What are the Qualifications of a Wildlife Educator?

For people who aspire to work around animals in jobs at zoos, national parks, wildlife stations or wildlife conservation groups, becoming a wildlife educator is the obvious goal. The primary work involves educating people of all ages about various aspects of caring for animals and their habitat. An interest in preserving animals and their natural environment is the main qualification to be a wildlife educator, but there are others, and these need to be met before taking steps to become one.

Qualifications to Become a Wildlife Educator

Education requirements – depending on the type of organisation that employs wildlife educators, such as national parks, zoos or government positions, a university degree or a minimum number of university credits may be required in related subjects. Acceptable subjects often include environmental science, biology, veterinary technology, zoology and other related fields of study.

However, there are usually few or no educational requirements for volunteer roles, or for entry-level jobs at non-profit wildlife conservation groups, other than a love of animals and a strong desire to care for them. A background in wildlife education is a plus, but it is not necessary to become a wildlife educator, although hands-on experience with animal husbandry is a major advantage for landing an entry-level position.

Communication skills and the ability to work with children – most wildlife educators work with children and young adults, because children naturally love animals and are always curious to learn about them. Having the patience to work with children, often in a school environment, and the ability to speak in front of groups of people for a few hours, is a definite requirement for becoming an effective wildlife educator.

Comfortable working with animals outdoors – this is a paramount requirement because wildlife educators need to handle and take care of the animals and their environment. This includes maintaining animal hygiene by bathing animals and cleaning cages and designated areas.

For those interested in becoming a wildlife educator, volunteering at a wildlife conservation group to get hands-on experience, or applying for a job at a wildlife centre if you have university-level credits, is a great way to start a career as a wildlife educator.

Want to see how a wildlife educator’s career can start? Read how our founder, Mike, began as a volunteer at Healesville Sanctuary on our About Us page.