Zoos are a great place to work. Opportunities for employment are quite limited since a lot of animal-related career seekers are keen on working with exotic animals. Zoos typically receive many applications for each post advertised. There is a way to boost your chances of securing one of these sought-after positions by improving your resume through experience and training.

Ways to land a job at the zoo or aquarium

The first step towards securing employment at the zoo is to determine which career path you would prefer to follow. Some of the most sought-after zoo careers are:

• Zookeeper
• Zoo educator
• Zoologist
• Wildlife veterinarian
• Veterinary Assistant

However, there are various management roles as well as administrative and support jobs. By identifying your field of interest earlier, you can choose your classes and internships at college to build your resume and be prepared for the career pathway.

Research thoroughly the career you plan to take on. You may be able to schedule an appointment with an employee who is in the exact job you’re looking for; or, meeting people who work in the area you want to work in could be beneficial. It is also possible to research career opportunities in the zoo industry through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, or in career guides or publications of the animal industry.

How is it working at the zoo or aquarium?

The responsibility ensures a stimulating and fulfilling job, but this field requires more than just a dedication to conservation. It also demands hard work. There are a variety of educational programs to help you pursue a career in the field of zoology.

Zoo and aquarium jobs are not always attractive. The majority of work demands physical strength and the capacity to conduct thorough observations and maintain information that is up-to-date. It requires a particular kind of commitment to give the best care to animals in captivity, which requires constant attention all day, seven days a week, no matter the rain, snow, or rain.

The most effective way to increase your odds of getting a job at the Zoo or Aquarium.

Gain Education

The education level required for a specific position may differ from a two-year bachelor’s degree to a degree that is four years in length. Certain positions require further education at the graduate degree level. Many students interested in careers in zoos will pursue a degree in areas such as biology, zoology, animal behavior, the study of animals, conservation science, or in a similar field.

Most keeper positions don’t require a college degree, but they usually require at least a four-year undergraduate degree. Zoologists typically need a B.S., but M.S. or PhD. are often required. Veterinary schools require students to earn bachelor’s degrees before they can enter veterinary medical training programs. Those who want to become board-certified veterinarians will likely spend an extra year or two after completing their bachelor’s degree.

Do your research.

Utilize the suggestions above to stay on top of things, and understand the jobs available within the field, and the various types of organizations that exist. This means that you have conducted some research. The most up-to-date information on careers at aquariums and zoos, which was written by experts from our membership, is available to answer your questions. The guide offers information and links to assist you in taking your first step toward a job in aquariums and zoos.

Gaining Hands-On Experience

Many zoos offer opportunities for people to get involved with their animal exhibits in various ways. These might include assisting with educational programming; preparing meals for the zoo’s residents; providing veterinary services; working at the zoo during off hours; or maintaining the zoo’s enclosures. Zoos may also offer some temporary or seasonal positions.

There are several options if there isn’t a nearby zoo. You could take part in an internship with wildlife, visit zoos, aquariums, humane societies, animal parks, or animal shelters, or even work as a volunteer.

As a veterinary technician, gaining experience assisting vets with different types of animals is an excellent way to prepare yourself for a variety of careers. However, if you want to specialize in one type of pet, then becoming an equine veterinarian, large-pet veterinarian, or small-pet veterinarian would be a good option. The most important thing is to gain experience by helping out with different types of pets.

Find an opportunity.

Zoos and aquariums are extremely popular, and the competition for positions is usually very high. Along with acquiring the appropriate qualifications, you’ll need to take the initiative in gaining as much experience in the field as you can in order to get your first zoo position. Continuous professional development (CPD) is also crucial and is crucial to your professional growth. This will give you an edge over your competition and will make your company stand out from other applicants.

University and college campuses could receive advance notification of upcoming jobs, so it’s best to subscribe to any lists of job-specific email addresses that your university might offer.

You can also look for jobs online through various websites, including those of the Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria (AZA), which lists zoo jobs nationwide. Websites like Zoo Atlanta, the New York City Zoo, the San Diego Wild Animal Park, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden, and others may list open positions as they become available.

You might want to stop by the HR department at the animal shelter to fill out an employment form and submit a job request. While you’re in the office, make sure to check out the internship and volunteer opportunities. They’re a good way to get into the door. Your school may be able to help arrange them, so ask your advisors and professors if they know anyone who might be interested.

Stay proactive

Aquariums and zoos are extremely popular, and the competition for positions is usually very high. Along with acquiring relevant qualifications, you’ll need to make an effort to gain as much experience in the field as you can to land your first zoo position. CPD, or Continuous Professional Development (CPD), is also crucial and vital to your development as a professional. CPD will give you an edge over your competition and allow you to stand out from other applicants.

Being proactive could also mean having the interpersonal abilities to contact prospective employers for questions, inquire about their needs, and learn what they could be looking for.

CONCLUSION

Despite the challenges that come with working in zoos and aquariums, it can be said that it is rewarding knowing that you’re contributing to the protection of threatened species. The best chance of being hired is by enhancing your resume to an expert level. The company has a skilled group of resume specialists that can assist you with designing an impressive resume to impress the hiring manager at the zoo or aquarium!