ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Zoo Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Zoological Society

Events Assistant

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

The Zoo is committed to inspiring our community to take action to save the world's wildlife and their ecosystems. Our vision is a world where everyone values wildlife and the environment. We ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsZoo JobsZoo Jobs in Virginia

Zoo information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$14

$28

How much do zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo in Virginia is $14.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.82 and $16.13 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Zoo jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Zoo job openings:

Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,383 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Zookeeper I (Temporary Zookeeper I Birds)

Norfolk, VA • On-site

City of Norfolk
Public Administration • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about City of Norfolkexternal

$21.20/hr

Part-time, Temporary

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description Norfolk, Virginia stands as America's most genuine and dynamic urban waterfront city. It is the home to the world's largest naval station and serves as the business, arts, and cultural hub of Coastal Virginia. Consistently ranked as an exemplary place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous reputable publications.

The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is currently seeking to employ an enthusiastic and seasoned Temporary Zookeeper specializing in Birds. Zookeeper roles are pivotal in ensuring animal care, welfare, and safe working conditions within the zoo, which houses numerous rare, endangered, and potentially dangerous species. This position will operate within a collaborative team environment, contributing significantly to maintaining high standards in animal care, presentation, and customer service for nearly 500,000 annual zoo visitors.

The candidate will primarily work with the Bird team within the avian section but may be required to assist in any of the zoo's animal care areas as needed. ***The department hiring rate for this position is $21.20 per hour*** Essential Functions Essential functions include but are not limited to: Observes animals, checking for medical problems, changes in behavior, feeding habits, and overall well-being. Feeds animals as specified by curatorial and veterinary staff in accordance with nutritional and behavioral requirements

Cleans, disinfects and maintains animal exhibits, enclosures, food and water dishes, pools and other areas. Keeps daily records on each animal (behavioral observations, and exhibit integrity and maintenance, etc.). Supervises interns when required

Conducts animal demonstrations for zoo visitors and writes educational presentations. Must be able to handle and assist in the restraint and capture of animals. Must be able to lift heavy feed and manure receptacles and walk long distances.

Must have knowledge of behavioral characteristics and handling procedures for assigned animals. Must have knowledge of animal restraint apparatus such as ropes, squeeze cages, catch poles, shifts, nets, etc. Must be able to use tools and operate small equipment.

Required normal hearing and seeing capabilities and the ability to stand, bend, lift, stoop, push and pull. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and work in a team environment. Must work in a friendly and professional manner with staff, volunteers, colleagues and zoo visitors.

Other duties as assigned. Education/Experience Work requires broad knowledge in a general profession or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor's degree or equivalent.

One year of experience as an Animal Caretaker. The preferred candidates will possess: A minimum of three months' experience working in an AZA accredited institution as a zookeeper, paid zookeeper intern, or similar position. Additional Information & Requirements Valid Driver's License Work hours: Working a flexible schedule, which can vary.

Working weekends and holidays may be required. Work location: Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk 23504 Intermittent\Retiree Part-time Employees: Intermittent\Retiree part-time employees will work no more than 1040 hours in a twelve (12) month period of time. The hours are flexible and based on the department's operation needs.

This position is not eligible for benefits.

Apply