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Zookeeper Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Maryland Zoo

Security Officer (Part-Time)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$17/hr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status GeneralSummary : The Security Officer is asignificant position responsible for representing the organization and providinga ...

Maryland Zoo

Security Officer (Part-Time)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Additionally, the Security Officer 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

$19.20/hr

Additionally, the Commissary Keeperwill support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustainability, conservation ...

Maryland Zoo

Security Officer (Evening Shift)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

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

Maryland Zoo

Exhibits Specialist

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$21/hr

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status General Summary : Under the supervision of the Director of Animal Facilities, the ExhibitsSpecialist provides day-to-day ...

Maryland Zoo

Exhibits Specialist

Baltimore, MD

$21/hr

Additionally,the Exhibits Specialist will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife andprotect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governancesustainability, conservation ...

Yudrio, Inc

MarkLogic Certified DBA

Washington, DC · Remote

Yudrio is seeking a MarkLogic DBA to join our team in supporting an upcoming project with the Internal Revenue Service. We are looking for an enthusiastic self-starter who can meet deadlines in a ...

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 ...

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All JobsZookeeper JobsZookeeper Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Zookeeper information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

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How much do zookeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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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Zookeeper jobs near you
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.

Security Officer (Part-Time)

Maryland Zoo

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
GeneralSummary: The Security Officer is asignificant position responsible for representing the organization and providinga safe and secure environment for all internal and external customers andenforcing all policies at The Maryland Zoo. Additionally, the Security Officer will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustainability, conservation, education, and DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) goals.
Hours of Shift: Friday - Monday, 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Essential Functions:
Primary Functions:
  • Responsible for rotatingthroughout all buildings, grounds and all animal areas and reporting suspiciousconditions or unusual occurrences to Security Captain or Supervisor either in avehicle or on foot;
  • Respond to all requests forfirst aid, CRP, and/ or AED from guests or employees;
  • Attend to the needs of theindividual requesting assistance in a calm, professional, and ethical manner;
  • Respond to security relatedincidents occurring on zoo property, set the tone of enforcement in interactions,mitigate and defuse situations;
  • Respond to all alarms asdispatched;
  • Lead and manage all employeeor guest related incidents, providing detailed investigative information,witnesses, and accurate location(s) on reports;
  • Responsible for ensuring workrelated incidents are reported, investigated, appropriate medical attention issought and appropriate departments are contacted;
  • Responsible for maintainingrecords of employee or guest related incidents including after-hours calls;
  • Responsible for providingguest control, including challenging situations;
  • Participate in a rotation onthe Dispatch post located in the Security office which will include, but is notlimited to, monitoring all Zoo activity, and deploying fellow Security officersto the scene of activity as needed; facilitating 911 calls and centralized CodeAlpha and Code Beta communication needs; monitoring and communicating severeweather conditions; coordinating cab transportation for employee relatedincidents and accidents; and documenting and recording activities asappropriate;
  • Practice good safetyawareness and ensure guest safety at all times;
  • Perform other related dutiesas assigned by management;
  • Ensure all company policy andprocedures are followed; and,
  • Adhere to all policies andprocedures of the Zoo.

Communication (Internaland External):
  • Responsible for communicatingeffectively with staff and the public regarding standard operating procedures;
  • Work closely with contractedtemporary services and staff to ensure adherence to all Zoo policies andprocedures;
  • Write and investigaterequired shift and accident reports on employees, guests, and shift activities;
  • Submit written reports,without exception, of all incidents and activities occurring on Zoo propertyand in the immediate perimeter area (includes parking lot);
  • Monitor radios to ensureeffective communication;
  • Contact an appropriateSecurity staff member necessary to resolve security issues by radio contact asneeded to communicate information;
  • Attend meetings and representthe Zoo on various committees; and,
  • Maintain confidentiality andintegrity of information disclosed, accidentally discovered or communicated asan Officer, with or without specific instruction to do so, of employees,guests, volunteers, etc.

Management of Resources (Financial,Human Resources, Facilities):
  • Assistin organizing breaks for all assigned employees while ensuring adequatestaffing levels to control attendance flow; and,
  • Coordinate with otherdepartments as necessary to fulfill any needs related to special event requestsand departmental training.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Hospitality;
  • Friendly and outgoing;
  • Possess a positive andpatient attitude; and,
  • Possess excellent verbalcommunication skills.

Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience/Training:
  • Must be at least 21 yearsold;
  • Two years of security relatedexperience;
  • Good working knowledge ofsecurity operations in a business environment;
  • Proficiency with MicrosoftOffice software, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word;
  • Must possess or able tosuccessfully complete basic first aid, CPR and AED training within a month ofhire date and maintain these certifications set forth by the American Red Crossor equivalent association;
  • Valid driver's license;
  • Must possess a Security GuardCertificate

Working Conditions:
  • Must be able to stand andremain active for an eight-hour shift; Must be capable to stand or walk forlong periods of time (approximately 100% of their shift);
  • Mustbe able to travel or walk large areas of the Zoo as needed;
  • Abilityto patrol and monitor 125 acres on foot in all weather conditions;
  • Must be able to work in anoutdoor weather environment in all seasons and weather, includingheat/humidity, cold temperatures, and/or wet conditions;
  • Ability to work a flexibleschedule to include weekends, holidays, and special events; Ability to work allshifts and schedules including overtime;
  • Must be able to exert up to50 pounds of force to lift, push, pull, carry, or otherwise move objects; and,
  • Exposure to potential environmental hazards such as poison oak/ivy, uneven terrain, insect bites/stings, and Hepatitis B depending on the position; and,
  • Exposure to Zoonotic diseasesand risk of animal attack.

Equipment:
  • Must be able to operate avariety of machines and equipment including computer, copier, fax, scanner,telephone, two-way radio, golf carts, and vehicles.

Traits Desirable:
  • Ability to work withindividuals from a wide variety of ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds;
  • Deals with uncertainty, soundjudgment, integrity, safety management, professionalism, and reporting skills;
  • Strong organizational andcommunication skills;
  • Ability to make independentjudgment decisions within Zoo policy and procedures; and,
  • Ability to handle non-routinetasks and adapts to changing circumstances.

Disclaimer:
The statementsabove are intended to describe the general nature and level of work beingperformed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as anexhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of allpersonnel so classified. Therefore,management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other ordifferent tasks be performed when circumstances change.
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