Work at the Zoo
Open since 1927, the Sacramento Zoo is home to more than 120 native, exotic and endangered species and is one of more than 200 accredited institutions of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The zoo is wholly managed by the Sacramento Zoological Society, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and provides an educational and recreational resource to the Sacramento region.
Open positions are listed below. Click on the blue “more” flag for descriptions and instructions on how to apply.
*Disclaimer: Job descriptions have been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of an employee assigned to this job.
Open Positions
REPORTING TO:
Board of Trustees
Located in the Land Park neighborhood of Sacramento, the Sacramento Zoo exhibits over 500 specimens representing 150 species on 14.2 acres in a well-established city park and hosts more than 500,000 visitors annually. Founded in 1927, the zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1975 and is a strong participant in AZA programs.
The 501(c)(3) nonprofit Sacramento Zoological Society (SZS), formed in 1957, assumed financial and daily management of the zoo from the City of Sacramento in July 1997. Since its inception, the Society has served as the fundraising organization for the zoo, providing funds for animal care, education, and conservation programs.
The SZS is governed by a 22-member Board of Trustees. The Board will work with the new Executive Director/CEO to approve a master plan for capital projects and investments. In collaboration with CCS Fundraising, a feasibility study was conducted for a capital campaign totaling $75MM to fund the implementation of the master plan. Phase 1 of the plan includes a $7MM-$10MM campaign to fund the zoo’s Biodiversity Center.
As the zoo celebrates its 90th birthday this year, it’s an exciting time for an incoming Executive Director/CEO. He/she will inherit a committed board, dedicated volunteers and other stakeholders, a strong and experienced staff, an outstanding animal collection, an institution with a storied history and strong good-will from the community. He/she will take on the challenge of finalizing and fulfilling a major master plan that will enhance the visitor experience, operating budget, and attendance.
SCOPE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
With a senior leadership team of eight, a total staff of 120 and a budget of $7MM, the Executive Director/CEO reports to the SZS Board of Trustees and is responsible for the overall management and direction of the zoo. The Executive Director/CEO will provide inspired, forward-thinking, innovative leadership in pursuing the zoo’s mission and taking steps to modernize a traditional zoo. He/she is responsible for overseeing all zoo operations, finalizing and executing the master plan, creating a culture of cooperation and support among the staff, continuing the zoo’s commitment to the education and safety of zoo visitors, and ensuring sustainable and humane operations. He/she will promote the highest quality and integrity in animal care; manage the zoo’s resources – both personnel and fiscal – including the recruitment, professional development, and ongoing evaluation of a talented staff. In addition, the Executive Director/CEO is the primary spokesperson for the zoo and communicates with the City of Sacramento and SZS Board on all matters concerning zoo operations. He/she also serves as primary liaison with the AZA and the zoo’s various publics/stakeholders, including the general public.
Specific responsibilities include the following:
Leadership:
- Create and instill a compelling vision for the future of the Sacramento Zoo, promote a work environment and culture that reflects the zoos values, and continually review and reinforce the mission and vision of the zoo;
- Provide creative, resourceful, and responsible leadership to strategic planning efforts;
- Cultivate and maintain effective relationships with all stakeholders, including the City of Sacramento, the SZS Board of Trustees, employees, donors, volunteers, and community leaders;
- Lead an organizational culture of excellence by setting and maintaining standards for customer service, professionalism, and respect towards a diverse set of constituencies;
- Represent the zoo to the general public and to the professional zoo community in the US;
- Direct planning and implementation of maintenance and capital projects including the master plan; and
- Demonstrate passion and commitment to the zoo’s mission in leadership of zoo staff and volunteers.
External Affairs:
- Serve as the organization’s primary fundraiser, actively cultivate new donor relationships, and oversee fundraising for operating and implementation of the master plan;
- Participate in ballot initiatives when relevant;
- Actively participate in local civic and community activities and other various social events in support of the zoo;
- Seek out and effectively leverage opportunities to position the zoo as an important civic and community entity; and
- Represent the zoo in the media.
Management:
- Effectively engage senior staff in leading and motivating the full time, part-time and volunteer staff, and monitor performance to ensure that all activities and initiatives are properly executed;
- Oversee the preparation of the annual operating budget, and maintain the overall financial integrity of the zoo by monitoring associated operating revenues and expenses, contributions, capital expenditures, and other related financial matters;
- Ensure the proper care, feeding, husbandry, health, and development of the zoo’s collections in accordance with industry standards, best practices, and legal requirements;
- Ensure the highest standards of construction, animal care, and visitor amenities are built and maintained;
- Oversee and ensure the success of programs and initiatives in education, conservation, and animal welfare, as well as activities that enhance the visitor experience;
- Ensure ongoing increases in annual visitor attendance;
Exercise sound judgment in situations not covered by established policies and procedures; - Monitor and manage the contracts with vendors;
- Ensure the zoo’s reaccreditation status with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is continuously maintained;
- Maintain the zoo’s compliance with all state, local, and federally regulated programs.
EXPERIENCE / SKILLS REQUIRED:
The ideal candidate will possess the following:
- Extensive experience in the leadership and management of an accredited zoological park or aquarium, botanical garden, or museum;
- Extensive experience in leadership and management at a nonprofit, or;
- Executive leadership of a commercial visitor venue or entertainment complex.
In addition, the ideal candidate will have the following experience/skills:
- Prior experience working with a Board of Trustees, volunteers, civic and community leaders, the news media, government, and professional associations;
- A proven manager of people, with the ability to create a strong organizational culture while maintaining the principles and practices of personnel management and supervision;
- Proven experience in the preparation and fiscal management of operational and capital budgets as well as strategic and master plans;
- An openness to innovation and “creative disruption;”
- Proven experience developing or overseeing public and education programs based on collections; and
- The ability to engage effectively with donors and support the fundraising efforts of the SZS.
While the Director of Animal Programs will report to the Executive Director/CEO, ideally candidates will possess knowledge of:
- Regulations and standards associated with the management of zoological parks and animal collections; and
- The principles and practices of zoo design and development.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:
- A dynamic, innovative leader and out-of-the-box thinker who can present a vision of the future;
- Goal oriented, deal closer who enjoys engaging donors and supporters;
- Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills and the capability of working effectively with numerous stakeholders;
- Personal initiative with the ability to lead, direct, and motivate;
- Strong verbal and writing skills and the ability to communicate effectively;
- Ability to analyze complex business, human resources, and operating situations and identify solutions;
- Tactful, diplomatic, trusting, and approachable; team-oriented with good listening skills;
- Must demonstrate integrity, positive ethics and high values;
- Advanced business acumen to plan and control capital and operating expenditures and revenue-producing activities;
- Ability to maintain effective working relationships with zoo staff, AZA, and the public; and
- Commitment and passion for the zoo mission.
EDUCATION:
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree or higher preferred.
COMPENSATION:
Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefit package will be offered to the successful candidate. Relocation assistance is also available.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
The Sacramento Zoological Society has exclusively retained the services of DHR International to lead a national search for the Executive Director/CEO.
Phil DeBoer
Senior Associate DHR International
71 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 2700
Chicago, IL 60606
T: 708-450-4003
E: pdeboer@dhrinternational.com
Job Description
This one position is a general full time Animal Keeper at the Sacramento Zoo. Performs all duties entailed in the husbandry and care of an exotic animal collection at an AZA accredited facility across all sections of the Animal Care Department. This position reports to the Director of Animal Care. Daily supervision is provided by Animal Care Supervisors.
This position will train and work within all five of the zoo’s animal sections including carnivores, primates, ungulates, birds and herps. A successful candidate will have a positive attitude, excellent communication and problem solving skills, work independently at a fast pace and have a great understanding of, and passion for captive exotic animal management in an AZA zoological setting. Experience with, and willingness to be involved in AZA Species Survival Programs as well as other AZA programs is highly desired.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities
- On your own or with other keepers perform all day to day duties required in maintaining an assigned section of the zoo’s Animal Care Department
- Work without close supervision. Exercise sound judgment in analyzing emergency situations. Follow all safety guidelines and policies during general duties as well as emergency situations.
- Preparation of animal diets; feeding and watering animals according to a predetermined schedule.
- Cleaning, disinfection and maintenance of animal exhibits, holding areas and zoo grounds.
- Operating trucks, tractors and other machinery as necessary.
- Capture and restraint of animals as necessary for treatment, general husbandry or transport.
- Treatment of sick or injured animals as directed by veterinary staff.
- Maintenance and repair of animal exhibits, grounds, holding areas, shelters and dens.
- Observation and monitoring of animal behavior and physiology.
- Submission of detailed written reports concerning animals and condition of assigned area.
- Provide recommendations concerning diet changes and exhibit modification which would improve breeding potential, visitor experience and general well-being of the animals.
- Conduct tours, giving animal care demonstrations and other oral presentations to zoo visitors, school groups, potential donors, etc.
- Provide supervision, guidance and mentorship of the activities of keeper-aide volunteers and section interns in their tasks as assigned at the zoo.
- Must respond per protocols and training to any various array of emergencies, including, but not limited to animal escapes.
- Perform extensive operant conditioning and training for husbandry and medical purposes.
- Oversee, create, organize and manage physical and behavioral enrichment activities for assigned section per given day.
- Assist in the day’s assigned section with all general operation as needed: area oversight, record keeping, data entry, project oversight, pest control, volunteer oversight, communication with other zoo departments & other zoo professionals, reproduction and introduction activities, and other duties as dictated.
Qualifications (Knowledge Of)
- AZA programs, mission, conservation goals and overall operations.
- Animal biology, nutrition, natural history, behavior and medical health.
- General husbandry practices, animal restraint and capture techniques.
- Animal behavior, operant conditioning, common environmental enrichment, and animal training practices.
- Basic animal first aid and emergency treatment.
- Safe work practices while in proximity of potentially dangerous animals including protected contact procedures.
Abilities
- Make minor repairs and perform general maintenance and light construction utilizing various hand held power tools.
- Understand and follow written and oral instructions and communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
- Be proficient in general computer use including common programs such as Word & Excel.
- Familiarity with animal record systems such as ZIMS, TRACKS or others.
- Make oral presentations to groups.
- Perform general duty labor for extended periods and under adverse weather conditions.
- Lift, carry and push or pull objects weighing up to fifty (50) pounds.
- Armed Response Team experience desired, but not required.
Experience
A minimum of two years paid experience as a zoo keeper in a zoological setting is required.
Education
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in biological sciences (i.e. biology, zoology, and ecology) or related discipline required. Certain levels of experience may be accepted in lieu of education, pending approval of zoo management.
License or Certificate
Possession of a valid driver’s license at the time of appointment is required; loss of the license is cause for discipline. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Submit resume and cover letter to:
Email: saczooanimalcare@gmail.com
State “ANIMAL KEEPER” in the subject line.
Position open until filled.
Job Description
This position is a general full time primary carnivore keeper at the Sacramento Zoo. Performs all duties entailed in the husbandry and care of an exotic animal collection at an AZA accredited facility with a specific focus on the zoo’s mixed carnivore collection. Position will work with a co-primary carnivore keeper in maintaining the carnivore section and its overall day-to-day operations at the zoo. This position reports to the Director of Animal Care. General supervision is provided by the Supervisor of Mammals.
A successful candidate will have a positive attitude, excellent communication and problem solving skills, work independently at a fast pace and have a great understanding of, and passion for captive exotic mammalian management in an AZA zoological setting. Experience with, and willingness to be involved in AZA Species Survival Programs as well as other AZA programs is highly desired.
Position will participate and contribute to any duties and projects as needed to assist the Sacramento Zoo in achieving its overall mission, as well as maintain Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation.
The carnivore section at the Sacramento Zoo at this time includes big cats, otters, red pandas, fox, aardvark, anteater, tamandua.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities
- Along with the co-primary, under direct supervision of the Supervisor of Mammals, manage and participate in the planning, operation, decision-making and day to day activities of the carnivore section.
- Work without close supervision after training. Exercise sound judgment in analyzing emergency situations. Follow all safety guidelines and policies during general duties as well as emergency situations.
- Preparation of animal diets; feeding and watering animals according to a predetermined schedule.
- Cleaning, disinfection, and maintenance of animal exhibits, holding areas and zoo grounds.
- Operating trucks, tractors and other machinery as necessary.
- Capture and restraint of small carnivores and mixed mammal species when necessary for treatment, general husbandry, or shipment.
- Treatment of sick or injured animals as directed by veterinary staff.
- Maintenance and repair of animal exhibits, holding areas, exhibit furniture, etc.
- Observation and monitoring of animal behavior and physiology.
- Submission of detailed written reports concerning animals and condition of assigned area.
- Provide recommendations concerning diet changes and exhibit modifications which would improve breeding potential, visitor experience and general well-being of the animals.
- Conduct tours, give animal care demonstrations and other oral presentations to zoo visitors, school groups, potential donors, etc.
- Supervision, guidance and mentorship of the activities of keeper-aide volunteers and area interns in their tasks as assigned at the zoo.
- Must respond per protocols and training to any various array of emergencies, including, but not limited to animal escapes.
- Adherence and serious focus on dangerous animal protocols and procedures. Includes personal behavior around dangerous animals.
- Perform extensive operant conditioning and training for husbandry and medical purposes.
- Oversee, create, organize and manage physical and behavioral enrichment activities for section per given day.
- Assist carnivore section in general operation as needed: area oversight, record keeping, data entry, project oversight, pest control, volunteer oversight, communication with other zoo professionals, reproduction and introduction activities, and other duties as dictated.
Qualifications (Knowledge Of)
- AZA programs, mission, conservation goals and overall operations.
- Animal biology, nutrition, natural history, big cat and general behavior, and medical health.
- General husbandry practices, animal restraint and capture techniques – species appropriate.
- Operant conditioning, common environmental enrichment, and animal training practices.
- Basic animal first aid and emergency treatment.
- Safe work practices while in proximity of dangerous animals including protected contact procedures.
- Mammalian behavior, physiology and ecology – carnivores, small carnivores and mixed mammals.
Abilities
- Make minor repairs and perform general maintenance and light construction utilizing various hand held power tools.
- Understand and follow written and oral instructions and communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
- Be proficient in general computer use, including common programs such as Word & Excel.
- Familiarity with animal record systems such as ZIMS, TRACKS or others.
- Make oral presentations to groups.
- Perform general duty labor for extended periods and under adverse weather conditions.
- Lift, carry and push or pull objects weighing up to fifty (50) pounds.
- Armed Response Team experience desired, but not required.
Experience
A minimum of three years paid experience as a zookeeper in a zoological setting required. A minimum of one of those three years (or cumulative of one year within the three) must be focused on carnivore husbandry.
Education
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in biological sciences (i.e. biology, zoology, and ecology) or related discipline required. Certain levels of experience may be accepted in lieu of education, pending approval of zoo management.
License or Certificate
Possession of a valid driver’s license at the time of appointment is required; loss of the license is cause for discipline. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Submit resume and cover letter to:
Email: saczooanimalcare@gmail.com
State “CARNIVORE PRIMARY” in the subject line.
Position open until filled.
Zoo Careers
Have you ever thought of working with rare and endangered animals?
Zoos, aquariums and marine parks offer a wonderful opportunity to work with rare and endangered animals. But there are many other organizations that offer the same careers, with a slightly different focus. Rehabilitation groups, wildlife sanctuaries, nature centers, and private animal education facilities are sprouting up around the country, and each offers different experiences for their employees.
For starters, do some research to find out which organizations are in your area. The Internet is a valuable tool in finding many of the private institutions. Call or make an appointment to stop by and ask what careers are available and what kind of experience they require. Most, if not all, animal facilities have some brochure or seminar aimed at people entering the career field. This can provide you with ideas or answers to your questions.
Next, begin to volunteer at the facility of your choice. You want to make sure you’ll enjoy the job as much as you think you will before you head down the career path. Volunteering is often the best way to get your foot in the door. It is a good way to put some animal experience on your resume. Some animal facilities even partner with local schools to allow students to earn credits or community service hours.
Last, but not least, increase your knowledge by taking classes. Although most animal knowledge comes from experience, a solid education always helps. Contact your local university or community college for information on course work geared toward your desired career.
Finally, be dedicated. Research your prospective career, and find as many activities as possible that will assist you in the end goal of finding employment. Working your way into the animal field requires time and patience, but the reward is immeasurable.
Below is a brief sampling of possible jobs and career opportunities many zoos, biological parks and marine parks offer. Even if you’re not interested in a hands-on animal career, all wildlife facilities have a wide variety of other professions available. The bonus is that you will still be working close to animals.
Zookeeper
Daily animal care, including feeding, exhibit cleaning and behavioral observation
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Responsible for the medical diagnosis, care and treatment of the animals
Curator
Oversees the management of the facility, sets protocols and policies, and assists with animal acquisitions
Veterinary Technician
(Animal Health Technician)
Assists the veterinarian with general animal care
Membership Services
Provides customer service, data processing and information for members and visitors
Graphic Designer
Designs artwork for logos, newsletters, flyers, signs, and advertising
Animal Trainer
Trains animals to demonstrate natural behaviors on demand for public programs
Educator
Presents programs to visitors, both on and off zoo grounds
Development and Fundraising
Cultivates community and business contacts to support the zoo
Facility & Grounds
Repairs equipment and maintains the facilities throughout the park
Concessions & Retail
Customer service positions in food and retail departments
Business Manager
Accountant responsible for managing the zoo budget
Horticulturist
Works with plants and landscaping, both inside and outside of animal exhibits
Public Relations & Marketing
Promotes public awareness through advertising and coordinates special events
Do I need to have a college degree?
Although some zookeepers have a two-year degree, most jobs now require a four-year degree in biology, zoology or a related field. This is an extremely competitive field, and education is as important as experience.
Is working with the animals as fun as it looks?
Yes and no. Working with animals is not easy. It takes dedication and responsibility. Most zookeepers work weekends and holidays, as the animals still need care on those days, too. The work is outdoors, so weather can sometimes be an issue. But, the job is never boring, as each day brings new surprises and fulfillment.
What do you like most and least about your job?
Least – Working outside in hot/wet weather and dealing with sick or injured animals.
Most – Knowing the animals at the zoo are well cared for and that we help to educate the public.
What do you get paid per year?
Salaries differ in each region of the country depending upon the size of the institution and the cost of living in the surrounding area. The average yearly salary for entry level animal care staff ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 per year. More experienced staff and managers will have a higher salary. Benefits (medical, dental, sick leave and vacation), are included in most salaries.
What do you do everyday?
Keepers spend most of their mornings preparing diets, feeding and cleaning the animals assigned to them. The afternoons can be spent working on special projects, behavioral observation and afternoon feedings. Trainers and educators spend a large portion of the day preparing for shows, and presenting programs.
Will I get to have direct contact with the animals?
Usually not. The animals on exhibit are not tame. However, for some animals, contact is necessary for maintenance purposes. Trainers and educators work with smaller animals that are often trained and handled for shows and performances. No matter if it is a hedgehog or a tiger, zoo animals are not pets and are not handled as such.
Where can I find job openings?
Most zoos have position posted on their website. The American Association of Zookeepers and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums each have monthly publications that list openings from around the country.
Many zoos and wildlife parks have information packets on job opportunities available at their facilities. There are also associations affiliated with these facilities that can give you information on careers and locations of parks local to your area or state. Below is a brief listing of associations and facilities to contact.
American Association of Zoo Keepers
3601 S.W. 29th Street, Suite 133
Topeka, KS 66614-2054
American Society of Zoologists
Box 2739, Lutheran College
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
8403 Colesville Road Suite 710
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3314
Bureau of Labor Statistics
U.S. Department of Labor
Washington, DC 20212
National Audubon Society
645 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
Washington, DC 20003
National Wildlife Federation
1400 16th Street NW
Washington, DC 20036
National Marine Educators Association
Publication Committee
P.O. box 51215
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
North American Association for Environmental Education
P.O. Box 400
Troy, Ohio 45373
A strong background in zoology or related science background is necessary for most of the jobs that involve working closely with animals. Other jobs like marketing, education or exhibit design might require different backgrounds, so a diverse education is always important.
Contacting your local college or school counselor will help guide you toward an appropriate educational pathway for your desired job. Below is a brief listing of colleges in California that offer Biological/Science degrees and related course work.
California State University & University of CA
Most colleges offer a range of majors in the zoological or biological sciences.
Los Angeles Pierce College
Animal Health Technology Program
6201 Winnetka Ave
Woodland Hills, CA 91371
Moorpark College
Exotic Animal Training and Management
7075 Campus Road
Moorpark, CA 93021
San Diego Mesa College
Animal Health Technology Program
7250 Mesa College Drive
San Diego, CA 92111
Oregon Coast Community College
Associate of Applied Science degree
program in Aquarium Science
www.occc.cc.or.us/aquarium
(541) 574-7130
Jefferson Community College
Animal Management Program
1220 Coffeen Street
Watertown, NY 13601
University Of California, Davis
College of Veterinary Medicine
1 Shields Ave.
Davis, CA 95616
Santa Fe Teaching Zoo
3000 NW 83rd Street
Gainesville, FL 32606
University of West Florida
11000 University Parkway
Pensacola, FL 32514
There are many two year colleges in California and other states that offer Associate of Arts degrees and certificates in zoological/veterinarian/biological sciences or related fields. The Regional Occupational Program, which works with many high schools and offers animal assistant classes, is another resource.
To begin a career working with or caring for animals you should start by volunteering. You can call your local zoo, humane society, veterinary clinic, or wildlife center to find out what help they might need. The internet is a great resource for locating some private sanctuaries.
Volunteering establishes you as a dedicated worker and gives you important job experience for future positions. Many facilities hire from their ranks of volunteers due to their experience and familiarity with the job. This will give you an inside track in a competitive market.
As a volunteer you have the ability to experiment with the jobs you might want to choose as a career. You can determine what job or jobs best suit your interests before you make the long term commitment of becoming an employee.
There are many opportunities for young adults, college students and anyone interested in animals to volunteer at the Sacramento Zoo. Visit the Volunteer page for details.