General Animal Care Seasonal Opportunity Submission 2026

Columbus Zoo Family of Parks•Powell, OH

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a seasonal opportunity for individuals interested in future animal care roles. It involves submitting a resume for potential positions on animal care teams. The role may involve working in various areas of the zoo, including specific regions like Congo Expedition, Heart of Africa, and Australia Region, as well as general animal programs and encounters. Responsibilities include the care and handling of animals, maintaining their facilities, preparing diets, observing animal behavior, and delivering educational interpretations to the public. The position also requires assisting with grounds maintenance and public viewing areas.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
New-Hire TB test required.
Valid driver’s license with good driving record required.
Must be outgoing and willing to talk to many different types of people.
Excellent public speaking skills.
Able to perform heavy physical work for extended periods of time.
Able to balance multiple assignments successfully.
Able to work in varied weather conditions (i.e. extreme heat, cold, snow or rain).
Able to work in humid and/or dusty environments.
Able to work with a variety of cleaning chemicals.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Able to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with guests and upholding the Make it G.R.E.A.T. standards.
Able to maintain courteous and helpful behavior.
Able to work in a team and/or individually with minimum supervision.
Subject to Drug Free Workplace Policy.
Subject to BMV check.
Subject to Criminal Background check.

Nice To Haves

One year completed towards a bachelor’s degree preferred.
BS in Zoology or related field preferred.
Prior animal care experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Work in various areas such as Congo Expedition, Heart of Africa, Australia Region, North America/My Barn Region, Asia Quest and Elephants, Shores Region, Animal Programs, Animal Encounters Village, and Stingray Bay.
Care for and handle select animals and maintain their facilities within safety protocols.
Clean animal enclosures, including raking, hosing, sweeping, disinfecting, removing manure, washing windows, and general building cleanup.
Assist in habitat maintenance, such as mowing, weed whipping, pruning, and raking leaves.
Maintain public viewing areas on Zoo grounds and buildings, including picking up litter, sweeping, mopping floors, cleaning tables, benches, restrooms, walkways, and windows.
Operate contact areas under the guidance of keeper staff.
Prepare animal diets and drinks.
Observe animals and report any behavioral changes to Animal Staff and Vets.
Deliver educational interpretation to the public regarding animal behavior, habitat, and conservation issues.
Assist in maintaining records and monitoring the health status of animals.
Rotate time within and outside of assigned region among animal care and landscaping/grounds maintenance, ride and environmental interpretation activities.