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Zoo Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Zoo information

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$28

How much do zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo in California is $14.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.89 and $16.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoo worker?

Zoo workers are professionals who care for animals in zoos and ensure their well-being. Their duties can include feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, monitoring animal health, and providing enrichment activities. Some zoo workers, like zookeepers, may specialize in certain species, while others assist with education programs or maintenance. They also help educate the public about wildlife conservation and animal behavior. Working at a zoo requires a passion for animals, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.

What are the qualifications to work in a zoo?

The qualifications to work in a zoo vary greatly. As a zoologist, you need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or a closely related degree. Some zookeepers have zoology degrees as well, but that is not always a strict requirement for becoming a zookeeper. To work on the administrative side, you need a strong grasp of business administration, animal science, and community planning and engagement. Tour guides may be volunteers that lead tours or full-time employees with a high school diploma or GED certificate. Strong research skills and good interpersonal communication skills are essential.

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

To thrive as a Zookeeper, you need a background in animal science or biology, experience with animal care, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with animal husbandry tools, record-keeping software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication help zookeepers manage animals and interact with the public and colleagues. These skills ensure the health and welfare of animals while promoting education and safety within the zoo environment.

What are some of the common challenges faced by zookeepers in their daily work?

Zookeepers often encounter challenges such as ensuring animal welfare while managing a variety of species with different needs, maintaining strict safety protocols, and handling physically demanding tasks in all weather conditions. They also need to adapt to rapidly changing situations, such as animal health emergencies or behavioral issues, and frequently collaborate closely with veterinarians, educators, and maintenance staff. Building trust with the animals and staying updated on best practices in animal care are ongoing aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Zoo vs Zookeeper?

AspectZooZookeeper
CredentialsTypically none required, but education in biology or animal science helpsOften requires a degree in biology, zoology, or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, educational, and conservation-focused settingsHands-on animal care in zoo habitats
Employer & IndustryZoos, wildlife parks, conservation organizationsZoos, aquariums, wildlife reserves

While 'Zoo' refers to the facility or organization, a 'Zookeeper' is the professional responsible for animal care within a zoo. Zookeepers work directly with animals, ensuring their health and well-being, whereas 'Zoo' describes the environment or institution where these activities occur.

What are different jobs at a zoo?

Zoo jobs include zookeepers, who care for animals and maintain enclosures; educators, who provide public programs and interpretive services; veterinarians, who diagnose and treat animal health; and administrative staff, who handle management and operations. Other roles include security personnel, maintenance workers, and research scientists, often requiring specific skills, certifications, or training related to animal care and facility management.
More about Zoo jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs in California?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Zoo jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Zoo jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Zoo jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Zoo jobs?

Cities in California with the most Zoo job openings:

Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,593 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Educator - Zoo Camp (Seasonal)

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$18.40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Santa Barbara Zoo rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 37 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

Are you passionate about connecting people of all ages to the wonders of wildlife and conservation? The Santa Barbara Zoo is seeking enthusiastic Educators to bring our mission to life through engaging Zoo Camp experiences. Join our team to inspire curiosity and foster a love for nature in a hands-on, fun, and creative environment!
Note: This position is fully outdoors and requires extensive walking through Zoo grounds (hills and inclines) in all weather conditions
Position Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Requirements: Applicant must be minimum 18 years of age. At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.Compensation: $18.40/hour
Schedule: Seasonal position, Up to 16-40 hours/work week during school breaks, vary during school year.
Spring Camp: March 30 - April 3
Summer Camp: June 15 - August 14 (Must commit to min 7 of the 10 weeks of Summer Camp)
Fall Camp: Nov 23-25 & 27
Winter Camp: Dec 21 - Dec 31 (No camp on Christmas Day 12/25 or New Year's Day 1/1)
JOB DESCRIPTION
SUMMARY:
Under general direction of the Education Manager and Education Team, Zoo Camp Educator promotes the Zoo and its mission through implementing Zoo Camps.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES include the following:
Zoo Camp:
  • Supervises groups of up to 15 children while delivering camp curriculum in an engaging, age-appropriate manner, working with a particular age group within the 3-13 age range.
  • Leads environmental and animal science activities, such as hands-on learning activities, games, crafts, stories, and songs.
  • Supervises and ensures the safety and well-being of assigned group.

SECONDARY DUTIES:
  • Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations.
  • Greets every guest with a smile.
  • Thanks guests for supporting and visiting the Zoo.
  • Answers phone calls, voice mails, and e-mails promptly.
  • Ensure the Zoo's presentation standards for cleanliness and maintenance are met by keeping work areas clean, picking up trash, and reporting unsafe or unsightly conditions.
  • Associates with guests to assist and share information.
  • Maintains a clean neat appearance and adheres to the Zoo's uniform dress code.
  • Takes responsibility to stay informed about happenings at the Zoo, such as reading employee communications and attending meetings.
  • Reflects the qualities outlined in the Guest Relations Statement and the Employee Pledge.

POSITION CRITERIA:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and environmental characteristics described below are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, and working and physical elements required of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of college coursework in life sciences, zoology, education or environmental sciences or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Minimum of 6 months experience in informal presentations.

License, Certification, or Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prefer experience in an environmental education setting
  • Successful completion of a Department of Justice background check.
  • First Aid and CPR certification required
  • TB tests and Tetanus vaccinations as necessary
  • Authorized to work in the United States
    • At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Basic knowledge of biology and zoology preferred.
  • Ability to organize, plan, collaborate and implement educational presentations.
  • Skilled in improvisation.
  • Energetic and engaging personality.
  • Ability to present educational programs to diverse audiences and large groups of people.
  • Ability to envision and implement innovative solutions and ideas.
  • Ability to contribute to the creative process.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of computer software including word processing and database programs.
  • Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, and our guests.
  • Ability to exercise safe work habits.
  • Awareness of, sensitivity to, and empathy with animals.

Physical Demands; Work Environment:
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally and 10 or fewer pounds frequently.
  • Ability to exert a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
  • Ability to run, kneel, sit on the ground/floor, squat, and stand for long periods.
  • Ability to negotiate the zoo work environment including behind-the-scenes, lawns, gravel, hilltop, and attic storage.
  • Involves walking out-of-doors in all weather conditions.
  • Supportive and open employment culture.
  • Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including, electric carts, telephones, printers, two-way radios, projectors, and copiers.
  • Ability to work outdoors most of the day.

Tools Used:
  • Two-way radios
  • Electric cart
  • Personal computer and software (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
  • Printer
  • Telephone system
  • Bio Facts and various learning-based materials
  • Wagons

*You must also complete the Zoo's Official Employment Application on the next page to be considered for the position*
- -
The Zoo reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description does not constitute an employment contract and does not guarantee employment for any specified period. The job description does not in any way alter the at-will employment relationship.
At this time, the Zoo does not sponsor employment or internship visas.
Compensation: $18.40 per hour
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Do you love animals and working with people? Join the fun, caring, friendly, and energetic team at the Santa Barbara Zoo in our mission of preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural world and its living treasures through education, research, and recreation.
Once you apply, please make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see an email response from the Zoo.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and is a fully accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Known as one of the world's most beautiful zoos, it is located on 30 acres of lush botanic gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is home to more than 146 animal species living in open, naturalistic habitats. Our wonderful collaborative team includes up to 220 employees and 50 volunteers.

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