If you want to know the duties and responsibilities of a zoologist, then you should certainly read this job description guide.
This free job description contains the duties and responsibilities, salary expectations, and essential skills a zoologist should have.
Ideal candidates for this role should possess solid communication skills.
You should also be observant and detail-oriented.
These skills are essential for performing most of a zoologist’s duties.
Some of the duties and responsibilities of a zoologist include monitoring and tracking animals and preparing and presenting reports.
You will also be responsible for taking care of sick animals and ascertaining the reason for the death of any animal.
The minimum academic requirement for becoming a zoologist is a bachelor’s degree.
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What Does a Zoologist Do?
Zoology is a branch or aspect of biology that deals specifically with animals.
Zoologists are scientists who study animals’ history, anatomy, classifications, habitat, origin, and disease.
They are responsible for studying the effect of human activities on animal life.
Also, they are responsible for conducting research and investigation.
These professionals use Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to perform most of their responsibilities.
Such responsibilities include tracking the animals and forecasting the spread of disease.
Zoologists are also responsible for helping mankind learn about domestic and wild animals.
They do this by tracking and monitoring animals and conducting research and experiments.
Those who work in recreational parks assist the public with recreational hunting.
These professionals also work with hydrologists to track water pollution and its effect on fish.
Zoologists are vulnerable to injuries and illnesses, so you must carefully observe all relevant precautionary measures.
Also, most zoologists have a particular area of specialization.
Firstly, they specialize in vertebrates or invertebrates.
Then, they specialize further in other aspects of zoology.
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Read also;
What are the Areas of Specialization in Zoology?
Here are some of the areas of specialization in zoology a zoologist may specialize in:
- Cetologists
- Herpetologists
- Entomologists
- Ichthyologists
- Malacologists
- Mammalogists
- Ornithologists
- Teuthologists
- Soil zoology
What are the Duties and Responsibilities of a Zoologist?
The duties and responsibilities section should be taken seriously in every job description.
This is because it contains the major tasks your employer will expect you to perform.
A good zoologist should be conversant with his or her duties and responsibilities.
Here are the duties and responsibilities of a zoologist usually featured in most job descriptions:
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#1. Preserve Research Specimens
A zoologist is responsible for preserving specimens for the use of experiments.
Before the experiment, it is your responsibility to prepare microscopic slides.
During various experiments, you may also be responsible for analyzing the specimens under a microscope.
#2. Taking Care of Animals
Zoologists and wildlife biologists are also responsible for taking care of animals.
They work with animal doctors to see that the animals kept under their care are in good condition.
In some cases, they are also responsible for administering drugs to the animals.
#3. Monitoring Animals
Zoologists and wildlife biologists are also responsible for regularly observing animals.
You will be responsible for detecting behavioral and emotional changes in animals.
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#4. Preparing Reports
It is the responsibility of a zoologist to create regular reports.
Such reports should contain information obtained from observing and monitoring the behavior and changes of the animals.
Also information relating to research and experiments should be included in the reports.
#5. Identify the cause of the Death of Animals
When an animal dies, zoologists or wildlife biologists are responsible for identifying the cause of death.
This is by dissecting the animal or animals.
Other duties and responsibilities of a zoologist include the following:
- Conduct research.
- Perform presentations
- Setting up equipment for experiments.
- Taking care of sick or injured animals.
What Qualifications Do I Need to Become a Zoologist?
The minimum academic requirement for becoming a zoologist is a bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor’s degree in courses such as zoology, wildlife biology, ecology, animal science, or other related field is preferable.
A bachelor’s degree can only make you eligible for an entry position.
To gain eligibility to take higher positions, you need to have a master’s degree.
A master’s degree is relevant to working as a researcher or a scientist.
To become independent or work in higher positions, a master’s degree will not be enough; you have to further your education to obtain a doctorate.
Also, employers lookout for candidates who are proficient in the use of computer systems and software.
Just like with most occupations, employers seek candidates with some experience.
Such experience can be obtained from undergraduate projects and during an internship.
You may also gain experience by volunteering to work at parks and museums during the holidays.
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What Skills Should a Zoologist Have?
As much as it is important to know your duties and responsibilities as a zoologist, you may not be able to perform well without possessing certain skills.
Employers also expect candidates to possess these skills.
As such, they include some essential skills a zoologist should have in their job description.
Hence, you can agree that this job description of a zoologist should also include skills.
Here are some of the essential skills a zoologist should have:
#1. Communication Skills
A good zoologist should be able to communicate effectively in writing and verbally.
You should know how to relate zoological information to the public.
This still is also relevant for those in the research and academic field.
#2. Interpersonal Skills
No zoologist or wildlife biologist works alone.
They always work as a team; therefore, a good zoologist should possess interpersonal skills.
As one, you should be able to develop good relationships with your colleagues.
#3. Observational Skills
An ideal zoologist must be very observant and detail-oriented.
You must be capable of noticing little changes in animals.
It would be best to be detail-oriented enough to quickly observe changes in an animal’s behavior and appearance.
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#4. Problem-Solving Skills
A zoologist and wildlife biologist is expected to develop solutions to problems associated with animals.
Some of such problems could be a disease or even extinction.
#5. Critical Thinking Skills
To perform all your duties and responsibilities effectively and solve problems, a good zoologist must also be a critical and analytical thinker.
#6. Technical know-how
An ideal applicant for the role of a zoologist must know how to use all necessary zoological equipment.
You should be capable of driving a tractor and using helpful software.
#7. Physical/Emotional Strength and Stamina
Also, zoologists must be capable of working long hours with animals.
You must be strong and fit enough to do your job.
You should also be capable of showing compassion to the animals, especially when they are sick.
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Where Do Zoologists Work?
Some of the typical employers of zoologists include:
- Marine parks
- Aquarium
- Zoological parks
- Research laboratories
- Educational institutions
- Museums
- Publications
- Environmental conservation groups
Vacancies may be placed online via the website of parks and recruitment agencies.
Also, vacancies may be advertised on social media and on newspaper publications.
How Much Does a Zoologist Make?
According to balance careers, zoologists in the United States make an average of $62,290 annually.
Zoologists’ salaries range from $39,620 annually to $99,700 per year.
It is important to note that the figures above are unique to zoologists who work in the United States.
The salary of a zoologist is influenced by geographical location, employer, experience, and qualification.
In countries where the economy is poor, zoologists are likely to receive a poor salary compared to those who work where the economy is better.
Also, zoologists working in bigger organizations receive a better salary.
More experienced and qualified zoologists are also likely to be paid better than their less experienced and/or qualified colleagues.
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What Should I Include in My Zoologist Resume?
A professional zoologist resume should feature any information relevant enough to convince an employer that you qualify for the job.
You should consider including information such as:
- Years of experience
- Area of expertise
- Previous place of work
- Hard skills
- Qualification
- Soft skills
Also, it is important to refer to the above information while answering questions during an interview.
You can use this job description to create a professional zoologist’s resume.
Zoologists Work Environment and Schedule
Zoologists usually work outdoors and may be exposed to different weather conditions.
Those who work in the field may also have long working hours.
Zoologists who work in museums and parks may work based on a shift.
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Zoologist Job Outlook
According to the United States Bureau of Labour Statistics, job opportunities for zoologists and wildlife biologists will increase by 8% through 2026.
This increase will favor those who have a college or university degree.
Conclusion: Zoologist Job Description Guide
Employers are also free to make use of this guide as a template for creating their unique job description for a zoologist
If you have questions to ask concerning what being a zoologist entails, kindly leave them in the comment section.
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