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Zookeeper Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary: The Business Administratorwill provide customer service and hospitality, coordinate and manage ...

Maryland Zoo

Business Administrator

Baltimore, MD

Knowledgeof Zoo's website to assist with email or phone inquiries about Zoo events,programs or campus. * Provideguests with informat i on on all aspects of the Zoo experience, exhibits,on-ground ...

Maryland Zoo

Guest Services Agent (Part-Time)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Additionally, the Guest Services Agent will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustainability, conservation ...

Maryland Zoo

Commissary Keeper

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$19.20/hr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary : The Commissary Keeper will prepare, deliver, store,and stock food, hay, supplies, purchased orders, and ...

Maryland Zoo

Area Manager (Penguin Coast)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary : Provides day-to-dayleadership and management of specific animal areas which supports the missionand core ...

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How much do zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for zookeeper in Silver Spring, MD is $20.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zookeeper?

Zookeepers are animal care professionals responsible for the daily care, feeding, and monitoring of animals in zoos and wildlife parks. They ensure the animals’ habitats are clean and safe, observe animal behavior for signs of illness, and assist with breeding programs and public education efforts. Zookeepers often work with veterinarians to maintain animal health and may also help with conservation initiatives. This role requires a passion for animals, physical stamina, and strong observation skills.

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 solid background in animal science, biology, or zoology—often with a relevant degree or hands-on experience in animal care. Familiarity with animal management software, husbandry equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong observational skills, patience, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the health and well-being of animals, support public education, and maintain a safe, collaborative working environment.

What are some common challenges faced by zookeepers when caring for a variety of animal species?

Zookeepers often manage animals with diverse needs, ranging from dietary requirements to enrichment and behavioral health. One common challenge is adapting care routines for different species, especially when working with both domesticated and exotic animals. Additionally, zookeepers must remain vigilant about safety protocols to protect themselves and the animals, and they regularly collaborate with veterinarians and other staff to monitor health and well-being. Balancing the animals' welfare with public education and visitor engagement can also require creative problem-solving and strong communication skills.

Do zookeepers make a lot of money?

Zookeepers typically earn a moderate salary that varies by experience, location, and employer. According to industry data, the median annual wage for zookeepers is around $30,000 to $40,000, with higher earnings possible for those with advanced skills or specialized certifications. Many zookeepers work full-time and may receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What qualifications do you need for a zookeeper?

Zookeepers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring candidates with a degree or coursework in biology, zoology, or animal science. Relevant experience, such as volunteering or internships, along with strong physical stamina and knowledge of animal care and safety procedures, are also important qualifications.
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The most popular types of Zookeeper jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

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For Zookeeper jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Infographic showing various Zookeeper job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,611 per year, or $20 per hour.

Business Administrator

Maryland Zoo

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
General Summary: The Business Administratorwill provide customer service and hospitality, coordinate and manage officeactivities, and provide administrative and organizational support.Responsibilities include intercepting incoming communications into the Zoo anddirecting individuals to the appropriate department or employee. The BusinessAdministrator is responsible for exciting, engaging and entertaining guests ina manner that promotes a positive Zoo experience. This position reports to the AssistantDirector of Guest Services - Sales & Revenue. Additionally, the BusinessAdministrator will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wildplaces and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustainability,conservation, education, and DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, andInclusion) goals.
To meet current businessdemands of the Maryland Zoo, the Business Administrator schedule covers a seven-dayschedule that includes mandatory weekend coverage. The Business Administratorworks five consecutive days each week at the Zoo's Mansion House and serves asthe first person that guests encounter upon their entry into the building.
Essential Functions:
Information,Sales and Customer Service
  • Greetvisitors, vendors, and other guests entering the Mansion House and contact appropriatestaff or departments to direct them accordingly.
  • Informdepartment contacts when vendors arrive and need escorts.
  • Knowledgeof all Zoo products and the ability to sell Zoo products or services
  • Knowledgeof Zoo's website to assist with email or phone inquiries about Zoo events,programs or campus.
  • Provideguests with information on all aspects of the Zoo experience, exhibits,on-ground activities (including times and locations), routes through the Zoo,construction, shuttles, rides, attractions and membership information.
  • Responsiblefor answering and directing incoming telephone calls, screening inquiries,taking messages, and providing information in a timely, courteous andprofessional manner.
  • Interactin a consistently pleasant and helpful manner to fellow employees, volunteers,guests, vendors, and other visitors of the Zoo and demonstrate the higheststandards of internal and external customer service.
  • Respondappropriately to guest questions, comments and concerns internally andexternally.
  • Triageand respond to online guest inquiries and feedback.
  • Troubleshootand resolve guest order issues in a timely manner.
  • Developand maintain comprehensive knowledge of Zoo products and services that includeaccurate pricing as well as knowledge of animal collection and exhibits.
  • Obtainaccurate and detailed information from customers in order to complete andconfirm reservations.
  • Promotethe mission of the Zoo.
  • Communicatewith all personnel, volunteers, visitors, vendors and contractors in aprofessional manner.
  • DistributeZoo literature, including but not limited to maps, event flyers, Zoograms andother Zoo literature, and maintain appropriate par levels.

Organizationaland Business Support:
  • AssistMansion House administrative staff including the Zoo's president
  • Assisteducation, group sales, development, events, marketing and communicationdepartments as needed for cross utilization of skills and manpower.
  • Performother duties as assigned by all departments.
  • AssistGuest Services department with administrative responsibilities and paperwork.
  • Assistthe Education team in making reservations with educators who need information.or would like to book a field trip at the Zoo via the State of Maryland's freefield trip program.
  • Completeand mail all confirmation materials in accordance with educational grantstandards, as needed.
  • Maintaina filing system for tracking pertinent information in regards to each bookingfor education programs.
  • Utilizethe Zoo email system to communicate effectively for all business needs.
  • Providea variety of clerical duties; perform other duties as assigned.
  • Accuratelyprocess and distribute incoming mail and act as point person for allreceivables including but not limited to FedEx, UPS and courier services.
  • Providefield support in other Guest Services work areas as needed.
  • Assistin maintaining group calendar for scheduling Mansion House conference rooms,administration golf carts, and on-grounds Penguin Encounters.

DatabaseManagement, Communications and Safety Support:
  • Proficientwith the use of Zoo's software system and databases to sell Zoo productsand make guest reservations for events and programs via phone or internet.
  • Responsiblefor point-of-sale data input, data ownership and accuracy of all constituentrecords.
  • Knowledgeof database functions and reporting.
  • Assistwith database management.
  • Respondand resolve any issues in the point of sale system.
  • Knowledgeand use of campus-wide radio system to communicate or assist with informationin regards to safety protocol or procedures.
  • Serveas communication dispatcher during emergency situations and assist the SecurityDepartment to serve as their dispatcher when needed.
  • Knowledgeof code alpha and code beta procedures.
  • Monitorguest behavior to ensure their safety at the Zoo; ensure guest safety at alltimes.
  • Performduties in coordination with administration staff; report any issues, supplyneeds, and necessary ground floor repairs, etc. to administrative personnel.
  • Monitorall staff radio communication and respond to calls at Base as needed.
  • Ensureguest safety at all times.
  • Adhereto all policies and procedures at the Zoo.
  • Maintaincleanliness at work location.
  • Compileand distribute verbally the Zoo's daily report for personnel.
  • Communicatewith fellow employees by radio contact as needed following Zoo radio etiquetteand protocol at all times.
  • Contactappropriate staff to resolve guest issues.
  • Interactin a professional, polite and informed manner with all personnel, volunteers,visitors, vendors and contractors.

Minimum Qualifications:
Hospitality:
  • Friendly, outgoing, andapproachable;
  • Possess a positive andpatient attitude; and,
  • Possess excellent verbal andwritten communication skills.

Education:
  • High school diploma or GEDequivalent required; and,
  • Bachelor's Degree preferred.

Experience/Training:
  • Customer service experiencerequired;
  • Six months of administrativesupport or related experience strongly preferred;
  • Basic knowledge of MicrosoftOffice, Google Workspace, and web-based applications required; and,
  • Familiarity withPoint-Of-Sale systems strongly preferred.

Working Conditions:
  • Ability to work a flexibleschedule to include weekends, holidays, and special events;
  • Must be able to exert up to35 pounds of force to lift, push, pull, carry, or otherwise move objects;
  • Exposure to potentialenvironmental hazards such as poison oak/ivy, uneven terrain, insectbites/stings, and Hepatitis B depending on the position.

Equipment:
  • Must be able to operate acomputer, two-way radio, multi-line telephone, copier/ scanner, etc.

Traits Desirable:
  • Ability to work withindividuals from a wide variety of ethnic, cultural, and economic backgrounds.
  • Reliable and punctual workethic.

Benefits:
  • We offer an excellent benefits package including 24days of Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick and Safe Leave, and 2 paid holidays.
  • Eligible for medical, dental, vision, short- andlong-term disability and life insurance.
  • 401(k) with employer match.
  • Zoo membership plus 16 guest passes.

Disclaimer: Thestatements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of workbeing performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are notintended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, dutiesand/or skills required of all personnel so classified. Therefore, managementreserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or differenttasks be performed when circumstances change.
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