Partners in Conservation
Learn about the Zoo’s financial commitment to holistic conservation efforts in Central Africa.
Organizational Values
What are the Zoo's organizational values?
Our Mission:
Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.
Our Vision:
To become one of the most impactful wildlife conservation institutions globally.
Our Purpose:
To make a positive impact on people, wildlife, and wild places.
Our Values:
- Integrity | We commit to honesty, trust, and holding ourselves and others accountable.
- Respect | We value the uniqueness and dignity of every individual.
- Engagement | We create inclusive and meaningful connections.
- Collaboration | We communicate openly and honestly and assume positive intent.
Available Positions
What type of paid positions are available?
Here at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, Safari Golf Club, and The Wilds, we have full-time and part-time year-round positions and seasonal positions available in most departments throughout our parks.
How do I get a year-round position with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium?
There are many people like you who would love to combine their passion for animals with a paying job. Turnover in zoos is low and competition is stiff, which makes education and experience very important.
There are many ways to get your foot in the door, such as taking an internship, joining the team in a seasonal role, as well as volunteering and participating in the the Zoo School program through the Delaware Area Career Center.
Application Process
How do I apply?
Visit the Opportunities section of our website to see if there are any openings for which you are qualified. Best of luck in your search!
How often should I apply for seasonal opportunities?
Our openings are most often posted from season to season (winter, spring, summer, and fall), so you will want to return to apply at the start of each calendar season.
Hiring Process
What is the hiring process like?
Once submitted, the department hiring manager will review applications. Once the selection for the position is complete, all applicants who applied will receive communication that the position has been closed and we are no longer selecting for that particular position. The status of your application can be checked within your ICIMS profile.
I've been offered a seasonal position, what's next?
If a seasonal position is offered to you, congratulations! In the following days after you have accepted your new role, a representative will reach out to you with onboarding paperwork. Once all of your onboarding paperwork has been submitted, you will be able to start your new job!
What if I don't recall the name of my seasonal hiring manager?
If you have been offered a position and are unsure of who your hiring manager is, please contact us at 614-645-3400.
Working with Animals
I love animals! How do I get to work with them?
Many people are passionate about animals, and zookeeping sounds like the perfect job. Working with animals can be a dream come true, but it requires hard work, patience, and persistence. To learn more about how to prepare for a career in animal care at any stage of your life, visit this free resource.
How do I get into the Animal Care field?
Focus your education on the science field. A bachelor’s degree in an area such as animal science, zoology, biology, ecology, conservation science, or animal behavior is a minimum requirement for our zookeeper positions. In addition to education, obtain as much hands-on experience as possible through volunteer work, internships, and employment. You may want to explore opportunities at veterinary offices, wildlife centers, humane societies, farms, or stables that will allow you to gain animal husbandry experience and be more competitive when entering the zoological field.
