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Zoo Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

MRI Technologist - Travel Job

Wichita, KS · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the larger zoos in the region, and Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport is located about 10 miles from downtown for convenient regional and national travel. EEO ...

Physical Therapist - Travel Contract

Wichita, KS · On-site

$1.6K - $2.1K/wk

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Botanica Wichita features themed gardens near the Mid-America All-Indian Museum, and Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Kansas. Cheney State Park is about 30 miles west for boating and ...

Showing results 21-40

Zoo information

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 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 jobs are there in a zoo?

Zoo jobs include animal keepers, zookeepers, curators, educators, veterinarians, and maintenance staff. These roles require knowledge of animal care, safety procedures, and often specific certifications or training. Staff work in various environments such as animal enclosures, educational programs, and administrative offices.

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 type of jobs are at a zoo?

Zoo jobs include animal care positions such as zookeepers and veterinarians, as well as roles in education, visitor services, maintenance, security, and administration. These jobs often require specific skills, certifications, or training related to animal handling, safety, and public engagement.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Zoo jobs in Kansas?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Kansas are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Zoo jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Zoo job openings:

Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 73% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Seasonal Educator II - Little Apple Day Camp

City of Manhattan Kansas

Manhattan, KS

$16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

(Seasonal, Non-Exempt)

Starting Wage: $16.00/hour

Closing Date: Open until filled; posting may close at any time 

Shift/Workdays and Hours: Variable


Must be 18 years or older


How to Apply: Using the "apply" button on this page, please complete the required online application. For general questions about the position, contact Parks and Recreation at 785-587-2757.


Job Summary

The City of Manhattan is accepting applications for an Educator II/Group Leader for Little Apple Day Camp/Sunset Zoo/Flint Hills Discovery Center. The Educator II/Group Leader will be responsible for working directly with youth campers, 5 - 11 years of age, or youth and adult program participants in a variety of arts, culture, and recreation programming. Educators will reflect the mission of the Parks & Recreation Department and uphold each specific division's mission of continuing education in their respective fields. The selected candidate(s) must be able to attend all in-service training sessions.


Job Duties

  • Programs all-day activities, including, but not limited to life sports, arts and crafts, games, music, STEAM, culture, environmental science, and outdoor recreational programs.
  • Provides supervision and direction to the youth and/or adults assigned to the group.
  • Assists Camp Directors, Curator of Education, and/or Education Supervisors in the development of programs that are safe, inclusive, age-appropriate, and fun. 
  • Carries out the program activities.
  • Accompanies youth campers or program participants on field trips and visits to public recreational facilities.
  • Safely operates motor vehicles to pick up and transport program participants to and from programs, field trips and other daily activities. 
  • Maintain independence and flexibility in program delivery to account for changing conditions and participant needs. 
  • Fosters positive, healthy relationships with children and adults from diverse backgrounds, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
  • Maintains open communication with program participants and parents of youth enrolled in education programs. 
  • FHDC and Sunset Zoo require handling of animals and animal husbandry.
  • Performs minor first aid for injuries that may occur during education programs. 
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills & Additional Qualifications

  • High School diploma, GED or equivalent.
  • Experience working with school-age children or school-age youth.
  • Selected candidate(s) may be required to pass a KDHE and/or KBI background check.
  • Selected candidate(s) may be required to pass a TB test. 
  • Must be 18 years or older.

Preferred Knowledge & Skills

  • Bachelor's Degree in early childhood, elementary education, recreation, related field, or experience that is necessary to achieve certification as a childcare facility director.
  • One (1) year of college education, or Fifteen (15) hours of college credit in an animal/wildlife, environmental/conservation, natural resources, education, psychology, or sociology related courses. - Some training may be provided. 
  • Experience with special needs campers.
  • CPR/First Aid Certification (Can be provided through Parks & Recreation).

Other Information

  • This is not a KPERS covered position.
  • Applicants must pass drug test.
  • The Seasonal Educator position can be an ongoing position with available hours year-round, including occasional nights and weekends. For a breakdown of work schedules by location see below:
  • Sunset Zoo - Summer Adventure Camp work includes full-time, daytime hours (7:30 am - 5:30 pm) Monday through Friday for 6 weeks, and must be available and able to work a minimum of 2 weekday afternoons from 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Little Apple Day Camp - Runs May-August, (7:30AM - 5:30PM) Monday through Friday, for 11 weeks. 
  • Flint Hills Discover Center - One weekday evening from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM; and two weekday mornings from 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM, as well as a minimum of two weekends each month; from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

The City of Manhattan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and believe the best workplaces bring together employees with diverse skill sets, backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints to achieve common goals. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any basis protected by law.