Lincoln University Logo

Zoologist

Zoologists study animals and their behaviour in the wild or in captivity, and how they interact with other species and their environments.

This profile is abridged from the CareersNZ website

Visit CareersNZ for the detailed profile

Pay per year

$57k-$142k 

Job opportunities

Average
Due to consistent demand

What you'll do

Zoologists may do some or all of the following:

  • Study animals and their behaviour
  • Study the relationship between animals and their environment
  • Do research into areas such as pest control or conservation
  • Do laboratory work and fieldwork
  • Manage the care of animals in research centres, zoos and aquariums
  • Teach university students 
  • Write reports and scientific articles
  • Give talks to community groups and local authorities
  • Advise local authorities and iwi on how to manage animal species sustainably

Entry requirements

To become a zoologist, you need to have a Bachelor of Science majoring in any of the following subjects:

  • Ecology
  • Zoology
  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Molecular biology

Postgraduate qualifications, such as a Master's degree or PhD, are recommended for those wanting to work in senior research roles. 

For research-based work at the technician level, a bachelor's degree in a related science subject is the minimum entry requirement. Though many skills are learned at university, zoologists continue to develop their laboratory and experimental skills on the job.

For more information about your study options see: Areas of specialisation: Environment

Personal requirements

Zoologists need to be: 

  • Enquiring and observant
  • Practical and accurate
  • Patient and logical
  • Good at problem solving
  • Well organised, with good planning skills
  • Skilled at writing and presenting information
  • Good at research
  • Able to cope with experimenting on live animals

What are the chances of getting a job?

There are limited opportunities for zoologists and roles are mainly within universities or crown research institutes. 

Zoology graduates tend to use their qualification in a variety of applied zoology roles in fields such as teaching, environmental research and pharmaceutical research.

Job opportunities in environmental research are good for zoology graduates due to an increased need to protect the natural environment and a shortage of people with suitable qualifications.

Zoologists can work for:

  • Crown research institutes (CRIs) such as NIWA
  • Government agencies such as the Department of Conservation
  • Consultancies, including those studying environmental impacts of building developments
  • Private companies, including those doing pest control
  • Regional councils
  • Museums
  • Universities
Penny 1920x1080

Student profiles

Check out some of our current students and recent graduates. They're doing great things.

Read their stories

This information is a guide only. Last updated 27 March 2024.