Please note that all volunteers must be at least 14 years old. Teen applicants must submit a signed volunteer application as well as two letters of recommendation from non-related adults and a copy of their latest report cards. Incomplete applications will be returned.
Junior Zoo Apprentice Program
The Zoo offers a unique apprentice program specifically for deserving high school students. The
Junior Zoo Apprentice Program (JZAP) is a competitive, work-based, four-year learning program. JZAP is only for students age 14-18.
High School Ambassador Internship
The High School Ambassador Internship is designed to give high school students in their senior or junior year practical experience in environmental education and the opportunity to gain a broad background of the Zoo community and how it operates. Interns will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the Zoo’s everyday operations while providing an educational experience to our guests.
Click here for more information.
Deadline to apply for the 2010 – 2011 school year is March 1, 2011.
Summer Camp Counselor Assistants
Join our summer camp programs as we take "trips" into the Zoo to learn about the animal topic of the day, assist in animal lessons in the classroom and animal crafts.
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and have experience working with children which must be evidenced in at least one of the letters of recommendation. Preference is given to applicants with camp experience.
Junior Ambassador Program
The Junior Ambassador program is now closed for the summer. Applications are now being accepted for entry into the program in the fall.
This opportunity is for highly independent, outgoing, high school aged students that enjoy interacting with guests and have a passion for animals and conservation. Junior Ambassadors lead organized activities and informal conversations to share the Zoo's mission of conservation with our guests. Volunteers commit to two 8 hour shifts per month during the school year, and one 8 hour shift per week in the summer. This is a year-round program, although teens may volunteer for the summer only if they commit to a total of 80 hours of service.
Click here for more information.
Interested in finding out more? Email
volunteer@phillyzoo.org or call 215-243-5200.