ZooTeens

Be a part of the conservation of wildlife worldwide!

The Zoo Boise ZooTeen program inspires teens across Idaho to increase and share their knowledge of animals, conservation, and the environment. As a ZooTeen, you’ll focus on educating Zoo Boise guests and will gain experience with teaching, leadership, and public speaking. You’ll also learn about animals and raise awareness about conservation projects supported by the Zoo Boise Conservation Fund.

ZooTeen Duties

As a ZooTeen, you will work to educate Zoo Boise guests while raising awareness and funds for the conservation of wildlife worldwide. ZooTeens provide informal educational presentations for zoo guests, assist in the operation of seasonal exhibits, assist with summer camps for children, and support Zoo Boise’s wildlife conservation mission.

2023-2024 Zooteen Calendar

Fri 12/01/2023: Online application opens

Wed 01/31/2024: Applications close at 5:00PM

LIVE ZooTeen Info Hours for new ZooTeens and parent(s) / guardian(s):
Sat 02/03/24, 3:00 – 4:00PM
Sun 02/04/24, 1:00 – 2:00PM
Sun 02/11/24, 1:00 – 2:00PM
Sat 02/24/24, 3:00 – 4:00PM
Wed 02/28/24, 6:00 – 7:00PM

All Info Hours will be held in-person at Zoo Boise.
[Mandatory – must choose one]

Tues 02/27/2024: Last date for returning ZooTeens to notify us of intent to return

Wed 02/28/2024: Applicant letters of reference due by 5:00PM

Fri 03/01/2024: Applicants will receive invite to interview if all application materials are submitted.

Mon 03/04/24 – Fri 03/15/2024: ZooTeen interviews at the zoo [4:00 – 5:00PM]

Fri 03/29/2024: Notification of acceptance by 5PM

Sat 04/20/2024 or Sun 04/21/2024: Refresher for all returning ZooTeens, 8:30AM – 4:30PM
[Mandatory – must choose one]

Sat 04/27/2024 or Sun 04/28/2024: Orientation for new ZooTeens, 8:30AM – 4:30PM
[Mandatory – must choose one]

⚠️ Negative TB test is due on or before orientation! Keep in mind, TB tests require you to return 48 hours after initial visit.

Sat 05/04/2024 or Sun 05/05/2024: ZooTeen Practice Day for new teens, 9:00AM – 4:30PM
[Mandatory – must choose one]

Sat 06/01/2024: ZooTeen season start date

Mon 09/02/2024: Last day of summer ZooTeen program

Tuition

$125 [non-refundable] tuition fee includes:

1. Daily mentoring and supervision of ZooTeens by skilled Zoo Boise staff members
2. Initial orientation and continuous daily training in:
   • Professionalism & job skills
   • Leadership
   • Public speaking
   • Communication skills
   • Animal biology, wildlife habitats, and ecology
   • Wildlife conservation
   • Career development
3. Program supplies & materials:
   • One Zoo Boise uniform shirt
   • End-of-summer party
   • Volunteer morning events
   • Orientation and training
4. Opportunities for FUN!

The ZooTeen program is generously sponsored by: