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Zoo Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

mkecounty

Zoo - Associate Veterinarian

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$89K - $100K/yr

Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs. Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs. As a ...

mkecounty

Zoo - Associate Veterinarian

Milwaukee, WI

$89K - $100K/yr

Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs. Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs. As a ...

mkecounty

Zoo - Seasonal Grounds Worker

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$11.23 - $23.87/hr

Seasonal Grounds Zoo Worker Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Range: $11.23 - $23.87 Job Summary: To assist in the general upkeep of operations of the Zoological Gardens and to perform assigned duties ...

mkecounty

Zoo - Seasonal Grounds Worker

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$11.23 - $23.87/hr

Seasonal Grounds Zoo Worker Milwaukee County Zoo Hourly Pay Range: $11.23 - $23.87 Job Summary: To assist in the general upkeep of operations of the Zoological Gardens and to perform assigned duties ...

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All JobsZoo JobsZoo Jobs in Wisconsin

Zoo information

See Wisconsin salary details

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$13

$26

How much do zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo in Wisconsin is $13.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.22 and $15.15 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 Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Wisconsin are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Zoo jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Zoo job openings:

Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,528 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Zoo - Associate Veterinarian

mkecounty

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$89K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Associate­ Veterinarian

Milwaukee County Zoo

Salary Range: $89,107.20 - $100,000

Job Posting will close on 08/17/2026

Job Summary: Assists in the management of the Zoo Animal Health subdivision and associated programs.  Participates in the development and implementation of clinical and preventative veterinary programs.  As a member of the Animal Management Team, develops and implements Animal Division programs, and , procedures. Provides mentorship and oversight for the Zoological Medicine and Surgery resident as well as veterinary students. Manages the Commissary and Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator.  Participates in zoo conservation and research programs.  Oversee hospital operations in the absence of the Senior Staff Veterinarian.

                                                                             
Job Responsibilities:

  • Clinical Duties - Assists in developing and implementing the preventive and clinical medicine programs. Provides direct clinical care including, but not limited to, examinations, surgery, diagnostic and regulatory tests, treatments, and lab work interpretation.  Coordinates the veterinary medical aspects of animal shipments to and from the zoo. Maintains medical records.
  • Commissary Management  - Manage the Commissary and Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator.  Assist in diet development and evaluate diets within the park for diet drift and modify them as needed.   Monitor Commissary inventory and budget.  Identify and prioritize requests for facility maintenance and write purchase specifications for high volume and diverse dietary items in collaboration with the Commissary Animal Nutrition Coordinator.  Assess food quality. 
  • General Animal Division Management - As a member of Animal Management Team, participate in establishing animal department procedures, work rules,, and protocols, communicate related activities to zoo staff, research review, facility design and collection planning and management.
  • Conservation and Research - Manage or participate in zoological conservation, research or breeding programs.  Prepare reports and articles for presentation or publication; participate in zoological-related conferences, workshops, seminars and professional development activities.
  • Staff Leadership - Supervise the work and performance of the hospital staff in the absence of the Senior Staff Veterinarian, providing leadership through motivation, engagement, feedback, support and development.  Maximize employee and team effectiveness.  Coordinate the recruitment, hiring, orientation, training, and evaluation of the team in conjunction with the Senior Staff Veterinarian.  Maintain a positive culture of collaboration, accountability, and respectful behavior

Minimum Requirements:

 

  • Doctor Veterinary Medicine (DVM) - or a VMD degree from an AVMA accredited college or university
  • At least two (2) years or more experience working as a veterinarian in a zoo or wildlife park required
  • WI veterinary license or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire
  • USDA category II accreditation or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire
  • DEA and WI driver’s license or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire. 
  • Cervid and Elephant TB testing certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire

Preferred Qualifications

  • ACZM board certification or eligibility
  • Completion of an approved residency in Zoo Veterinary Medicine

NOTE: This position is unclassified and not subject to Civil Service Rules and Regulations. This original application is open to qualified candidates authorized to work in the United States. Appointee must establish Wisconsin State residency within six (6) months of appointment and maintain such residency during incumbency. During the application process please upload your updated resume and cover letter outlining experience. 

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