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Zoological Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Compensation Range - $12.77 - $22.00 USD The Zoological Specialist, Associate is responsible for providing consistent care and training of the collection of all assigned animals at the Highland ...

This role supports training sessions for a wide variety of zoological animal areas and programs. You will perform daily husbandry tasks, including administering vitamins and medications as directed ...

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Zoological information

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$24.5K

$130.2K

$210.5K

How much do zoological jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoological in the United States is $130,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoologist?

Zoologists are scientists who study animals and their behavior, physiology, genetics, and interactions with their environments. They may conduct research in the field or in laboratories, observe animals in their natural habitats, and collect data to better understand animal species. Zoologists often work in conservation, education, or research to help protect wildlife and inform the public about animal biology. Their work can contribute to efforts to conserve endangered species and maintain biodiversity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoologist, you generally need a strong background in animal biology, ecology, and scientific research, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in zoology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory and field research tools, data analysis software, and sometimes GIS systems is often required. Excellent observation skills, attention to detail, communication, and teamwork help zoologists excel in both independent and collaborative research settings. These skills and qualifications are crucial for conducting accurate research, advancing scientific knowledge, and contributing to wildlife conservation efforts.

What are some of the common challenges faced by professionals working in zoological roles within zoos or wildlife parks?

Professionals in zoological roles often face challenges such as balancing animal welfare with visitor engagement, adapting to evolving animal care standards, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team that includes veterinarians, educators, and maintenance staff. Additionally, they may encounter the physical demands of working outdoors in various weather conditions and responding to unexpected animal health or behavioral issues. Overcoming these challenges requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning about animal behavior and conservation.
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What cities are hiring for Zoological jobs?

Cities with the most Zoological job openings:

What states have the most Zoological jobs?

States with the most job openings for Zoological jobs include:

Infographic showing various Zoological job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,157 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Zoological Specialist, Senior (Coral Rescue)

SeaWorld

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

At SeaWorld, we're passionate about caring for animals. In fact, we've already rescued over 40,000 animals (and counting!). And we can save you from being stuck in just another job. Join us and help bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories to people from around the world. We're seeking enthusiastic, dedicated, and hard-working individuals to become our Ambassadors. Join us and play an important part on our incredible team!

What you get to do:

You will maintain husbandry of fish and other aquatic life in aquarium exhibits, including preparing food and feeding animals. This role will involve providing proper aquarium maintenance, such as algae removal, display diving, aquarium decorating, preventive maintenance, pump replacement, etc. You will:

  • Perform basic water quality testing, chemical additions, salt water make up, pH and temperature testing

  • Utilize knowledge of aquarium husbandry techniques, including taxonomy, record keeping, aquarium filtration, aquarium theory, and emergency procedures

  • Monitor aquarium health-related issues, including parasitic identification/treatment, and perform area quarantine procedures as needed

  • Assist with animal collecting and repairs to aquarium filtration systems

  • Answer guest questions concerning aquarium animals

  • Provide animal transports, in park and out of park

  • Follows proper park safety protocols and performs safety checks

  • Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, vendors and our guests

  • Perform other duties as assigned

As a 365 day/year operation, candidates are expected to provide flexible availability to support year-round operating needs. This may include, but is not limited to, working opening, mid-day and closing shifts during peak and non-peak seasons, as well as weekends and holidays.

What it takes to succeed:

  • At least 18 years of age

  • High school diploma

  • Have 18 or more months of experience in a similar public aquarium setting

  • Knowledge of food preparation and feeding techniques

  • Bachelor's degree in marine science or related field preferred

  • SCUBA certification

  • Valid driver's License

  • Strong communication, math, guest service and multitasking skills

What else is important:

  • Able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.

  • Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed

  • You will perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)

  • Able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat

  • Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors and cold/heat temperature extremes

  • Will perform cleaning duties; including use of cleaning chemicals

  • Will work flexible schedules/hours based on business needs, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays

  • Flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities

Position level and Compensation rate will be contingent on professional zoological animal care experience at an AZA or equivalent facility.

Level is determined through review and assessment of applicable experience by Zoo leadership. Experience required for each level is detailed below:

  • Associate: Entry level position
  • Specialist: Minimum of 12 months (2,080 hours) professional zoological experience
  • Senior:Minimum of 2.5 years (5,200 hours) professional zoological experience
  • Senior 1:Minimum of 5 years (10,400 hours) professional zoological experience

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

The perks of the position:

  • Paid Time Off
  • Complimentary Park Tickets and Passes
  • Park Discounts on Food and Merchandise
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401K Retirement plan
  • Voluntary Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Legal Assistance Plan

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.