Zoo Research Coordinator
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Coordinate research projects from proposal to final report
- Support animal welfare by aligning studies with care and enrichment plans
- Prepare and manage research documentation and approvals
- Ensure ethical research practices and compliance with animal care standards
- Build partnerships with universities, conservation groups, and funders
- Manage research schedules around animal routines and staffing needs
- Oversee data collection quality and secure data storage
- Train staff and volunteers on study procedures
- Write progress updates, final reports, and basic summaries for public education use
- Track research outcomes and share findings internally for operational improvements
Top Skills for Success
Project Management
Research Planning
Scientific Writing
Data Management
Research Ethics
Stakeholder Communication
Collaboration
Grant Support
Animal Behavior Observation
Record Keeping
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Research Coordinator
Conservation Program Coordinator
Animal Welfare Coordinator
Behavioral Research Specialist
Transition Opportunities
Research Manager
Director of Conservation
Curator
Zoo Operations Manager
Wildlife Research Scientist
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Grant WritingResearch ComplianceData AnalysisStudy DesignBudget ManagementResearch Reporting
Development SuggestionsBuild a small portfolio of completed projects, such as an enrichment study or visitor impact study, with a clear question, method, results, and recommendations. Take short courses in research ethics, data basics, and grant fundamentals. Ask to co-author internal reports and help with partner communications to strengthen writing and coordination experience.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 45,000 to 60,000
Mid LevelUSD 60,000 to 85,000
Senior LevelUSD 85,000 to 110,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand, with more openings tied to conservation funding, animal welfare expectations, and partnerships with universities. Roles are more common at larger zoos, aquariums, and conservation centers.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited zoosPublic aquariumsWildlife conservation parksSafari parksZoo affiliated foundationsUniversity research labs partnered with zoos
Industry Sectors
Zoos and aquariumsWildlife conservationHigher education researchNonprofit organizationsPublic sector parks and museums
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a one page research portfolio with two to four project summaries and outcomes2
Learn the organization’s research approval process and document templates3
Schedule informational interviews with a zoo veterinarian, curator, and animal care manager to understand research priorities4
Volunteer to coordinate a pilot study and track timelines, risks, and results5
Strengthen writing by producing a quarterly research update for leadership6
Join relevant professional associations and attend a conference to build partnerships7
Practice communicating findings in plain language for education and public audiences