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If you’ve Googled “Zoologist job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again—
A few bullet points about observing animals.
A dry list of responsibilities.
And a generic closing line that tells people to “submit their CV.”
The problem?
None of that actually helps you attract a great zoologist.
Because top candidates aren’t just looking for a list of tasks—they’re looking for purpose, clarity, and a team that values what they do.
Unfortunately, most job descriptions online read more like compliance checklists than real invitations to join a mission. They fail to show what the role looks like in action or why it matters.
That’s why we created this guide—to help you write a Zoologist job description that not only informs, but actually inspires the right person to apply.
Before we dive in, if you want to understand the difference between a generic job post and one that actually attracts top-tier talent, we highly recommend you check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ .
But if you’re here to craft a better job post right now—keep reading. Let’s break down what a zoologist actually does and how to describe the role in a way that connects with real candidates.
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What A Zoologist Actually Does - Their Roles
A zoologist is someone who studies animals—not just in labs or textbooks, but often out in the field, observing them in their natural environments.
They might track migration patterns, research animal behavior, help protect endangered species, or work with conservation teams to preserve ecosystems. Some zoologists specialize in a particular type of animal—like reptiles, birds, or marine life—while others take a broader approach.
But here’s the part many job descriptions miss:
Zoologists don’t just study animals—they tell their stories. They gather data, analyze findings, and help governments, researchers, and even the public make smarter decisions about wildlife and conservation.
That means the best zoologists aren’t just science-minded. They’re curious, patient, observant, and able to translate complex research into real-world action. Whether they’re out in the wild or analyzing samples in a lab, they’re driven by a genuine passion for animals and the ecosystems they live in.
So, when you’re hiring a zoologist, you’re not just filling a research role—you’re bringing on someone who could influence conservation policy, lead important studies, and represent your organization to the scientific community and beyond.
Two Great Zoologist Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Version 1: Job Descriiption For Experienced Candidates
📌 Job Title: Wildlife Zoologist Needed to Lead Conservation Research at Cascade Ecology Group (Portland, OR)
🌍 Location: Portland, Oregon (Hybrid — fieldwork + office)
💼 Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary: $72,000–$88,000/year (Based on experience)
📅 Start Date: ASAP
🎥 Watch this before you apply:
[Insert Loom or YouTube link]
Get to know our team and how we approach conservation work.
🌿 Who We Are
Cascade Ecology Group is an environmental research and conservation organization focused on protecting wildlife and restoring habitats across the Pacific Northwest. For over 15 years, we’ve partnered with government agencies, nonprofits, and local communities to lead science-based conservation efforts. Our mission is simple: protect species, preserve ecosystems, and promote a healthier planet—one project at a time.
🐾 About the Role
We’re hiring a wildlife zoologist to lead large-scale species monitoring projects across Oregon and Washington. You’ll plan and execute field studies, analyze animal behavior and habitat trends, and translate that data into real-world conservation strategies. You’ll also mentor junior researchers and collaborate across teams to deliver high-impact reports and recommendations.
🧬 What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead fieldwork focused on native mammals and bird populations
- Monitor species using GPS tracking, camera traps, and acoustic devices
- Collect and analyze behavioral and ecological data
- Publish findings and present at regional conservation forums
- Guide junior field assistants and enforce humane research protocols
- Partner with universities, tribal organizations, and state parks to align conservation strategies
✅ What We’re Looking For
- Degree in Zoology, Wildlife Biology, or related science
- 3+ years of field experience with habitat or population research
- Strong scientific writing and data reporting skills
- Familiarity with GIS software and tracking tech
- Excellent communication and team leadership abilities
- Physically able to conduct fieldwork in remote areas
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (100% covered for employees)
- 401(k) with employer match
- Paid time off: 20 vacation days + 10 paid holidays
- Annual research stipend ($1,200/year)
- Paid conference travel and training programs
- Flexible work-from-home days when not in the field
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At Cascade Ecology Group, you’re not just another scientist—you’re a key voice in shaping conservation decisions that affect thousands of species. You’ll be part of a tight-knit, mission-driven team that values initiative, collaboration, and results. We move fast, communicate openly, and support each other—because we believe meaningful work starts with strong, respectful teams.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to ensure every candidate gets a fair shot.
Click the link below to complete your short evaluation.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
✅ Version 2: Job Descrtiption For Entry-Level or Trainable Candidates
📌 Job Title: Junior Zoologist Wanted at WildRoots Research Center (San Diego, CA)
🌍 Location: San Diego, CA (On-site)
💼 Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary: $42,000–$50,000/year
📅 Start Date: September 2025
🎥 Watch this before you apply:
[Insert Loom or YouTube link]
Meet the team and hear why we care so much about fieldwork, mentorship, and real-world learning.
🌿 Who We Are
WildRoots Research Center is a nonprofit based in San Diego that focuses on field-based research, wildlife education, and ecological awareness. For the past 10 years, we’ve created opportunities for young scientists and nature lovers to get hands-on experience while contributing to meaningful wildlife research across Southern California. Our field teams partner with local schools, zoos, and conservation parks to drive real impact.
🐾 About the Role
This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to break into the field of zoology. You’ll be trained by experienced researchers and take part in a wide range of animal behavior studies, field surveys, and conservation efforts. Whether it’s helping tag lizards, track coyotes, or record nesting patterns—you’ll learn on the job and contribute to work that matters.
🧬 What You’ll Be Doing
- Observe and document animal behavior in structured field sessions
- Support the care of rescued wildlife and native species
- Record and upload environmental data
- Help with tagging and tracking efforts
- Participate in workshops and outdoor research trips
- Learn to use research tools and basic data collection systems
✅ What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or equivalent (degree not required)
- Strong interest in wildlife, field science, or environmental education
- Good note-taking and observation skills
- Comfortable working outdoors and on your feet for long hours
- Open to learning and receptive to feedback
- Bonus: Any volunteer work with animals or nature centers
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Paid training and certification in animal handling
- Health insurance and mental wellness resources
- 15 PTO days + paid holidays
- Career coaching and mentorship from senior researchers
- Field gear and equipment provided
- Yearly team retreats and conservation events
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At WildRoots, we don’t just train you—we grow with you. We believe the best researchers aren’t born, they’re nurtured. This role is ideal for someone who wants to learn by doing, build real-world experience, and contribute to something bigger than themselves. You’ll be part of a fun, grounded, purpose-driven team—and you’ll get the support you need to build a future in conservation.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make the hiring process faster, fairer, and easier for everyone.
Click below to complete your short, skill-based evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Zoologist Job Posts Work
Let’s break down why these two examples attract better candidates compared to the average templated job description you find online.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Descriptive, and Mission-Driven
Instead of just saying “Zoologist,” both posts specify the company, the role’s focus, and the location:
- “Wildlife Zoologist Needed to Lead Conservation Research at Cascade Ecology Group”
- “Junior Zoologist Wanted at WildRoots Research Center”
This helps the right candidates self-select. It signals who the job is for, what kind of work they’ll do, and where it’s happening—right in the title.
✅ 2. The Video Element Adds a Personal, Trust-Building Touch
Adding a video link from the hiring manager or team lead is a small detail with a big impact. It gives candidates a glimpse into the team dynamic, builds trust, and humanizes your brand—especially important for roles in science or research where culture isn’t always front and center.
✅ 3. The “About Us” Section Feels Real and Specific
Instead of boilerplate company blurbs, both job posts offer a clear story about who the organization is, what they care about, and how this role connects to their mission. This emotional context is what makes a job feel like more than just a list of tasks.
✅ 4. The Role Descriptions Go Beyond Tasks—They Show Purpose
Each bullet point under “What You’ll Be Doing” is written in plain English and tied to real-world impact. These aren’t just chores—they’re contributions to something meaningful. That gives the post weight and gets the right people excited.
✅ 5. Qualifications Are Balanced and Inclusive
The experienced post sets expectations without being rigid.
The entry-level version invites curious learners with phrases like:
“Bonus: Any volunteer work with animals or nature centers.”
“We’ll train you. If you’re curious, reliable, and ready to learn—we’ll support you.”
This opens the door for more applicants without sacrificing quality.
✅ 6. The Perks and Benefits Are Transparent—and Separate
Each job post clearly outlines tangible perks (like PTO, insurance, stipends), making the opportunity more appealing while building trust. By separating this from the “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” section, the post stays clean and easy to skim.
✅ 7. The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Sells the Opportunity
This section does what most job posts forget: it pitches the role to the candidate.
It makes it clear what makes this team different, what kind of person thrives there, and how the role supports the applicant’s own growth—not just the company’s goals.
✅ 8. The Hiring Process Is Clear, Respectful, and Modern
No “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” nonsense here.
Instead, both posts outline a fair, transparent process using WorkScreen. That shows candidates that their time will be respected, and that the company values skill over fluff.
Example of a Bad Zoologist Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Let’s look at what a typical, outdated zoologist job post looks like—and why it fails to connect with the right applicants.
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Zoologist
Location: California
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Not disclosed
Job Summary
We are looking for a zoologist to assist in animal studies and ensure data collection accuracy. The ideal candidate will be responsible for conducting research, analyzing animal behavior, and supporting conservation initiatives.
Responsibilities
- Conduct research on animal behavior
- Assist in fieldwork and data entry
- Collaborate with other team members
- Prepare reports and attend meetings
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in zoology or related field
- 2–3 years of experience
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work independently and in teams
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@ecoworks.org by July 30, 2025.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
1. The Title Is Generic and Vague
Just saying “Zoologist” tells the reader nothing about the company, the mission, or what kind of zoologist is needed. Is this fieldwork? Research-heavy? Wildlife-focused? The title doesn’t say.
2. There’s No Personality in the Intro
The summary is dry, impersonal, and doesn’t give the candidate a reason to care. It reads like filler. There’s no mention of the company’s mission, the impact of the work, or who would thrive in the role.
3. No Company Info or Culture
There’s zero context about the organization or what kind of team the candidate would be joining. Without this, applicants can’t tell whether they’d be a cultural fit—or even want to apply.
4. Responsibilities Are Too Broad and Repetitive
The task list could apply to any biology job. There’s no real picture of what a day looks like or how the work contributes to anything meaningful. This makes it easy to ignore—or forget.
5. No Salary Transparency
Omitting compensation is a major red flag to top candidates. It signals that the employer may be inflexible or disorganized—and that wastes everyone’s time.
6. Cold, Dismissive Application Process
Phrases like “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feel lazy and disrespectful. They make the application feel like a black hole rather than a fair, human process.
7. Zero Inspiration or Value
There’s no reason here for a great candidate to choose this role over dozens of others. It doesn’t connect emotionally, doesn’t speak to their values, and doesn’t show why the job matters.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Description Stand Out
If you’ve followed the structure so far, you already have a strong job post. But these advanced touches can take it from good to exceptional—and help you attract thoughtful, high-quality candidates who are serious about the role.
🔐 1. Add a Security / Privacy Notice for Applicants
This builds trust and helps candidates feel safe while applying—especially important when using third-party hiring platforms or asking for sensitive information.
📌 You can include something like this:
“We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, personal financial info, or passwords at any stage of the hiring process. If anyone reaches out pretending to be us and asks for these things, please report it immediately.”
🌴 2. Mention Leave Days, Flex Time, or Time Off
Many job posts focus only on responsibilities—but rest and balance matter, especially for field-based roles like zoology. Candidates appreciate knowing you support time to recharge.
📌 You could say something like:
“Enjoy 20 days of PTO per year, plus 10 paid holidays and flexible comp days during heavy field seasons.”
📈 3. Highlight Training, Certification, or Growth Opportunities
If you offer certifications (like animal handling), mentorship, or promotion paths—say so. Ambitious candidates will pay close attention to this.
📌 Sample line:
“We offer paid training in field safety, VHF tracking, and animal ethics. You’ll also be paired with a senior mentor to support your career growth.”
🎥 4. Include a Loom or YouTube Video
We’ve already added this in the template, but it’s worth reinforcing: a short video from the hiring manager or someone on the team builds immediate trust. It makes your job post feel more human and engaging—and very few companies do this.
📌 You could add a caption like:
“🎥 Watch this 2-minute video to meet the team and hear what it’s like to work in the field with us.”
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
🤝 5. Use Real Employee Testimonials or Glassdoor Links
If you have reviews or testimonials, link to them. Candidates trust peer feedback more than corporate copywriting.
📌 You might say:
“Want to hear what our staff says about working here? Check out our Glassdoor reviews here: [link]”
🧠 6. Remove Corporate Buzzwords
Avoid language like “dynamic self-starter” or “fast-paced environment.” Instead, use plain language and show real expectations. It helps you sound more human and less like you copied the post from a template generator.
Should You Use AI to Write Your Zoologist Job Description?
Lately, a lot of hiring platforms (like Workable or Manatal) offer one-click AI job description generators. It sounds convenient—especially when you’re short on time.
But here’s the truth:
Using AI without your input leads to bland, forgettable job posts that don’t attract the right people.
🚫 Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
If you just type “Write a zoologist job description” into ChatGPT and paste whatever it gives you… you’re going to end up with something like this:
- Generic wording that could apply to any animal role
- Buzzwords instead of real expectations
- A cold, impersonal tone that fails to connect with top-tier candidates
Worst of all?
It makes your company look like you’re not putting in the effort—and high-quality applicants notice.
Your job post is the first impression your candidate gets of your culture, your team, and your mission. If it reads like a cookie-cutter template, it will attract cookie-cutter applicants—or none at all.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI (As a Writing Assistant, Not a Replacement)
AI can still be incredibly helpful—if you give it the right inputs. Think of it like a co-writer, not a creator.
📌 Here’s how to use AI the smart way:
- Start with your raw notes:
- What your company actually does
- The mission of the role
- The tone you want (e.g. warm, human, informal)
- Key responsibilities
- Desired traits (not just credentials)
- Perks and benefits
- What your hiring process looks like
- What your company actually does
- Then give AI a clear, specific prompt:
“Help me write a conversational, culture-first job description for a Junior Zoologist at WildRoots Research Center in San Diego. The role involves assisting with wildlife fieldwork, and the ideal candidate doesn’t need experience—we’ll train them. Our culture is mission-driven, supportive, and hands-on. We offer paid certification, flexible leave, and use WorkScreen for fair hiring. Here are some bullet points I wrote: [Insert your notes here].”
- Ask it to shape your draft—not generate one from scratch.
You can even paste a great job post (like the ones in this guide) and tell AI:
“Make it sound like this one—but for my company and this role.”
That way, AI becomes your writing assistant—not your voice.
🛑 Bottom Line
AI can help polish your writing, fix structure, and clean up language. But it can’t replace your knowledge of your team, your mission, or your expectations. And without those things, your job post won’t connect with the right people.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Zoologist Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already gone through this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like. But you also want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template
📌 Job Title: Zoologist Needed to Join Our Field Research Team
🏢 Company: [Company Name]
🌍 Location: [Location]
💼 Job Type: [Job Type]
💰 Salary: [Insert Range]
📅 Start Date: [Insert Date]
🎥 Watch this video before you apply:
[Insert link to a Loom or YouTube video introducing the team or hiring manager]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we work to protect wildlife and ecosystems through hands-on field research and science-based conservation. Our team combines curiosity, grit, and purpose—studying animals in their natural habitats and helping communities make smarter decisions about the planet.
What the Role Involves
You’ll be part of a field team collecting data, tracking species, and reporting your findings to help guide conservation efforts. Whether you’re hiking through remote areas or analyzing data in the lab, your work will help us protect vulnerable ecosystems.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Observe animal behavior in natural environments
- Assist in tagging, tracking, and monitoring species
- Record and report data using field software
- Collaborate with researchers and community partners
- Participate in workshops and public education sessions
What We’re Looking For
- Degree in Zoology or related science
- (Or) Willingness to learn and get trained in the field
- Strong observation skills
- Comfortable working outdoors and on your feet for long hours
- Clear communication and a collaborative spirit
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
We’re not just hiring another zoologist—we’re building a team that values respect, curiosity, and impact. If you love animals, enjoy hands-on work, and want to contribute to meaningful science, you’ll thrive here.
Perks and Benefits
- Paid time off + holidays
- Health and dental insurance
- Paid training and field certification
- Mentorship and growth opportunities
- Research stipends or conference support (where applicable)
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make hiring fair and skill-based.
Click the link below to complete your short evaluation and show us what you can do.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: Zoologist
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [Location]
Job Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
Salary Range: [Insert range]
🎥 Watch this video before you apply:
[Insert link to a Loom or YouTube video introducing the team or hiring manager]
Job Brief
We are looking for a zoologist to assist in fieldwork, animal monitoring, and research projects that support our conservation programs. The ideal candidate is curious, detail-oriented, and passionate about animal behavior and wildlife protection.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct field research on native species
- Monitor animal populations using tracking tools
- Document behavioral data and update research logs
- Collaborate with scientists and conservation teams
- Assist in preparing research reports and presentations
Requirements
- Degree in Zoology, Biology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Familiarity with fieldwork equipment and data tracking tools
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Comfortable with travel and outdoor work
- Bonus: Prior experience in field-based conservation work
Perks and Benefits
- Health insurance and wellness program
- 15–20 days PTO + paid holidays
- Access to training programs and mentorship
- Research support and gear provided
- Flexible scheduling during non-field periods
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to fairly evaluate candidates based on skill—not just resumes.
To apply, complete the evaluation via the link below.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Now that you’ve created a strong, clear, and human job post, the next step is making sure the right people apply—and that you can spot them quickly.
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
✅ WorkScreen helps you:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applicants—including AI-written ones
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
💡 Bottom line?
If you’re hiring a zoologist—or any role that requires real skill, curiosity, and care—WorkScreen helps you spot the candidates who actually show up ready to contribute.
Ready to make confident, performance-based hiring decisions?
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Zoologist
A zoologist is a scientist who studies animal behavior, physiology, genetics, and ecosystems—often conducting field research or working in laboratories to collect and analyze data. Their work may influence conservation policy, scientific publications, or academic research.
A zookeeper, on the other hand, is responsible for the daily care of animals in captivity—feeding, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring health. While both roles involve a deep connection to animals, zoologists focus on research, while zookeepers focus on animal care and maintenance.
When hiring a zoologist, look for a blend of scientific and soft skills:
- Strong observation and data analysis abilities
- Experience with tracking tools (e.g., GPS, telemetry, GIS software)
- Ability to conduct field research in remote or rugged environments
- Scientific writing and reporting skills
- Curiosity, patience, and attention to detail
- Communication and teamwork skills—especially when presenting findings or collaborating with partners
The average salary for a zoologist in the U.S. ranges from $60,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, specialization, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $45,000, while experienced researchers or those working with government agencies or universities may earn $80,000 or more. Field roles with high travel or risk may also offer stipends or bonuses.
Most zoologists hold a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or a related field, which takes about 4 years. Some roles—especially those in research or academia—may require a master’s or PhD, adding 2 to 6 more years. However, entry-level field positions may be open to candidates with less formal education if they have strong field skills or volunteer experience.
No. While many zoologists conduct fieldwork, others work in laboratories, museums, universities, or even government policy departments. Some roles combine both indoor and outdoor environments. It depends on the focus of the work—field research vs. lab-based analysis or education.
Watch out for candidates who:
- Struggle to explain past fieldwork or projects in detail
- Show little understanding of ethical research practices
- Can’t articulate how they approach data collection or problem-solving
- Focus heavily on credentials but lack field experience or curiosity
- Give overly generic answers—possibly using AI-generated responses
As always, using real-world skill assessments (like those provided by WorkScreen) is one of the best ways to separate high-effort applicants from low-effort ones.
