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.

2024-2025 ZooTeen Calendar

Sun 12/01/2024: Online application opens

Week of 01/05/2025: Eligible returning ZooTeens will receive email asking if they are able to return for the 2025 season

🚨🚨🚨 Fri 01/31/2025: Applications close at 5PM MST

LIVE ZooTeen Info Hours for new ZooTeens and parent(s) / guardian(s):
*Please complete the online application before attending a ZooTeen Info Hour.
Sun 01/05/2025, 10 – 11AM
Sat 01/11/2025, 4 – 5PM
Sat 01/25/2025, 4 – 5PM
Sun 01/26/2025, 10 – 11AM
Tue 01/28/2025, 6 –  7PM
Wed 02/05/2025, 6 – 7PM
Sat 02/08/2025, 4 – 5PM
Sun 02/09/2025, 10 – 11AM
Sat 02/22/2025, 4 – 5PM
Sun 02/23/2025, 4 – 5PM

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

Starting Fri 02/21/2025: Applicants will receive invite to interview if all application materials are submitted.

Mon 02/24/2025 – Fri 03/07/2025: ZooTeen interviews at the zoo [4 – 5:15PM]

Wed 02/26/2025: Last date for returning ZooTeens to notify us of intent to return

Wed 02/26/2025: Applicant letters of reference due by 5PM MST

Wed 03/26/2025: Notification of acceptance by 5PM

Sun 04/06/2025 or Sat 04/12/2025: Returning ZooTeen Orientation, 12 – 4PM
[Mandatory – must choose one]

Sat 05/03/2025 or Sun 05/04/2025: New ZooTeen orientation, 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.

Sun 05/18/2025 or Sat 05/31/2025: ZooTeen Practice Day for new teens, 9AM – 4:30PM
[Mandatory – must choose one]

Sun 06/01/2025: ZooTeen season start date

Mon 09/01/2025: Last day of summer ZooTeen program, all hours must be completed

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: