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Zoo Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

New York Aquarium

Federal Legislative Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$17 - $22/hr

WCS combines the power of its zoos and an aquarium in New York City and a Global Conservation Program in more than 50 countries to achieve its mission to save wildlife and wild places. WCS runs the ...

Base-2 Solutions, LLC

DevOps Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$55 - $75.25/hr

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

Base-2 Solutions, LLC

DevOps Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$59.75 - $81.75/hr

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

Base-2 Solutions, LLC

Senior Java Developer

Washington, DC · On-site

$64.75 - $82.75/hr

The role involves planning and executing upgrades across the technology stack, including Apache Solr with ZooKeeper, Apache Tomcat, Apache Directory Studio, and Java/Python components running on ...

Base-2 Solutions, LLC

Senior Java Developer

Reston, VA · On-site

$59.50 - $76/hr

The role involves planning and executing upgrades across the technology stack, including Apache Solr with ZooKeeper, Apache Tomcat, Apache Directory Studio, and Java/Python components running on ...

Trinity ES LLC

Software Developer

Herndon, VA · On-site

Docker, Git / JIRA, Kubernetes, Jenkins, Conductor, Kafka/Zookeeper, Consul, CMDB. * Big data technologies to include: Data Ingest (JSON, Kafka, Microservices, Elastic Search), Analytics (HIVE, SPARK ...

Reinventing Geospatial (RGi)

DevOps Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$54.25 - $74.25/hr

Docker, Git / JIRA, Kubernetes, Jenkins, Conductor, Kafka/Zookeeper, Consul, CMDB. Big data technologies to include: Data Ingest (JSON, Kafka, Microservices, Elastic Search), Analytics (HIVE, SPARK ...

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All JobsZoo JobsZoo Jobs in Springfield, VA

Zoo information

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 Springfield, VA?

The most popular types of Zoo jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Zoo jobs in Springfield, VA?

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

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Zoo jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Zoo job openings:

Zoo jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo job openings in Springfield, VA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Guest Services Manager-Nova Wild Zoo

Reston, VA • On-site

Sikat Group LLC
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Sikat Group LLCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage the day-to-day operations of the guest services department, including ticketing, memberships, guest relations, and gift shop.

  • Hire, train, and supervise guest services staff to ensure excellent customer service and adherence to policies.

  • Oversee the implementation of strategies to enhance the guest experience, increase visitor satisfaction, and promote repeat visitation.

Job description

Job Description: We are seeking a dynamic and guest-focused individual to join our team as the Zoo Guest Services Manager. In this role, you will be responsible for providing exceptional experiences for our guests by overseeing all aspects of guest services, including ticketing, memberships, visitor information, special events, and retail store. The ideal candidate is passionate about delivering outstanding customer service, building positive relationships with guests, and enhancing the overall visitor experience at our zoo.
Responsibilities:
  • Manage the day-to-day operations of the guest services department, including ticketing, memberships, guest relations, and gift shop.
  • Hire, train, and supervise guest services staff, ensuring they deliver excellent customer service and adhere to zoo policies and procedures.
  • Develop and implement strategies to enhance the guest experience, increase visitor satisfaction, increase revenue, and promote repeat visitation.
  • Oversee the ticketing system, including pricing, promotions, and sales reporting under direction of the zoo ownership.
  • Ensures efficiency of ticketing, field trips, and special events. Relays guest feedback and interacts with guests to obtain feedback.
  • Coordinate the implementation of membership programs, including recruitment, retention, and benefits administration.
  • Serve as a liaison between guests and other zoo departments to address inquiries, complaints, and special requests.
  • Collaborate with marketing, facilities, and animal care teams to plan and execute special events, promotions, and educational programs.
  • Monitor guest feedback and implement improvements based on survey data and visitor comments.
  • Maintains and over sees guest services budget and coordinates with owners on expenses.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and accessibility standards to provide a welcoming environment for all guests.
  • Experience in crisis mitigation and prevention
  • Cross trains with animal care teams and facilities teams to assist where needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field (preferred).
  • Previous experience in guest services, hospitality, or customer service management, preferably in a zoo, museum, theme park, or similar environment.
  • Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a team. Experience with scheduling and implementing disciplinary action.
  • Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on attention to detail.
  • Experience managing and making budgets.
  • Proven revenue generating skills and mindset.
  • Experience working with vendors and coordinating with gift shop manager to increase revenue and sales throughout the park.
  • Proficiency with square point of sale systems
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Ability to work weekends, holidays, and evenings.
  • Passion for wildlife conservation and environmental education.
  • CPR and First Aid certification (preferred).
Benefits:
  • Healthcare, matching 401k, paid time off

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