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Zookeeper Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

RPMGlobal

Senior Java Developer

Washington, DC · On-site

$130 - $170/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 ...

RPMGlobal

DevOps Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with GitLab CI/CD pipelines, Nexus Repository management, and building and maintaining Apache Solr clusters with ZooKeeper in production environments.

New

US Government Jobs

Animal Health Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Smithsonian Institution The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located in the Department of ...

Synergy ECP

Senior Java Software Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

Apache Accumulo, Apache Hadoop, Apache Zookeeper deployments Qualifications : Required : • Strong experience with enterprise/server-side Java development • Experience with the Spring Framework ...

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

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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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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.

Visitor Experience Associate, IS-1001-03

Smithsonian Institution

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Smithsonian Institution rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 29 rated museums

Job description

OPEN DATE: August 10, 2026             
CLOSING DATE: August 24, 2026 (This job will close once 200 applications are received which may be sooner than the closing date.)                 
POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund
APPOINTMENT TYPE: Permanent    
SCHEDULE: Full Time
DUTY LOCATION: Washington, DC 

Position sensitivity and risk:
Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk
Who May Apply:
Open to all qualified applicants

What are Trust Fund Positions?
Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). 
 
Conditions of Employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated.
  • Complete a Probationary Period.
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
  • The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
  • Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 
This position is located within the Guest Services Division at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI). The Visitor Experience Associate plays a vital front-line role in enhancing the overall guest experience at the Zoo. The incumbent supports daily visitor operations by assisting with admissions, providing information, facilitating engagement, and supporting special events and educational programming.

This position directly supports the Zoo's mission by fostering a welcoming, safe, and educational environment that encourages public appreciation of wildlife conservation.
Visitor Services, Ticketing & Guest Assistance
  • Greets and assists visitors with information on exhibits, animals, programs, and amenities.
  • Responds to visitor inquiries, wayfinding requests, and concerns.
  • Operates POS systems for ticket sales and rentals.
  • Verifies tickets and supports efficient visitor entry.
  • Processes cash and electronic transactions.
Visitor Engagement & Conflict Resolution
  • Shares information about animals, exhibits, and conservation efforts.
  • Assists with educational activities and guest experiences.
  • Addresses visitor concerns and complaints.
  • Supports the de-escalation of challenging situations.
Safety, Security & Facility Support
  • Monitors guest activity to support safety and conduct standards.
  • Assists during emergencies and reports safety concerns.
  • Maintains cleanliness in visitor-facing areas.
  • Reports facility and equipment issues as needed.
Teamwork & Event Support
  • Collaborates with staff across departments to enhance the visitor experience.
  • Participates in team meetings and training.
  • Assists with public and private event setup, operations, and breakdown.
  • Encourages guest participation during special events and programs.
Visitor Feedback & Reporting
  • Collects visitor feedback through surveys and guest interactions.
  • Records observations and visitor trends to support service improvements.
  • Communicates visitor feedback, concerns, and recommendations to supervisors.
Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Basic knowledge of visitor services practices and procedures to provide accurate information about Zoo exhibits, programs, and amenities.
  • Knowledge of and skill in customer service in order to listen and respond professionally to customer's complaints in positive helpful manner.
  • Practical knowledge of customer service principles and public engagement techniques to handle basic problems relating to a guest issues or questions.
  • Knowledge of and familiarity with the Zoo layout, exhibits, public programs, and conservation messages.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and courteously with the public, including children and diverse audiences.
  • Knowledge and awareness of safety and emergency protocols to assist in routine and urgent situations.
  • Knowledge and understanding of basic interpretive techniques to engage visitors in educational conversations.
  • Ability to sell routine admission tickets and memberships using Point of Sale (POS) systems and basic retail transaction protocols.
  • Ability to perform routine tasks involved in collecting cash and authorizing credit cards payments with accountability and accuracy.
  • Skill in restocking/replenishing supplies as needed.
Education completed outside the United States must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.
 
Any false statement in your application may result in rejection of your application and may also result in termination after employment begins.
  
Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."
 
Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.  
What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.
 
Relocation expenses are not paid.
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact LaDonnys Biagas (biagasl@si.edu). Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.  To learn more, please review the Smithsonian's Accommodation Procedures. 
 
The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To review The Smithsonian's EEO program information, please click the following: https://www.si.edu/oeo   

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