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Zoo Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Retail Attendant

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$12.25 - $15.25/hr

Ever work at a zoo, it's fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo ...

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Line Cook

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Ever work at a zoo, it's fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo ...

Binder Park Zoo

Seasonal Food Lead

Battle Creek, MI

$14 - $19/hr

Ever work at a zoo, it's fun! At Binder Park Zoo you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We love what we do working at the zoo ...

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Bartender 18+

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$14.50/hr

Zoo Membership - during employment ($135 Value)  * Free Bus Passes   * Scholarship Opportunities * Free Lunches ($100 Value)  * Incentive Opportunities for Close Encounters and Behind-The ...

John Ball Zoo

Facilities Maintenance II

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$22.04/hr

Ability to interact positively and appropriately with coworkers, supervisors, managers, Zoo guests, contractors, concessionaires, and members of the general public with diverse cultural and socio ...

John Ball Zoo

Seasonal Face Painter

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$13.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY Bring art to life at the zoo as a Face Painter! Join our team to add vibrant colors and excitement. If you love working with kids, have an artistic flair, and enjoy creating themed ...

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All JobsZoo JobsZoo Jobs in Michigan

Zoo information

See Michigan salary details

$5

$13

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How much do zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo in Michigan is $13.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $8.87 and $14.57 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 Michigan?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Michigan are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Zoo jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Zoo job openings:

Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,436 per year, or $13.2 per hour.

Zookeeper, Full-Time

Binder Park Zoo

Battle Creek, MI

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

ZOOKEEPER
Mission Statement: To Connect, Inspire, Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve.

REPORTS TO: Collections Supervisor
SEASONAL/NON-SEASONAL: Non-seasonal, Benefited
FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:
To assist the zoo in accomplishing its mission while providing daily care of a variety of exotic and domestic animals.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Four year related degree OR a two year related degree AND two years’ paid experience in an animal related field.
  • Minimum one year experience caring for captive wildlife in a zoo setting.
  • Experience working with giraffe, African hoofstock and / or primates a plus.
  • Excellent communication, judgment and record keeping skills.
  • Possessing a strong interest in working with animals and people.
  • Proof of negative TB test within one year and proof of tetanus shot within ten years.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Daily cleaning, feeding, and observing a group of potentially dangerous animals in a designated area.
  • Implement animal behavioral programs (operant conditioning/enrichment).
  • Maintaining accurate records.
  • Daily informing supervisor and veterinarian on physical and behavioral health of the animals in their areas.
  • Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of exhibits, guest viewing areas and animal holding areas.
  • Assisting with veterinary procedures as needed.
  • Complying with all AZA and USDA standards and regulations.
  • Relate positively with diverse groups of people, including guests, staff, volunteers and vendors.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Providing assistance to co-workers, zoo attendants, interns and volunteers when needed.
  • Responsible for giving keeper talks.
  • Complying with safety regulations when handling hazardous materials.
  • Interacting positively with guests and providing assistance when needed.
  • Complying with all Binder Park Zoo policies and procedures.
  • Participating in team oriented zoo projects as needed.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: N/A

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
  • Ability to work long hours on a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings, holidays and emergencies.
  • Ability to read, speak and write English in order to fulfill job functions in an understandable way.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in a physically demanding environment.

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