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Zoologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SeaWorld

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 ...

SeaWorld

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 ...

SeaWorld

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 ...

SeaWorld

Zoological Specialist Associate

Busch, AR

$12.77 - $22/hr

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 ...

Dallas Zoo Management

On Call Zoologist

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY This is an entry-level position, on-call position in animal care, following established protocols to provide outstanding animal care for species in the section: food ...

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How much do zoologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 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 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 zoologists?

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 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.

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 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.
More about Zoologist jobs
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Zoologist jobs near you
Zoological Specialist, Aviculture (Specialist- Senior)

Zoological Specialist, Aviculture (Specialist- Senior)

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

At Discovery Cove Orlando, 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:
We have Animal Trainer positions in a variety of levels. All of them offer you the chance to provide care and compassionate training to a variety of magnificent animals. You will perform daily husbandry tasks, including administering vitamins and medications as directed, preparing food, and maintaining a safe and sanitary working area for all animal habitats.
  • Observe animals and report any abnormalities to supervisor and team.
  • Maintain all animal records and equipment.
  • Ensure working environment follows established guidelines and safety procedures.
  • Consistently display consideration, tolerance, cooperation, open communication, and reliability.
  • Support education and general public shows in order to develop speaking skills and stage presence.
  • Proactively engage with guests and respond to guest inquiries.
  • Help prepare educational aspects of shows.
  • Serve as secondary animal person and safety spotter when needed.
  • Act as primary trainer when approved and as directed by leadership.
  • Work with animals on basic behavior and behavioral modification techniques under supervision.
  • Perform primary roles as assigned by area leadership.
  • Engage in and execute all aspects of guest interaction programs.
  • Work with animals using behavioral modification techniques as instructed.
  • Train behavior to completion under minimal supervision.
  • Lead education and general public shows, and guest interaction programs.
  • Be proficient in application of behavioral modification techniques used across the organization. This includes developing and implementing new behavior; training naïve animals with minimum supervision; training behavior to completion without supervision; proactively maintaining conditioned behavior; and forming relationships with animals.
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with Ambassadors, Vendors and our Guests.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What it takes to succeed:
  • Able to complete provided CPR training/certification.
  • At least 2 years of animal care experience.
  • Able to demonstrate strong verbal communication skills and enthusiastically share a passion for the animals and conservation with our guests. Must be comfortable speaking to large groups of people on stage during presentations.
  • Ability 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.
  • 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)
  • Ability 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.
  • Perform cleaning duties; including use of cleaning chemicals.
  • Work a flexible schedule/hours based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts; nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Must be 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

As a 365 day/year operation, candidates must be available to work varying shifts/hours to support year-round operating needs. This may include working opening, mid-day, closing shifts, weekends and holidays.
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.

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