Do you want to pursue a Zoo Career?
The zoo industry is full of exciting careers to pursue, such as animal and veterinary care, education, conservation, and research. If you are unsure what path is the right for you, have a look at the BIAZA Careers Guide and at AZA's list of types of zoo jobs.

Photo: Dallas Zoo
What to study?
Depending on the country, there are different education paths you can pursue if you are interested in working in a zoo. Biology, Zoology, Veterinary Science, Animal Behaviour & Welfare are all relevant subjects for a zoo job.
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However, some countries offer very specific courses on the subject. You might be interested in studying one of these if you want to have a zoo specific education.
Aspiring zoo scientist?

Job Vacancies
Zoo Research & Conservation

Animal Welfare Science - Research Assistant, Behavioral Research
Brookfield Zoo (United States)
This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by assisting in analyses of behavioral and animal health data in support of innovations in Animal Welfare. The position contributes to the pillar of Innovations in Science, Education, Training, and Animal Welfare.

Conservation Coordinator, Columbus Center for Wildlife Conservation (CCWC)
Columbus Zoo (United States)
Responsibilities:
Administrative & Operational Support
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Provide direct administrative assistance to conservation staff, including senior personnel, biologists along with other critical team members.
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Perform general office duties: answering phones, managing correspondence, organizing meetings, filing, and ordering supplies.
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Maintain confidentiality and uphold professional standards in all communications.
Data & Records Management
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Organize and input data for conservation departments.
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File and maintain accurate records, including accreditation documentation and departmental files.
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Track and report on conservation budgets, including purchase orders and reconciliations.
Program & Proposal Coordination
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Coordinate research proposal submissions and approvals.
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Support grant-related activities: distribute materials, track budgets, and compile weekly reports.
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Assist with logistics for conservation speakers and events, both virtual and in-person.
Mission-Driven Engagement
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Respond to public inquiries via phone, email, and mail.
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Promote and embody the mission: Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.
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Integrate sustainable practices into daily tasks.

Post-Doctoral Scientist in Community Cat Research
Cincinnati Zoo (United States)
The selected candidate will be immersed in translational research focused on feline reproduction, behavior, wellness, and community-based management strategies. A key responsibility—and the primary deliverable—of this position is leading a systematic review of trap-neuter-return (TNR) literature using PRISMA guidelines. The resulting peer-reviewed publication will serve as a foundational resource to inform future research, identify knowledge gaps, and guide evidence-based best practices in TNR implementation. In addition, the post-doctoral scientist will support several active research studies, including developing non-surgical sterilants, evaluating long-term vaccine immunity, analyzing dietary intake through stable isotope analysis, and advancing evidence-based husbandry practices. The position involves direct interaction with cats, including participation in clinical procedures, behavioral assessments, sample collection, and routine husbandry activities as part of ongoing research studies. This is a highly collaborative position involving close interaction with external research partners and stakeholders in animal welfare, veterinary medicine, conservation biology, and public health..

Associate Project Manager, Conservation
The Maritime Aquarium (United States)
The Department of Conservation and Policy team conducts applied research on the species and habitats of Long Island Sound and supports the development of policy that will improve the health and resiliency of marine and coastal systems. Current projects underway by the department include salt marsh ecology research, marine debris retrieval, and building partnerships to support regional environmental monitoring.

Conservation Project Manager
The Maritime Aquarium (United States)
We are seeking a full-time Conservation Project Manager to join the Department of Conservation and Policy. The Department of Conservation and Policy team conducts applied research on the species and habitats of Long Island Sound and supports the development of policy that will improve the health and resiliency of marine and coastal systems. Current projects underway by the department include salt marsh ecology research, marine debris retrieval, and building partnerships to support regional environmental monitoring.

Program Assistant, Conservation
The Maritime Aquarium (United States)
We are seeking a full-time, entry-level Program Assistant to join the Department of Conservation and Policy at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. The Department of Conservation and Policy team conducts applied scientific research on the species and habitats of Long Island Sound and supports the development of policy that will improve the health and resiliency of marine and coastal systems. Current projects underway by the department include salt marsh ecology research, marine debris retrieval, and building partnerships to support regional environmental monitoring. This will be a new position within the team that will provide administrative support across the department and assist with various elements of programmatic work within the team.

Pacific Pocket Mouse Research Assistant I
San Diego Zoo Widlife Alliance (United States)
The Research Assistant assists with some or all of the following tasks: the gathering and analysis of research data from the laboratory or the field; attending to the needs of animals in managed care, plants, biological samples, and/or community members. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
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Perform a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, animal care, educational, and/or field duties.
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Collect, collate, maintain, process, and/or analyze records relevant to current projects (e.g., biological samples).
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Prepare, arrange, and maintain records for sample and/or wildlife shipments.
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Collect and record data utilizing spreadsheet and database systems.
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Document, file, and maintain records.
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Maintain supply inventories and prepares purchase requisitions.
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Assist with repair and maintain of equipment and supplies.
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Learn and master project or program processes.

Principal Investigator, Coastal Ecosystems
Monterey Bay Aquarium (United States)
With limited oversight, identify, design and conduct novel research in support of Monterey Bay Aquarium's ocean conservation priorities. Lead a portfolio of research projects to inform the management and conservation of nearshore and marine systems in California and the US, including those related to southern sea otter population recovery, kelp forest ecosystems, estuary ecosystems, and marine spatial planning. Lead and co-author scientific research papers in peer-reviewed journals, upholding, and communicating the Aquarium's core values of scientific rigor and integrity both internally and externally. Assess and improve upon research & analysis methodologies, database management and storage protocols, internal and external partners to expand the capacity, impact and reach of USCA's research and Monterey Bay Aquarium's ability to achieve our strategic ocean conservation goals. As needed, serve as the lead subject matter expert and spokesperson for the Aquarium's kelp forest ecosystems research and marine protected area research, and speak to how that research fits into the broader scientific and conservation landscapes. Participate in relevant scientific delegations, advisory boards, and expert panels to inform and support local, State, and Federal governance and ocean conservation initiatives and actions through the application of the best available scientific data. Assist Conservation and Policy teams as needed to provide scientific evidence and support decision making on relevant topics. Perform other duties as required.

Science Fellow: Animal Physiology (project hire)
Walt Disney (United States)
Be part of the dynamic and innovative Science Operations team where we are part of a broader mission to Lead Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Care for animals and the environment, Connect people to nature, and Conserve our natural resources.
As the Science Fellow – Animal Physiology Project Hire, you will assist the Science Operations team at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge® with operational and strategic projects related to animal physiology and welfare. You will collaborate with partners within the Science Operations team and Animal Husbandry teams to complete these science-based projects.
This one-year project hire role, with option to renew for an additional year, will report to the Animal Welfare Science Manager.

Behavioral Research Intern (part-time, paid)
Lincoln Park Zoo (United States)
Lincoln Park Zoo’s Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes offers opportunities for aspiring primatologists to gain valuable experience in a rigorous scientific environment and be part of a long-term program in behavioral primatology. Encouraging and training the next generation of primatologists is a key aspect of our mission and since 2004 we have provided professional-development opportunities to more than 200 early career primatologists from around the world.
Successful applicants will collect observational data on the behavior and space use of Japanese macaques living at Lincoln Park Zoo. All data are collected using ZooMonitor software, an application developed by Lincoln Park Zoo to record animal behavior.
In addition to collecting observational data, interns have professional development opportunities including the chance to participate in the Center’s journal club and attend talks as part of the zoo’s LPZooU Seminar Series.
Every intern must commit to working two full days per week (10AM- 4:00PM, Monday-Thursday) for a minimum of 12 months with the possibility to extend for an additional 12 months.
We will be accepting 2-3 new interns with a proposed start date of August/September 2025.

Research Scientist, Alexander Center for Applied Population Biology
Lincoln Park Zoo (United States)
As a Research Scientist in the Alexander Center, you'll have the opportunity to lead your own projects aligned with the Center’s priorities and collaborate with others on exciting initiatives. You’ll work with the IUCN Conservation Planning Specialist Group and become certified in conducting Population Viability Analyses (PVA). You’ll lead partnerships with external conservation organizations to build high-impact research collaborations. Finally, you’ll have the opportunity to support analysis and publication on a variety of projects with multiple zoo science centers, including the AZA Population Management Center (PMC), a team responsible for the management of ex situ populations, and scientists in our Tanzania Conservation Research Program. These projects include diving into our rich, long-term datasets such as a 24-year demographic study on elephants in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania, a long-term dataset on lions in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, and a 25-year dataset on zoo species management.

Conservation Assistant (Seasonal)
Birmingham Zoo (United States)
The Conservation Assistant will assist the Conservation Manager in maintaining and improving the pollinator gardens that are part of the Zoo’s BEE a Pollinator Hero program. Under the direction of the Conservation Manager, will perform functions to maintain daily and weekly pollinator garden standards around the Birmingham Zoo property to maintain a healthy, viable habitat that sustain naturally occurring native pollinators as well as the Zoo’s honeybee colony.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
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Performs daily routine pollinator garden work such as, watering, planting, transplanting, weeding, mulching, pruning and other activities necessary to maintain and improve health of pollinator habitat on Zoo grounds under direction of the Conservation Manager.
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Keeps walkways and paths clear of debris resulting from garden maintenance within their assigned area.
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Performs inspections of pollinator gardens on a regular basis, and reports any issues with disease, pests or general appearance issues to Conservation Manager.
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Uses hand tools, such as shovels, pruners, handsaws, to complete some tasks.
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Other duties as assigned.

Reintroduction Manager
Tennessee Aquarium (United States)
The Reintroduction Manager supports the mission of the Tennessee Aquarium to connect people with nature and empower them to make informed decisions about water and wildlife. This individual develops and implements science-based reintroduction and translocation programs for aquatic species of conservation concern, primarily in the southeastern United States. They also lead a team of full-time, part-time, and seasonal Reintroduction Biologists and Assistants in providing daily husbandry while ensuring high water quality in recirculating systems for animals such as Lake Sturgeon, Brook Trout, and Laurel Dace. This individual directs fieldwork necessary to assess the status of current or potential reintroduction programs, as well as develop strong working relationships with reintroduction partners inside and outside the Aquarium to advance scientific knowledge of best practices in reintroduction science and reach program goals for Aquarium programs.
Key Responsibilities
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Provide key management and supervision for Conservation Institute staff focused on reintroduction and translocation of aquatic species of conservation concern.
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Lead the Reintroduction team in providing daily husbandry for program animals including feeding, maintaining exceptional water quality, and monitoring animal health.
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Oversee daily operations for the Conservation Institute propagation room.
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Mentor reintroduction team in scientific research design and methodology to support reintroduction research.
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Provide reintroduction team with resources and training on developing resilience in response to compassion fatigue, conservation burnout, and animal loss
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Ensure data entry and welfare assessments are conducted to AZA standards.
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Cultivate and maintain relationships with reintroduction partners, including state and federal agency personnel, university professors, and other non-profit organizations to ensure leadership in southeastern aquatic reintroduction programs.
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Direct fieldwork and other field support for monitoring, fish collection, and animal releases for reintroduction programs.
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Manage hiring and training for TNACI's summer reintroduction assistantship program in coordination with full-time team members.
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Determine budgets and implement purchasing for reintroduction programs, including both grant-funded and internally supported projects.
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Collaborate with grants team and development department to seek funding for new or existing reintroduction programs.
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Develop and deliver outreach programs, both in-classroom and online, promoting TNACI reintroduction biology and southeastern conservation to relevant

San Clemente Island Wildlife Care Research Assistant
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (United States)
The Research Assistant assists with some or all of the following tasks: the gathering and analysis of research data from the laboratory or the field; attending to the needs of animals in managed care, plants, biological samples, and/or community members. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
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Perform a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, animal care, educational, and/or field duties.
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Collect, collate, maintain, process, and/or analyze records relevant to current projects (e.g., biological samples).
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Prepare, arrange, and maintain records for sample and/or wildlife shipments.
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Collect and record data utilizing spreadsheet and database systems.
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Document, file, and maintain records.
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Maintain supply inventories and prepares purchase requisitions.
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Assist with repair and maintain of equipment and supplies.
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Learn and master project or program processes.

Conservation Technician
San Antonio Zoo (United States)
Conservation Technicians perform various tasks related to the handling and care of animals and their environments. This position also requires captive husbandry, fieldwork, technical writing, and problem solving.
As a Conservation Technician, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people in San Antonio. Here, you will make an impact by:
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Observing, evaluating, and reporting animal behavior and condition to a supervisor daily.
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Caring for all live invertebrate feeder cultures.
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Exchanging information with supervisory staff and interns regularly.
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Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures, service areas, and holding facilities.
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Assisting in treating zoo animals by instructions of a supervisor or Zoo Veterinarian.
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Collecting and documenting information from all program species to assist in creating daily, monthly, and annual reports.
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Promoting San Antonio Zoo in their conservation-related material to the visiting public and at outreach events.
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Be willing to travel outside the San Antonio area.
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Driving motor vehicles or operating mechanical equipment as required.
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Adhering to all policies set forth by San Antonio Zoo.
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Consistently exhibiting an attitude of service inside and outside the zoo, showing hospitality to all.
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Be fully committed to the mission of San Antonio Zoo to create awareness that inspires action to care for the wild world we steward and the animals we protect.
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Perform other work-related duties as required and assigned.

Postdoctoral Research Associate
Indianapolis Zoo (United States)
The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our forward-thinking Scientific Research team. This is a rare opportunity to conduct cognitive studies with up to 21 chimpanzees and 12 orangutans in a zoo setting, using voluntary, non-invasive, enrichment-based methods that benefit both animals and our visitors.
The Indianapolis Zoo features state-of-the-art facilities for enriching cognitive studies with great apes. This includes a dedicated Learning Studio with touchscreen equipment visited daily by multiple apes at the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center, and the newly built Harlan-Shriver Families Chimpanzee Cognition Center, which features multiple touchscreen stations, enabling groups of chimpanzees to simultaneously engage in computerized tasks.
As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you'll help to design, manage, and conduct studies on great ape cognition, collaborate with a passionate team of zookeepers and veterinarians, contribute to public education, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. Your work will play a vital role in expanding scientific knowledge while advancing The Indianapolis Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.

Research Technician - Aerial Observer
New England Aquarium (United States)
We are seeking a highly motivated Aerial Observer Research Technician to participate in aerial surveys for whales, dolphins and sea turtles in New England waters. Duties will include serving as an observer on six to ten aerial surveys per month; quality checking data; coordination with other observers and the flight crew; and analysis of vertical photographs for the detection and identification of marine mammal and turtle species. The majority of the office work will involve reviewing photographs for marine species. This is a grant-funded position with at least 12 months of staffing provided; additional service may be afforded only if additional grant funding is secured. Flying schedules will cover dates throughout the year including weekends and holidays. The successful applicant will be required to attend and satisfactorily complete aircraft and marine safety and survival training.
This is a full-time, 1-year, grant-funded position with the possibility for extension. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package. This position is primarily a field work position, requiring some irregular hours and some long days on flight days. Occasional work on weekends and holidays will also be required for fieldwork. The usual hours for non-fieldwork will be Monday - Friday, 9a - 5p with flexibility based on the fieldwork schedule. Non-fieldwork can be conducted remotely.

Science Fellow - Animal Behavior
Disney's Animal Kingdom (United States)
Be part of the dynamic and innovative Science Operations team where we are part of a broader mission to Lead Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Care for animals and the environment, Connect people to nature, and Conserve our natural resources.
As the Science Fellow – Animal Behavior Project Hire, you will assist the Science Operations team at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® and Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Lodge with operational and strategic projects related to animal behavior and welfare. You will collaborate with stakeholders within the Science Operations team and animal husbandry teams to complete these science-based projects.
This one year project hire role will be based at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and will report to the Science Operations Manager.

Vice President, Research, Conservation, and Education
Georgia Aquarium (United States)
The Vice President of Research, Conservation, and Education (VP RCE) will lead teams focused on internal and external research, local and global conservation, and education programs. The incumbent will work with the senior leadership team on developing strategic programming that meets the current and future needs of the Georgia Aquarium. They will work closely with zoological and animal health staff, as well as external researchers and conservation partners to ensure best practices in the areas of research, conservation, and education. The VP RCE will work closely with Development to convey needs and plans for mission work as well as capital projects. The VP RCE will oversee compliance with regulations related to the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). The VP RCE will be responsible for personnel oversight and budget generation and management, and grants management across their portfolio. They will serve as a key spokesperson for issues related to conservation and research for the Aquarium.

Animal Health Lab Technician
Walt Disney (United States)
As the Animal Health Lab Technician, you will provide clinical diagnostic laboratory services to the animal populations at Disney and work to ensure the highest quality of laboratory support. Your technical support will include Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Seas with Nemo & Friends, and TriCircle D Ranch. Daily operation will include partnership with others in the Animal Health (veterinary technician, veterinarian, medical records, pathology, and keeper teams) and Animal Care teams in Animals, Science and Environment (ASE). We are a busy, high energy, team-oriented practice.
This position is a part-time position reporting directly to the Veterinary Practice Manager.

