A Good Idea Wasted - Anonymous employee Houston Zoo Employee Review

3.0
11 May 2010
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I like the fact that this organization puts a lot of resources into its stated missions involving conservation and education about the natural world. Most of the people who work there seem genuinely in love with their work with the animals and committed to the organization's goals. Lots of smart, joyful, talented people there.

Cons

The politics are frightful--asking questions is like walking through a minefield. Many of the people in mid-management whose work does not involve the animals do not seem to even like or be interested in the natural world, which makes me wonder why they work at the zoo. Also they drive us like slaves. Everything must always be faster and faster, longer hours with pressure to clock out early but stay late. Any mistakes are treated with a heavy hand and threats to your job. Double binds are the leadership style, and the rules shift like sand.

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5.0
9 Oct 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Fun job, pretty good pay, and free snacks/tickets to the zoo

Cons

Can be super hot and disorganized with management

4.0
6 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Management does lots of fun things for all employees, working with animals

Cons

Work life balance could be better

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