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Zoo Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... their supervisor. Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or ... Free Zoo Membership * Free Guest Passes * Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission ...

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 ...

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 ...

Zoo Director

Boise, ID · On-site

$135K - $157K/yr

Parks & Rec Zoo Boise, Boise, ID Job Type: Full Time Regular Job Number: 23 -07708 Department ... Supervises and manages all aspects of the organization. Leads animal care professionals ...

Zoo Director

Boise, ID

$135K - $157K/yr

The Zoo Director will set strategic direction, elevate and empower a high-performing team, and ... Essential Functions Supervises and manages all aspects of the organization. Leads animal care ...

The Zoo Director will set strategic direction, elevate and empower a high-performing team, and ... Perform all essential functions as assigned by an authorized employee, supervisor and/or manager ...

Zoo Keeper (Primates)

New Orleans, LA · 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 ...

Birmingham Zoo Inc. (BZI) is a nonprofit, Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited Zoo and ... Supervises and works alongside landscape staff, coordinating daily work assignments, providing ...

Showing results 21-40

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 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.

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.

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:

What are popular job titles related to Zoo Supervisor jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Zoo Supervisor job openings in the United States as of September 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Education & Tours Supervisor - Full Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego, CA • On-site

$77K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
HOW YOU WILL IPACT OUR MISSION
The Education & Tours Supervisor is responsible for the daily supervision of the education and tours operations. This position reports to the Education and Tours Manager.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Oversees the department's daily operations, including staff, facilities, equipment, and resources.
  • Supervises Educator Guides, Program Aides, and seasonal staff by setting goals, providing constructive feedback, and supporting continued professional growth and development.
  • In collaboration with the department management team, hires, onboards, and provides ongoing training for Educator Guides, Program Aides, and seasonal staff.
  • Reviews and authorizes staff timesheets, assignments, and job responsibilities.
  • Recommends, develops, and ensures adherence to department policies and procedures, undertaking disciplinary actions as needed.
  • Assists in managing the reservations and ticketing system, and inventory for school and tour booking programs.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
The San Diego Zoo Education & Premium Experiences team seeks a motivated, organized, and collaborative leader to support education program and premium experience operations. This position reports to the Education Experience Manager (Operations) and supports a suite of 25+ tours, experiences, and programs. In collaboration with other department leaders, this position provides direct supervision, training, and professional development to a team of 30+ Wildlife Educator Guides. This role provides customer service support and assists with problem solving, program modification, and mitigating day-to-day operational challenges. The ideal candidate has experience supervising and training staff, providing timely feedback, collaborating across departments, and engaging in complex problem-solving. Individuals who are passionate about connecting people with wildlife, finding creative solutions, and developing conservation education professionals are encouraged to apply.
  • JOB EXPERIENCE
    • 1+ years' experience in an education or operations department in a zoo, museum, theme-park or other informal learning center
    • Coursework in science or education or a related field or equivalent specialized training
    • Program and tour development experience
    • Animal handling experience
  • EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
    • Bachelor's Degree
    • Teaching certification preferred

  • SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
    • Knowledge of learning theories and interpretative techniques
    • Ability to effectively lead a team in a diverse environment
    • Able to communicate effectively (verbal and written)
    • Effective customer relations skills
    • Ability to monitor and schedule resources
    • Ability to utilize a variety of computer software programs (e.g, Dayforce, Galaxy, Google suite, Bookeo, etc.)
    • Able to train staff to handle animals and use animal behavior modification
    • Experience with reservations and ticketing system (Galaxy preferred)
    • Knowledge of analytics

SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
  • Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Family Passes
  • Complimentary Tickets
  • Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Local and In-House Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS
  • Location: San Diego, CA
  • Position Type: Salaried Full-Time Exempt Position
  • Salary Range: $77,225 - $90,209

About The Salary Ranges
The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.
Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.
If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.
At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.
As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.