Zoo Careers 101

Zoo Careers 101: an introduction to how zoos work

Zoo Careers 101: an introduction to how zoos work

Lots of people have dreamed of working with animals and spending their days where they can see elephants, sloths and red pandas living their best lives. The truth is it takes a ton of people from a variety of backgrounds to make a zoo successful. With Zoo Careers 101, aspiring zoo professionals will spend two whole days learning from current zoo professionals from Education, Animal Care, Veterinary Medicine and Zoo Operations! From front of house and behind the scenes, participants will learn about exhibit design, animal care/health and more. Boxed lunch is also provided each day of the program. Capacity for this popular program is limited to 20 participants aged 13-17.

Register Here

Dates & Pricing

Dates: November 6th-7th

Times: 8:30 am - 4:00 pm

Capacity: 20

Ages: 13-17

Price: $250.00 (includes both days of programming and lunch both days)

Register Here

Zoo Careers 101 FAQs
Where is pick up/drop off for this program?

Registrants will receive detailed information, including a map directing them to the designated pick-up and drop-off location. This is NOT the main entrance to the zoo. Pick-up and drop-off will be facilitated at Security Gate 5, near the Victorian Rose Garden. Late arrivals and pick-ups cannot be accommodated.

Can we bring snacks?

Yes! Each participant should bring snacks and a water bottle with them. Keep in mind that refrigeration will not be available.

What if my participant has additional dietary restrictions?

Participants with specialized diets are welcome to bring additional food/snacks to supplement the provided meals. Keep in mind that refrigeration will not be available.

Will participants get to touch animals?

Participants will likely get closer to animals than general zoo visitors. With the evolving pandemic, guarantees cannot be made about how frequent or which animals?.

Will participants go behind the scenes?

Yes! Participants visit various behind the scenes areas including but not limited to animal exhibits, the John J. Palumbo Veterinary Hospital, the Commissary and more.

Will there be hands on activities?

Yes! Participants will participate in a lab program with our Veterinary Care team, prepare enrichment for animals with keepers and more.

 Are masks required?

Unvaccinated participants will be required to wear a mask while indoors. All staff and participants, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a mask while visiting the Faces of the Rainforest exhibit, behind the scenes animal areas and when handling animal diets/enrichment.  Please note these policies are subject to change.  Any changes will be communicated to participants through email.

Is this program wheelchair accessible?

While all public spaces at the Zoo are wheelchair accessible, most behind-the-scenes areas are not. Please contact us immediately if you have any concerns about accessibility.

Discover more Educational Programs