Wildlife Leaders

Please note: Applications are closed for the summer 2024 season. Check back here in early 2025 for new opportunities.

Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders is a program for teens ages 13 to 15 with a passion for animals and conservation.

What will Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders do?

Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders will interact with guests in many ways, answering questions and engaging in activities around the zoo. Each day, they’ll have opportunities to learn about zoos, conservation and animal care. Participants will be expected to use their growing knowledge to support the zoo’s mission to connect our community to wildlife to create a better future for all.

Engaging with guests, paired with daily learning opportunities, will help Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders build career skills while providing a well-rounded understanding of everything that happens at the Oregon Zoo.

Note: Participants will not handle animals or work in behind-the-scenes animal areas

Who can be an Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leader?

Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders is for any interested teen between the ages of 13 and 15 from the Portland Metro area. Space is limited, so participants will be selected through an application and interview process. The program is free, and no special knowledge is needed. We’re looking for young people of all kinds who are excited to learn about wildlife, conservation, and zoo careers!

Application process

Applications are closed for the summer 2024 season. Check back here in early 2025 for new opportunities.

For questions or inquiries about Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders, please email education@oregonzoo.org