The work of many different professionals is required to run a zoo. Jobs working with animals, such as veterinarians and zookeepers, are available at the zoo. Work with people positions, such as event and program coordinators and tour guides, are also included. Professionals in the fields of facilities management, food service, and business management are also important.
The animals are, of course, the main draw of a zoo. This means that when most people think of zoo jobs, animal care positions come to mind first. Veterinarians look after the health of animals and may work for a zoo directly or in a private practice that is contracted by the zoo. Zookeepers and their assistants are in charge of daily animal care, including feeding and ensuring that the animals have everything they require.
Those who enjoy working with people may be interested in a career at the zoo. Tour guides show groups around the zoo, while presenters give demonstrations that may or may not involve zoo animals. Program and event coordinators are experts at managing presentation schedules and planning special events for the general public or specific groups.
A zoo, like any other large facility, requires regular maintenance. This means that zoo jobs include janitorial and maintenance workers, as well as skilled tradespeople like plumbers and electricians. Many zoos also maintain natural habitats for their animals, which necessitates the hiring of landscapers and arborists. The importance of security personnel cannot be overstated.
Workers in the food service and retail industries can also work at the zoo. Many zoos have restaurants and concession stands where cooks, servers, and cashiers are needed. Sales clerks, stock clerks, and cash handlers are all needed in gift shops.
It’s also important to remember that, even if it’s a non-profit organization, a zoo is a business. As a result, the business office offers some of the most plentiful zoo job opportunities. Salespeople, fundraising professionals, or a combination of the two, are responsible for ensuring the zoo’s income, depending on the profit status. Marketing professionals promote and advertise the zoo, and they frequently collaborate with special event staff.
Administrative assistants, receptionists, and management professionals, just like in any other business, are needed to help run a zoo. Accountants and accounting clerks are also responsible for balancing the books, paying bills, and filing tax forms. Human resources professionals are also needed to recruit and hire employees for the numerous zoo job opportunities.