances, and other incidents as assigned.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Resolving guest inquiries, comments, complaints: Maintain the security of Zoo grounds by resolving minor issues and assisting law enforcement and medical personnel, while providing guests with excellent customer service grounded in respect, honesty, and integrity.
  • Maintain current knowledge of Zoo information, policies, and events: Stay informed about current and upcoming Zoo events to provide guests with accurate and helpful information. When not personally familiar with a guest’s question, know where to access the appropriate information or resources.
  • Uphold, enforce and comply with all Zoo policies, procedures, and work rules: Educate guests on Milwaukee County Zoo policies regarding smoking, service animals, carryins, alcohol, admission, parking, and prohibited items or behaviors. Ensure guest compliance with all applicable policies, procedures, and work rules. Demonstrate leadership by maintaining your own compliance with established Zoo policies, procedures, and work rules at all times.
  • Provide traffic control and documentation for vehicles and pedestrians entering and exiting the Zoo: Document and monitor incoming traffic before and after Zoo operating hours. Assist Visitor Services with traffic direction during open hours as needed. Support vendors and contractors in accessing the appropriate locations within the Zoo. Assist emergency service and public safety personnel with safe and efficient entry to and exit from the Zoo.
  • Complete and submit required reports, while maintaining proper organization and cleanliness of any assigned workstation: Complete Daily Activity Reports (DAR), Guest Injury Report, and any additional documentation required by the Security Supervisor or Zoo Manager.
  • Complete basic patrol duties and perimeter fence checks as required by the Security Supervisor, to include proper communication with Zoo management: Open/ Lock and secure Zoo gates—as directed or required by policy. Communicate pertinent information clearly and promptly, both verbally and in writing, including maintaining proper communication with the Zoo switchboard.
  • Reuniting lost children and adults: Assist in locating children and adults who become separated, ensuring their safety through proper identification of both the individual and their accompanying party. This includes providing support for individuals with cognitive disabilities or physical needs.
  • Respond to theft or disturbance incidents, assess the situation, and request appropriate resources when a sheriff’s deputy is not on site: Assess situations and request the appropriate law enforcement services when an onduty Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Deputy is not present on Zoo grounds. When a deputy is on site, aid as requested.
  • Enforce the Milwaukee County Zoo Admission Policy: Check Zooissued ID badges for employees, vendors, contractors, Zoological Society staff, members, volunteers, and Zoo class/camp participants. May also create ID badges, monitor security cameras, and operate electronic access control systems.

Minimum Requirements: 

  • Authorized to work in the United States
  • Valid Driver’s License required and must be maintained throughout employment
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent required with at least Two (2) years of experience in Law Enforcement, Corrections, or Private Security
  • Basic Knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as word processing and spreadsheets.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Actively pursuing or completion of degree in Criminal Justice

NOTE:  This original application is open to permanent residents of the United States. Appointee must establish residency in the state of Wisconsin within six months of start date and maintain such residency during incumbency. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources.

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION

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