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Zoo Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an exceptional Animal Care Supervisor. This position is the primary support to the Director of Animal Care & Conservation. This position requires a strong attention ...

Houston Zoo will be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife. Job Duties and ... their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or ...

Zoo Keeper (Primates)

New Orleans, LA ยท On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Zookeepers perform routine zookeeper duties; work under minimal supervision in a wide range of functions; may supervisor volunteer staff; initiate and participate in training and behavioral ...

Volunteer Supervisor

Santa Barbara, CA ยท On-site

$27.98 - $29.33/hr

The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking a Volunteer Supervisor to recruit, manage, and inspire a dedicated team of volunteers who help bring our mission to life. Join us in fostering meaningful connections ...

Volunteer Supervisor

Santa Barbara, CA ยท On-site

$27.98 - $29.33/hr

The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking a Volunteer Supervisor to recruit, manage, and inspire a dedicated team of volunteers who help bring our mission to life. Join us in fostering meaningful connections ...

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

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 ...

Zoo Seasonal Security Officer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$15.91 - $23.87/hr

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 ...

Zoo Assistant Director

El Paso, TX ยท On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Zoo Management, Veterinary Medicine, Business or Public ... Appraise employee performance and review evaluations by subordinate supervisors. Provide for ...

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Zoo Supervisor information

What are the main responsibilities of a Zoo Supervisor?

A Zoo Supervisor oversees the daily operations of animal exhibits and staff within a section or department of a zoo. They are responsible for supervising animal care, ensuring enclosures are safe and clean, coordinating staff schedules, and implementing animal enrichment programs. Zoo Supervisors also help with training staff, maintaining records, and sometimes assisting with guest education or emergency situations. Their role is crucial in maintaining animal welfare standards and ensuring a safe environment for both animals and visitors.

How does a Zoo Supervisor typically collaborate with animal care staff and other departments to ensure effective zoo operations?

A Zoo Supervisor works closely with animal caretakers, veterinarians, education teams, and maintenance staff to coordinate daily animal care routines, ensure safety protocols are followed, and address facility needs. Regular meetings and clear communication are essential for managing schedules, responding to animal health concerns, and planning exhibits or events. By fostering teamwork across departments, a Zoo Supervisor helps maintain high standards of animal welfare and guest experience while supporting the professional development of their team.

What is the difference between Zoo Supervisor vs Zoo Keeper?

AspectZoo SupervisorZoo Keeper
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires animal care certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees staff and operations in zoo settings; administrative and supervisory dutiesHands-on animal care in enclosures; direct interaction with animals
Employer & Industry UsageZoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizationsZoos, aquariums, wildlife sanctuaries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding supervisory roles in zoosAnimal care and daily zoo work

The main difference between a Zoo Supervisor and a Zoo Keeper lies in their responsibilities. Zoo Supervisors oversee staff, manage operations, and ensure safety protocols, while Zoo Keepers focus on direct animal care, feeding, and habitat maintenance. Both roles are essential in zoo environments, but they differ in scope and daily tasks.

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

To thrive as a Zoo Supervisor, you need a background in animal science or zoology, experience in animal care, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with animal management software, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help manage staff and ensure animal welfare. These skills are crucial for maintaining high standards of animal care, regulatory compliance, and effective team performance in a zoo environment.
More about Zoo Supervisor jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoo Supervisor jobs? Cities with the most Zoo Supervisor job openings:
What states have the most Zoo Supervisor jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoo Supervisor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Zoo Supervisor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Animal Care Supervisor

Animal Care Supervisor

Chattanooga Zoo

Chattanooga, TN โ€ข On-site

$24.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Chattanooga Zoo is looking for an exceptional Animal Care Supervisor. This position is the primary support to the Director of Animal Care & Conservation. This position requires a strong attention to detail, ability to respond quickly and calmly in crises, and maintain high standards of animal care. This person should have strong interpersonal skills, leadership skills, as well as animal husbandry skills. This position serves as an Animal Manager on Duty as well, both during and outside normal operating hours. The Zoo staff is a team and employees are expected to assist wherever needed in the zoo operation when needed.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Provide onsite supervision during and after normal operating hours including emergency management, husbandry or safety issues that may arise, and guest relations when needed.
  • Serve as the animal care department point of contact for time sensitive or emergency situations.
  • Work as a member of the management team for the Animal Care Department.
  • Coordinate emergency response as a member of the ERT.
  • Serve as a primary or secondary key holder for 2 lock 2 key species when needed.
  • Lead department and zoo-wide emergency drills and preparations as assigned by the General Curator.
  • Make last-minute adjustments to the departmental schedule as needed to ensure all animal areas have minimum coverage.
  • Monitor weather conditions and update animal care staff regularly throughout the day when severe weather is expected.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Associate's degree in biology, Zoology, Environmental Education or related field.
  • Minimum ten (10) year's paid zoo animal care experience with relevant taxa and/or programs.
  • Any combination of equivalent education and experience to successfully perform the essential functions of the position will be considered.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Light: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently and/or a negligible amount of force to constantly move objects. This position requires sitting or standing for long periods of time but also may require movement across Zoo grounds.
Physical Environment: This position is required to perform work on zoo grounds, often exposed to external elements which include heat/cold, wet/humid, dry/arid and extreme weather conditions. Some sedentary work is also required in an office setting.
The Friends of the Zoo, Inc (Chattanooga Zoo) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Zoo will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
We are committed to a welcoming environment where employees are encouraged to be their authentic selves. We value the unique qualities, perspectives, and experiences of all individuals.