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Zoo Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

DAN Solutions

DevOps Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$55.75 - $76.25/hr

Build and maintain Apache Solr clusters with Zookeeper in production environments * Administer Windows Server environments and orchestrate infrastructure upgrades * Plan and execute migration ...

DAn Solutions

DevOps Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$55 - $75.25/hr

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with GitLab CI/CD pipelines, Nexus Repository management, and building and maintaining Apache Solr clusters with Zookeeper in production environments.

DAn Solutions

Java Developer

Reston, VA · On-site

$53 - $68.75/hr

You will be responsible for planning and executing upgrades across our technology stack, including Apache Solr with Zookeeper, Apache Tomcat, Apache Directory Studio, and Java/Python components ...

DAN Solutions

Java Developer

Reston, VA · On-site

$54 - $69.75/hr

You will be responsible for planning and executing upgrades across our technology stack, including Apache Solr with Zookeeper, Apache Tomcat, Apache Directory Studio, and Java/Python components ...

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All JobsZoo JobsZoo Jobs in Virginia

Zoo information

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$14

$28

How much do zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 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 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 zoo workers and what do they do?

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 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 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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,383 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Temporary Zookeeper I Birds - Part-time

City of Norfolk

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$21.20/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description The Virginia Zoo in Norfolk is seeking to hire an enthusiastic and experienced Temporary Zookeeper I Birds. Zookeeper positions play an essential role in animal care, welfare and ensuring safe working environments at the zoo where we maintain many rare, endangered and potentially dangerous animals. This position works in a team environment that plays a critical part of maintaining good standards of animal care, presentation and customer service to nearly 500,000 visitors to the zoo each year.

This position will be assigned to primarily work on the Bird team with animals housed within the bird section but may be required to work in any of the Animal Care areas as needed. The Virginia Zoological Park is committed to saving and protecting the world's wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world. Departmental Hiring Hourly Rate: $21.20 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. Requires 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 Completion of a 4-year bachelor's degree from an accredited college or an associate's degree specifically in zoo keeping from a college program specializing in zookeeping and wildlife management.

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.

Maximum of 1040 hours for this position. Work location: Virginia Zoological Park, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk 23504

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