Skip to main content
Today's hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)

Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders

Teen Volunteer and Development Program

Three young people in green shirts standing outside

What's Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders? 

The Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders (OWLs) is a program for youth ages 13 to 15 with a passion for animals and conservation. Participants develop skills by volunteering at the zoo, doing hands-on conservation work in the Portland metro area and learning about the zoo and conservation fields. 

Who can be a Wildlife Leader? 

Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders is for any interested teen from the Portland Metro Area between the ages of 13 and 15 on April 12, 2026. Since space is limited, participants will be selected through an application and interview process. There are no fees or background requirements to participate in this program. We’re looking for young people of all kinds who are excited to learn about wildlife, conservation and zoo careers. You don't need to know about these topics in advance.

When does the program begin? 

The summer season lasts for ten weeks, beginning June 14. If selected, each participant and an adult must attend the required orientation on March 29, and trainings on April 12 and May 17. Additional and optional training activities are available over Memorial Day weekend.

Wildlife Leaders are expected to volunteer at least once a week for eight of the ten weeks. Shifts are on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Each shift is six hours long with a lunch break. Participants who meet their hour requirements will be invited to return in the fall, spring and following summer for additional opportunities.

What do Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders do? 

Wildlife Leaders contribute in a variety of ways, primarily leading activities for guests around the zoo. They also participate in activities to learn about zoos, conservation and animal care. Wildlife Leaders are 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.

How does someone become an Oregon Wildlife Leader?

The program has an annual application and interview process, during which we select and onboard approximately 30 teens.

Applications for 2026 have closed. Check back here again to apply for the summer 2027 season. 

For questions or inquiries about Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders, please email [email protected]. 

Looking for summer camps, day camps, and other seasonal educational programs? 

The Oregon Zoo partners with the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) to offer our wildlife wonderland as a venue for seasonal camp programs. Check out OMSI camps for a complete listing and sign-up information.

FAQs

  • When do applications open? What is the process?

    Applications open in January and remain open for approximately three weeks. After applications close, selected applicants are invited to participate in interviews. We strongly encourage teens to ask for feedback following the process to learn and grow. 

  • What are you looking for?

    We are looking for teens ages 13–15 who are excited to work with others and be part of a team. Ideal participants are enthusiastic, eager to learn and interested in sharing information about animals with zoo visitors. 

     

  • Will there be direct animal contact?

    In the first year, there is no direct animal contact as a Wildlife Leader. This policy is in place to support the health, safety, and well-being of the animals. Second-year Wildlife Leaders and beyond can be trained to support the Goat Contact Yard at the Family Farm. We do our best to connect teens with keepers and animal care staff so they can learn more about what this is like.  

     

  • Do I need prior animal experience?

    No prior animal experience is required for this role. We are happy to teach you everything you need to know, if you are eager to learn and participate! 

  • What schedule should I expect?

    Schedules are flexible and based on each teen’s availability. During the summer, participants are expected to complete at least one shift per week, typically scheduled on a weekend day or between Tuesday and Thursday. Teens are welcome to sign up for additional shifts if they are interested. There are also opportunities to participate in special offsite events. 

  • Could this program lead to a job in zoos?

    While this program does not guarantee future employment, it provides valuable exposure to a wide variety of zoo careers. Participants gain transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and public engagement, while building an understanding of how a zoo operates.