Zoologist Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a zoologist. Feel free to use our zoologist job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a zoologist.
Who is a Zoologist?
Biological science has several branches amongst which are zoology, plant science, cell biology, and so on. These branches or divisions are however intertwined since they all involve the study of the interaction of living organisms with themselves and their external environment. Thus, zoology is a branch of biological science that deals with the study of animals. It is sometimes called animal biology and is essential for all aspiring biological scientists. Zoology examines and dissects the animals’ behavior; adaptability to different terrain, animal structure and function, and interaction with the environment. The animals’ modes of nutrition and reaction to adverse atmospheric conditions are also covered in zoology. Zoology also covers specific aspects of the animal kingdom such as embryology, classification, evolution, and distribution of both extinct and living species. The great Aristotle is credited with ushering in the study of animals. During his philosophical journey, he viewed animals as living organisms, studied their development and structure, and considered their adaptations to their surrounding ecosystems as well as the functions of the different parts of their body. The study of animals has evolved and moved on to include the examination of the forms of animals, their behavior and ecology, and the relationships or not between different groups or types of animals.
Therefore, a zoologist is a biological scientist that studies animals both in the wild and in captivity. They observe different groups, species, or forms of animals to understand their behavior when calm or wild. Also, a zoologist is focused and intent on knowing how a particular animal or species of animals reacts, relates, survives, and interacts with their immediate environment or ecosystem. Most times, the worst impacts of continuous climate changes and human activities are felt by habitats; it transforms and/or cause damage. Hence, the importance of having zoologists who can try to muster a way out and prevent animal species from extinction. A myriad of zoologists works outdoors where they often travel and collect specimens, gather data, and monitor and manage wildlife populations. In contrast, some zoologists work indoors and conduct experiments, develop reports, and present their findings. Similarly, other zoologists tend to be based in remote locations where they concentrate on examining the relationships between several animals and the biota. Depending on preferences, a zoologist might specialize in studying and swotting amphibians, reptiles, mammals, birds, fossil remains, or parasites. The profession or role of a zoologist needs discipline, focus, determination, steadfastness, commitment, patience, and fearlessness.
Significantly, some zoologists conserve endangered species and habitats while others are known for controlling animals’ pests and diseases. Animal education and welfare as well as drug development and testing are other components of a zoologist’s daily tasks. They distinctively participate in animal research and teaching and strive to improve the health and well-being of livestock as well. When studying varieties of animal species, a zoologist can also be involved in animal management and education. Relatively, some zoologists specialize further by concentrating on the study of a single species.
For example, a zoologist may choose to commit to studying particular species of dogs or birds. Due to the diverse nature of the field, a zoologist might take on curator and keeper positions in some zoological parks. Also, zoologists frequently work in conjunction with veterinarians, zookeepers, wildlife biologists, and marine biologists to adequately manage and care for animal populations. A zoologist is accurately skilled in animal nutrition and husbandry as well as the economic importance of various geniuses and species of animals. They rigorously study the animals’ migration and reproduction and other characteristics to contribute to peer-reviewed research and development in the field.
Information and data from such studies are also used for monitoring and estimating populations, addressing invasive threats and dangers to species, managing and controlling hunting programs, and developing conservation plans. In most countries, the zoologist is involved in drafting regulations to preserve and conserve animals and wildlife. Some zoologists use geographical information systems and global positioning systems to track and trail the movement of animals within and across several habitats. Using modeling software, zoologist projects and predicts future scenarios and occurrences including habitat range changes orchestrated or triggered by climate change. The commitments, efforts, and exertions of a zoologist are crucial for protecting endangered species and wildlife from the adverse effects and pressures of habitat loss, diseases, and predation.
Additionally, the zoologist is responsible for planning animal care needs such as habitat conditions, and feeding schedules, conducting research projects to learn more about different species, and leading a team of experts or professionals to administer daily care to animals. Zoologists use their passion for animals and wildlife to drive research initiatives in aquariums, zoos, wildlife rehabilitation facilities, pharmaceutical firms, and other related climes. They develop hypotheses, conduct experiments, and use their findings to improve animal care in the workplace while working strictly under the specifications of the employer or profession as a whole.
Many zoologists dedicate their careers to studying animal species. The different types of Zoologists include;
Cetologists: They study marine animals such as dolphins, whales, and seals to mention but a few. Also called a marine biologist, a cetologist concentrates on the interactions between animals in saltwater environments such as oceans or tidal flats.
Ornithologists: An ornithologist studies the different species of birds.
Mammalogists: They study mammals such as deer, wolves, humans, giraffes, and chimpanzees.
Paleozoologist: A paleozoologist studies fossil remains to investigate the evolutionary history and theories of animals.
Herpetologists: A herpetologist studies different reptiles and amphibians such as salamanders, alligators, and frogs.
Conservationists: They concentrate on how to manage and protect wildlife amidst climate change and predatory behavior. Their goal is to prevent as many species as possible from extinction.
Animal behaviorist or ethologist: An ethologist studies how animals interact with each other. They observe life-sustaining behavior such as mating, food hunting, and hibernating.
Specialist zoologists: Lastly, these are individuals or professionals that work with one type of animal studying their wellbeing, ecosystem, ecological niche, and interactions with humans, prey, and predators.
Zoologist Job Description
Below are the zoologist job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a zoologist job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
A job description contains basic job-related data and information that is useful to advertise a specific job and attract a pool of talent. The main purpose of a job description is to collate major tasks and duties to advertise a particular job or opening. Job descriptions are drafted and shaped to fit the available role or career. In addition, a job description clarifies what an employee is expected to do if hired. Like other professions, the job description of a zoologist contains career-based roles, tasks, duties, and responsibilities that encompass;
- Studying animals in their natural environment or captivity.
- Identifying, addressing, and monitoring invasive species, predators, and other threats.
- Researching, writing scientific reports and proffering recommendations and solutions.
- Conducting laboratory experiments and field studies.
- Rehabilitating and releasing animals back into their natural habitat or environment.
- Recording, identifying, and monitoring different animal species.
- Using modeling software to predict future scenarios including changes in population numbers and habitats.
- Collecting, storing, and preparing specimens for analysis.
- Managing animal care, nutrition, movement, and enclosure.
- Managing large data and using statistical software and packages for analysis.
- Using geographical information systems and global positioning systems, sonography, terrestrial locomotor activity monitoring systems, video recorders, and other software and equipment to track animals.
- Supervising assistant zoologists, interns, and volunteers.
- Working with other professionals and support staff.
- Staying updated on relevant industry-centered research, legislation, and policy.
- Educating members of the public on animal safety and husbandry.
- Observing animals’ behavior and features.
- Writing papers and articles for presentation and publishing.
- Participating in and promoting conservation efforts.
- Utilizing different approaches and initiatives to ensure animal welfare.
- Analyzing the lifecycle of animals as well as their function with regards to the overall ecosystem in which they are part.
- Acting as a spokesperson or advocate for ecosystem and wildlife protection.
- Interacting and collaborating with advocacy groups, professionals, and scientists to sustain, monitor, and preserve animal populations.
- Make sure data and specimen collection is done in compliance with relevant safety procedures.
- Providing technical expertise and know-how on wildlife survey designs.
- Consulting on and implementing habitat mitigation and remediation measures.
- Consultations on environmental and site assessment as they affect animal life.
- Communicating with government departments, clients, experts, or colleagues on changes to policies.
- Designing budgets for laboratory and fieldwork/teams.
- Participating in meetings with consultants, government agencies, and engineers.
- Evaluating international and national wildlife initiatives.
- Analyzing and researching the influence of human activities on animal life and suggesting remedies when necessary.
- Lecturing in colleges and universities when required.
Qualifications
A zoologist is a form of scientist entrusted with the observation and study of an animal’s origin, lifecycle, and behavior. As animals adjust to changes in environmental conditions, a zoologist plays an essential role in safeguarding endangered species. Specific industry-based qualifications for zoologists include;
Professional organizations, networking, and certifications: Zoologists are encouraged to network through journals and magazines, newsletters, annual conferences, and working groups. This not only boosts growth in the field but administers professional certification for zoologists as well. Networking and professional certification offer business benchmarking data, animal management information, grants, and more. Examples of certifications and professional organizations employers look out for during recruitment are the wildlife society and the association of zoos and aquariums.
Relevant experience: Recruitment agencies prefer candidates with work experience; practical experience gained through volunteer work, internship, assistant zoologist roles, and other related experience whilst in school can suffice. However, pre-entry work is essential due to the enormous competition in the industry as well as experience gotten through job shadowing and other placement.
Education and training: A bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, and any related biological science course is the minimum education requirement. A master’s degree in the fields above is an advantage and desirable for some employers. For research, teaching, or lecturing roles, the zoologists will normally require a Ph.D. Furthermore, verifiable training on the use of relevant laboratory and field software and equipment is mandatory.
Essential Skills
A zoologist often travels great distances to study various animal species in deserts, jungles, or remote locations. Notably, research is an essential and central cog in the zoology profession. Findings, discoveries, and all information from such research need to be shared with an employer, the government, or relevant professional bodies. This requires certain skills and traits that encompass communication, survival, and tact. The presence or lack of these skills can make or mar a zoologist’s growth and career advancement in the field. Thus, every zoologist or aspiring zoologist will need to have, develop, and manifest the following skills;
- Emotional stability to endure long periods with little human contact while working with sick or injured animals.
- Outdoor adaptive skills to comfortably navigate rough terrain in poor weather, swim in cold water, or carry heavy packs or equipment for long distances.
- Observation skills to notice slight changes in an animal’s behavior or appearance.
- Excellent presentation skills for both specialists and non-specialist audiences.
- Research skills and a strong understanding of scientific methods, tools, and other relevant resources.
- Proficient numerical reasoning to interpret statistical findings and input data.
- Information technology skills to record, analyze, and present data and reports.
- Project management skills to work and lead research and field teams.
- Problem-solving skills to tackle difficulties as they arise such as capturing and tagging of animals.
- Organization skills to plan, arrange, and select equipment to conduct research and manage a varied workload.
- Attention to detail to succinctly develop the right care plan for each animal.
How to Become a Zoologist
Zoologists worldwide observe the life-sustaining behavior and actions of animals; they ensure that animals feel comfortable always. The path to becoming a zoologist is most similar to other professions within biological sciences. The steps below should guide an individual to become a zoologist;
Pursue a Bachelor’s degree: At least, a bachelor’s degree is needed to start a career as a zoologist. Thus, consider and enroll for a degree in zoology, animal health or behavior, wildlife conservation, fishery, or captive wildlife care. You will spend a minimum of four years to complete the chosen course.
Consider and cogitate internship and volunteer opportunities to gain work experience: To stand out in this competitive field, you need practical and outstanding work experience. This can be obtained through holiday work placement, internship, or volunteer roles after graduation. Reach out to local zoos, and aquariums that offer volunteer opportunities and/or internships. This will provide you with great networking opportunities and introduce you to the different areas of zoology and the human-animal interaction cycle.
Earn a postgraduate degree in zoology: After graduation and acquiring reasonable work experience, try and earn a postgraduate degree in zoology. Most employers or organizations require a master’s degree or Ph.D. Both degrees are vital especially if you intend to venture into research or lecturing in zoology.
Where to Work
Roles and positions of a zoologist can be found in the following organizations;
- Aquaculture and animal nutrition companies
- Health services and medical research facilities
- Animal and environmental charities
- Zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks and centers
- Scientific centers, museums, and libraries
- Environmental protection agencies
- Pharmaceutical, chemical, and petroleum companies
- Environmental consultancies and conservation agencies
- Government agencies and research institutions
- Universities and research institutes
Zoologist Salary Scale
The salaries for zoologists vary based on the type of employment, level of education completed, and duties required by their specifications. Hence, a zoologist earns an average salary of $62,290 per annum. The estimated highest and lowest salary percentiles are $99,700 and $39,620 respectively.
In the United Kingdom, the starting salary for a zoologist is estimated to be between £18,000- £25,000 annually. Experienced, advanced, and senior zoologists earn an estimated £45,000 per year.
