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Zoo Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Merced County, CA

Child Support Specialist I

Merced, CA · On-site

$43K - $53K/yr

The discounts and coupons are available for shopping, movies, sporting events, theme parks, zoos and aquariums and much more. THIS BULLETIN IS NOT A CONTRACT AND DOES NOT CREATE CONTRACTUAL OR LEGAL ...

Merced County, CA

Deputy Director Planning

Merced, CA · On-site

$125K - $152K/yr

The discounts and coupons are available for shopping, movies, sporting events, theme parks, zoos and aquariums and much more. THIS BULLETIN IS NOT A CONTRACT AND DOES NOT CREATE CONTRACTUAL OR LEGAL ...

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Showing results 21-27

All JobsZoo JobsZoo Jobs in Merced, CA

Zoo information

See Merced, CA salary details

$5

$15

$30

How much do zoo jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo in Merced, CA is $15.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.27 and $16.87 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 job categories do people searching Zoo jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Zoo jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Zoo jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Zoo job openings:

Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,772 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Director of Rehab - Contract Position

Jackson Therapy

Merced, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

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

Job description

Make a significant contribution as an experienced Director of Rehab in a full-time contract with Jackson Therapy Partners! You'll recruit and train staff, develop therapy strategies, evaluate patient care, and cultivate relationships with colleges of related professions. Combine your passion for helping others with the adventure of exploring a new location!
Minimum Requirements

  • Graduate of an approved school of Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, or Physical Therapy, with a bachelor's or associate degree
  • Active state license required before your first day
  • For schools, valid state special education certificate may be required
Apply now
Apply now and you'll be contacted by a recruiter who'll give you more information.
Benefits Designed for Therapy Pros
We deeply value your commitment to impacting others, that's why we offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package starting your first day.
  • Weekly, On-Time Pay because that's how it should be
  • Full Medical Benefits & 401k Matching Plan
  • 24/7 Recruiter: Your main point of contact available by text, phone or email
  • Competitive Referral Bonuses
  • 100% Paid Housing Available
  • Travel & License Reimbursement
Impacting Patient Care Nationwide
Join Jackson Therapy Partners as a rehab director and get the flexibility, stability, and growth you deserve. Enjoy full-time pay, benefits, and relocation assistance in travel contracts that let you explore your favorite locations while maintaining job security in diverse settings nationwide. Choose from a variety of career options including direct hire, temp-to-hire, and travel contracts using ProVenture, our AI-enhanced career app designed for healthcare professionals.
Location Highlights
Merced offers access to both urban amenities and outdoor destinations, with Yosemite National Park about 80 miles away and UC Merced located on the city's northeastern edge. Lake Yosemite is about 8 miles from downtown and provides boating, fishing, and picnic areas for a quieter lifestyle fit. The Merced Multimodal Transportation Center connects the city to Amtrak San Joaquins and regional bus routes, and Applegate Park Zoo sits near central Merced for local recreation. Merced is located in California's San Joaquin Valley and provides a central base within driving distance of Fresno and the Sierra Nevada foothills.
EEO Statement
Jackson Healthcare and its family of companies are an EEO/AA Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, disability or protected veteran status. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all of our associates.
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About Jackson Therapy Partners

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 2006, Jackson Therapy Partners has provided allied and therapy staffing for over 1,300 rehab facilities, schools, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities nationwide. Awarded Best of Staffing 2022 and Top Workplace by the Orlando Sentinel, our team of recruiters will inspire you, cheer you on, and lead with kindness while helping you build an adventurous, life-changing, travel career.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Orlando, FL, US

Social media

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