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Zoologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zoological Care Supervisor - Evergreen Zoological Care Supervisor REQUISITION/ Title Information Title: Zoological Care Supervisor Park: Busch Gardens Tampa Minimum Age: 18 Employee Class: Full Time ...

NY · On-site

$195 - $261/hr

Zoological & Aquarium Operations Provide vision, leadership, and direction for animal care, animal health, scientific operations, life-support systems, and Guest engagement across the assigned ...

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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How much do zoologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoologist in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zoologist?

Zoologists are scientists who study animals and their behavior, physiology, classification, and distribution. They may focus on specific species or groups of animals, and often conduct research in the field or in laboratories. Zoologists play a crucial role in wildlife conservation, environmental management, and understanding animal health and ecosystems. Their work can involve observing animals in their natural habitats, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to learn more about animal life.

What do zoologists do?

Zoologists are scientists who study animals. Most Zoologists split their time between lab or office work and fieldwork. Fieldwork allows them to study and gather data like migration patterns, reproduction statistics, and observe interactions of the animals with their environment. Lab and office work is needed to process and document results. They monitor things like the animals’ health and nutrition, often taking blood samples to learn about parasites, diseases, and the animal’s genetics. In addition to all this, Zoologists will also write papers, reports, and academic material on their work.

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

To thrive as a Zoologist, you need a solid background in biology, ecology, and animal behavior, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in zoology or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, GIS systems, and laboratory or fieldwork equipment is typically required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate findings clearly help set top candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for conducting research, analyzing data, and effectively sharing insights that advance our understanding and conservation of animal species.

What are some common challenges zoologists face when conducting field research?

Zoologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote study sites during field research. They may also face logistical difficulties, like transporting equipment and obtaining necessary permits for wildlife observation. Additionally, ensuring minimal disturbance to animal habitats while collecting accurate data requires careful planning and adaptability. Overcoming these challenges is essential for successful data collection and contributes to the overall skill development of a zoologist.

What is the difference between Zoologist vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectZoologistWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in zoology, biology, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in biology, ecology, or related field
Work EnvironmentZoos, research labs, universities, fieldworkField research, conservation areas, national parks
Employer & IndustryZoos, research institutions, universitiesGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, research institutes
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both zoologists and wildlife biologists study animals, but zoologists often focus on specific species or groups in controlled environments like zoos or labs, while wildlife biologists primarily conduct field research to understand animals in their natural habitats. The roles overlap in education and research, but their work settings and focus areas differ.

Do zoologists get paid a lot?

Zoologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn a moderate income. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for zoologists and wildlife biologists was around $63,000 as of 2021. Advanced degrees and specialized skills can lead to higher pay and more opportunities in research or management roles.

Is zoologist a good career choice?

A zoologist studies animals and their behaviors, often working in research, conservation, or education environments. The career typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or related fields, with advanced roles demanding a master's or Ph.D. Job prospects can be competitive, and salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization.

What jobs can you get in zoology?

Zoologists can work in research, conservation, wildlife management, education, and environmental consulting. They often work in laboratories, zoos, aquariums, or field settings, and may require knowledge of data analysis, species identification, and field equipment. Career options include research scientist, wildlife biologist, conservation officer, zoo curator, and environmental educator.

What type of work does a zoologist do?

A zoologist studies animals and their behaviors, habitats, and physiology. They conduct field research, collect data, and analyze specimens, often working in laboratories, zoos, or natural environments. Zoologists may also develop conservation plans and require knowledge of biology and ecology, along with skills in observation and data collection.

What cities are hiring for Zoologist jobs?

Cities with the most Zoologist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Zoologist jobs?

The most popular types of Zoologist jobs are:

What states have the most Zoologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Zoologist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Zoologist jobs?

For Zoologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Zoologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Supervisory Research Zoologist

Smithsonian Institution

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 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

Summary
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 Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI), Washington, DC. with duty location in either Washington D.C. or Front Royal, VA.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
The Supervisory Research Zoologist leads research groups and conducts research in one or several areas of expertise, including, but not limited to, using genomic and transcriptomic data to assess genetic diversity, adaptation, resilience and population history.
In this position, you will:
  • Lead the development of a multifaceted research program in conservation genomics that addresses a broad range of complex scientific questions and applied conservation challenges.
  • Conduct research using one or several advanced technologies and tools such as genomic, transcriptomic, environmental DNA (eDNA), and ancient DNA approaches to evaluate genetic diversity, population history, species distribution, abundance, diet, evolutionary processes, and conservation outcomes, while advancing bioinformatics tools and methods to inform conservation strategies.
  • Develop and communicate scientifically rigorous conclusions through peer-reviewed publications and other scholarly contributions that advance the field of conservation genomics.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert and consultant to scientists, researchers, and professionals within Federal agencies, universities, laboratories, zoological parks, and research institutions on matters related to conservation genomics.
  • Supervise, direct, coordinate, and oversee the programs functions, and initiatives performed by staff.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Investigation
  • May need to complete a Probationary Period
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer
  • Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.

Conditions of Employment
Qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement.
For information on qualification requirements, see Qualification Standards Handbook for General Schedule Positions on OPM website.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
  1. Degree: zoology; or a related discipline or field of science that included at least 20 semester hours in zoology and related animal sciences.
    OR
  2. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in zoology, or in a related discipline that included course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Graduate Education: To be qualifying, graduate study must have been in one of the major fields of zoology or have followed a curriculum or pattern of training that placed major emphasis on one of these disciplines or subject-matter fields, such as nematology or parasitology. Graduate study in related fields of science such as microbiology, medicine, veterinary medicine, or plant pathology that involved cross-training in zoology or one of the fields of zoology may also be qualifying, provided there was a sufficient amount of emphasis on zoology.
In addition to the basic qualification requirement above:
Experience: You qualify for this position if you have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 level in the Federal Service. For this position, specialized experience is defined as developing, planning, and implementing a science and conservation program, leading and supervising others that lead to advance the field of conservation genomics and related research areas.
Your resume must be no more than two (2) pages and should clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the responsibilities and specialized experience required for this position. Do not copy language directly from the vacancy announcement, as you will be deemed ineligible for consideration. Instead, provide detailed, descriptive information about your actual experience.
In addition to a two-page resume, please provide a Curriculum Vitae (CV) with your publications, grants, professional accomplishments, and other relevant qualifications and activities.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Part-time and/or unpaid experience related to this position will be considered to determine the total number of years and months of experience. Be sure to note the number of paid or unpaid hours worked each week.
Or a Combination: Education and experience may be combined to meet the basic qualifications. For a full explanation of this option please see the Qualification Standards. Special instructions for Foreign Education: If you are qualifying by education and/or you have education completed in a foreign college/university described above, it is your responsibility to provide transcripts and proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study. For instructions on where to fax these documents, see the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
Additional information
This position is not included in the bargaining unit.
Recruitment Incentive: Recruitment incentive(s) may be authorized for this position. However, approval for incentives are contingent upon various availability. If authorized, certain incentives will require the incumbent to sign a service agreement to remain in the Federal government for a certain time period.
Note: This statement does not imply nor guarantee an incentive will be offered and paid.
Selections may be made for vacancies across the Smithsonian Institution (SI). By applying to this position, you agree to allow your application and other personal information to be shared with one or more SI hiring officials for employment consideration for same/similar positions within the location(s) identified in this announcement.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
The Smithsonian offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, vacation and sick leave, holidays, health/life insurance, accident insurance, and excellent retirement program options.
Please see Benefits at https://www.si.edu/OHR/benefits for a complete description.
Flexible Spending Accounts - https://www.fsafeds.com/
Health Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/index.asp
Leave - http://www.opm.gov/oca/leave/index.asp
Life Insurance - http://www.opm.gov/insure/life/index.asp
Long Term Care Insurance - http://www.ltcfeds.com
Retirement Program - https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services/

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