About
The Zoo Corps program prepares teens to have inspiring and meaningful interactions with Zoo guests. Training and continuing professional development will prepare Zoo Corps members to facilitate hands-on activities that explore science concepts, environmental stewardship, humane education, conservation concepts and animal information. Zoo Corps members will have opportunities to participate in one-of-a-kind experiences and personal and professional development.
Experiences
- Guest Facing: Day-to-day youth participants, with the support of DZS staff, engage with guests about DZS conservation work and present activities on science concepts that allow guests to ask their own questions or increase their observation skills of animals at the Zoo.
- Leadership and Professional Development: These experiences are in addition to guest engagement shifts.
Some examples could include:
- Youth Conference
- Participation in a Youth Council (Managing and Facilitating Social Programming for Teen Participants)
- Fieldwork experiences
- Off-Site Educational Field Trips
- Onsite Behind the Scenes Experiences
- Volunteer Appreciation Celebrations Geared Specifically for Teens
- Professional Development Workshops (Resume Writing, STEM Career Exploration etc.)
Year-Round Program Requirements:
- Youth aged 14-17 years old
Applicants must be 14 by June 1st - Access to reliable transportation to and from the Detroit Zoo
- Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
- Eagerness and willingness to engage with guests of all ages
- Complete:
- 60 Hours of service from June-August
The Following Shifts from September-December- 1 Zoo Boo or Run Wild
- 1 Wild Lights
- 1 Additional Shift or Party of your Choice
- The Following Shifts from January-May4 Shifts of Your Choice
- Attend one of the following mandatory virtual meetings
- Wednesday, May 6th from 6-7 p.m.
- Monday, May 18th from 6-7 p.m.
- Saturday, June 6th from 10-11 a.m.
- Sunday, June 14th from 1-2p.m.
- Attend one of the following mandatory virtual meetings
- 60 Hours of service from June-August
- Attend the following mandatory training dates
- Monday, June 22nd-Friday June 26th from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. or
- Monday, July 6th-Friday, July 10th from 9 a.m.-4p.m.
- Training dates count toward hour minimums
- Attendance for the entire week Monday-Friday is required. Week of training will be assigned based on teen availability.
- Complete and submit required application and documentation
- Parent and teen will participate in a phone or virtual interview
Applications close Friday, May 29th 2026
Summer Only Program Requirements:
- Youth aged 14-17 years old
Applicants must be 14 by June 1st - Access to reliable transportation to and from the Detroit Zoo
- Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
- Eagerness and willingness to engage with guests of all ages
- Complete:
- 60 Hours of service from June-August
- Attend one of the following mandatory virtual meetings:
- Wednesday, May 6th from 6-7 p.m.
- Monday, May 18th from 6-7 p.m.
- Saturday, June 6th from 10-11 a.m.
- Sunday, June 14th from 1-2p.m.
- Attend the mandatory following training dates:
- Monday, June 22nd-Friday June 26th from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. or
- Monday, July 6th-Friday, July 10th from 9 a.m.-4p.m.
- Training dates count toward hour minimums
- Attendance for the entire week Monday-Friday is required. Week of training will be assigned based on teen availability.
- Complete and submit required application and documentation
- Parent and teen will participate in a phone or virtual interview
Applications Close Friday, May 29th 2026
Questions or concerns?
If you have any questions about the Zoo Corps program, please reach out to the education department at [email protected]