The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is northeast Indiana’s largest tourist attraction, hosting more than 600,000 guests annually. The Zoo is consistently named one of the nation’s “Top Ten Zoos for Kids” by national media outlets and is a conservation leader, contributing more than $300,000 annually to local, regional and international efforts to protect wild animals and habitats. The Zoo cares for more than 1,600 animals and participates in 63 cooperative species survival plans.
Employment Opportunities
Join the Zoo team! Every employee is an important part of the mission and success of the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. As a member of our team, you’ll be a vital part of our mission of connecting kids and animals, strengthening families, and inspiring people to care.
Together We Are Better
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is proud to be part of a vibrant and diverse community. We value our team members, volunteers, guests, and supporters. We welcome their unique perspectives and experiences. Our strengths lie in these differences. Together, we inspire people to care about nature and one another.
You belong here!
Apply now! Click on the available opportunities below to find out more about the position, requirements, and application process.
Open Auditions on November 9 For Holiday Atmosphere Performers
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is seeking dynamic and playful actors to join our team of Holiday Atmosphere Performers for Wild Zoo Wonderland! These improvisational characters will bring joy and magic to guests by engaging in fun, interactive performances throughout the Zoo. Click here for a full description.
Requirements:
• Strong improvisational skills & a playful spirit.
• Ability to engage & interact with guests of all ages.
• Comfort in character roles that require guest interaction in a public setting.
• Experience in character work, performance, or a related field is a plus.
• Flexible availability during the Wild Zoo Wonderland schedule
• Performers must be at least 16 years of age.
• Performances will take place outdoors in various weather conditions.
• This is a paid performance opportunity & costumes will be provided.
Year-Round Opportunities
Veterinary Technician (Full-Time)
Applications are being accepted for a full-time Veterinary Technician.
Responsibilities: The Veterinary Technician assists the Veterinarians by conducting clinical and laboratory procedures in the vet hospital. This includes caring for animals, assisting in surgery, collecting specimens, manual CBC, fecal analysis, etc. Click here to view a full job description.
Requirements: Graduation from an accredited Veterinary Technology program and valid Indiana Veterinary Technician registration are required. Three years of experience working as a veterinary technician in a zoological setting is preferred.
Benefits: This is a full-time position requiring availability for a 40-hour work week year-round. Full-time benefits include Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, 403b Plan, 403b Matching, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Days Off, Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave as well as optional Dental, Vision, Life, and Pet Insurance Programs. All team members receive Employee Perks such as free zoo admission, friends and family passes, and concessions discounts as well as appreciation and recognition programs and events.
Application Deadline: November 22, 2024
Ride and Vehicle Maintenance Technician (Full-Time)
Applications are being accepted for a full-time Ride and Vehicle Maintenance Technician.
Responsibilities: The Ride and Vehicle Maintenance Technician serves in the zoo’s Maintenance Department. This position assists the Facility Manager in all aspects of the daily, weekly, and yearly maintenance of the rides and vehicles at the zoo. In addition, this position assists with snow removal schedules and maintaining the vehicle equipment while monitoring expenses as well as assisting with other department duties as needed such as general plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and HVAC. Click here for a full job description.
Requirements: High school diploma or GED, three years of ride or vehicle maintenance experience, and ability to be insured and operate zoo vehicles are required. Previous experience operating a forklift, bobcat, and small engines is preferred.
Benefits: This is a full-time position requiring availability for a 40-hour work week year-round. Full-time benefits include Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, 403b Plan, 403b Matching, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Days Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Health & Wellness Days, and Paid Parental Leave as well as optional Dental, Vision, Life, and Pet Insurance Programs. All team members receive Employee Perks such as a free Staff Membership, concessions and retail discounts, development opportunities, and appreciation programs.
Application Deadline: November 22, 2024
Environmental Quality Technician (Full-Time)
Applications are being accepted for a full-time Environmental Quality Technician in the Animal Health and Conservation department.
Responsibilities: The Environmental Quality Technician provides oversight to the zoo’s Environmental Quality Program including conducting field measurements and laboratory procedures for evaluation of animal enclosure features throughout the zoo with a large focus on water quality testing. Click here for a full job description.
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field is required. Three years of experience working in a zoological setting and a background in aquarium water quality testing are preferred.
Benefits: This is a full-time position requiring availability for a 40-hour work week year-round. Full-time benefits include Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, 403b Plan, 403b Matching, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Days Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Health & Wellness Days, and Paid Parental Leave as well as optional Dental, Vision, Life, and Pet Insurance Programs. All team members receive Employee Perks such as a free Staff Membership, concessions and retail discounts, development opportunities, and appreciation programs.
Application Deadline: November 22, 2024
Maintenance Technician (Full-Time)
Applications are being accepted for a full-time Maintenance Technician.
Responsibilities: The Maintenance Technician serves in the zoo’s Maintenance Department. This position assists with technical, general, and preventative maintenance needs for the zoo as needed such as, but not limited to, carpentry, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, rides, fabrication, and vehicles. Other duties will include snow removal, maintaining small engine equipment, and vehicles.
Requirements: High school diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, and ability to be insured and operate zoo vehicles and rides are required. Three years of maintenance experience in three of the following six fields is preferred: carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, automotive, or rides. Previous experience operating a forklift, bobcat, and small engines, such as mowers and snow blowers, is preferred.
Benefits: This is a full-time position requiring availability for a 40-hour work week year-round. Full-time benefits include Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, 403b Plan, 403b Matching, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Days Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Health & Wellness Days, and Paid Parental Leave as well as optional Dental, Vision, Life, and Pet Insurance Programs. All team members receive Employee Perks such as a free Staff Membership, concessions and retail discounts, development opportunities, and appreciation programs.
Application Deadline: November 22, 2024
Animal Care Specialist: Indiana Family Farm (Full-Time)
Applications are being accepted for a full-time Animal Care Specialist in the Indiana Family Farm section. This position is responsible for the daily husbandry of hoofstock, small mammals, and birds.
Responsibilities: The Animal Care Specialist performs work necessary to provide basic daily animal care for zoo animals, ensures appropriate animal wellbeing, and performs husbandry practices such as operant conditioning, enrichment strategy, and assisting with husbandry and enclosure furnishing design. Click here for a full job description.
Requirements: A Bachelor’s Degree in an animal-related field and one year of experience in a zoological setting are preferred. High school diploma or GED is required. Operant conditioning experience is preferred.
Benefits: This is a full-time position requiring availability for a 40-hour work week year-round. Full-time benefits include Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, 403b Plan, 403b Matching, Employee Assistance Program, Paid Days Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Health & Wellness Days, and Paid Parental Leave as well as optional Dental, Vision, Life, and Pet Insurance Programs. All team members receive Employee Perks such as a free Staff Membership, concessions and retail discounts, development opportunities, and appreciation programs.
Application Deadline: November 22, 2024
Temporary Opportunities
Team member perks
- Seasonal or part-time positions, April through December
- 15 to 40 hours per week
- Must be at least 16 years of age
Team Member Perks
- One free meal during each of your workdays in the zoo season
- 50% discount on other zoo concessions during your workdays in the zoo season
- Free fountain drink refills during your workdays in the zoo season
- Guest service and job-specific training
- Learning and development opportunities
- Recognition and appreciation events and programs
- Individual Staff Membership
- One single day digital guest admission pass redeemable during each visit
- Free ride wristband for you and one accompanying guest redeemable during each visit
- Select discounts on guest event admission
- 20% discount on zoo gift shop purchases
- 50% discount on Kids for Nature campers in your immediate family
Operations Associate
Operations Associates provide guests safe and memorable experiences by operating and assisting at zoo rides, as well as ensuring a safe and clean environment by performing housekeeping and cleaning duties throughout the zoo. Previous guest service, hospitality, or retail experience is preferred. Click here to view full job description. Click Here To Apply.
Operations Associate: Bamboo Forest
Bamboo Forest Operations Associates provide guests safe and memorable experiences by focusing on harnessing and general course safety as guests climb, swing, and balance high above the zoo in our two story ropes course. Previous guest service, hospitality, or retail experience is preferred. Click here to view full job description. Click Here To Apply.
Service Systems Associates Seasonal Opportunities
- Seasonal or part-time positions, April through December
- 15 to 40 hours per week
- Must be at least 16 years of age
Food Service Associate: Food Service Associates help concession stands, carts, and picnics deliver quality food and beverages for Zoo guests during their visit. Apply here.
Gift Shop Sales Associate: Gift Shop Sales Associates welcome and assist guests during their visits to the Wild Things Gift Shop, stroller rental, and retail locations inside the Zoo. Apply here.
Employee Perks
Employee Perks
Team Member Perks
- One free meal during each of your workdays in the zoo season
- 50% discount on other zoo concessions during your workdays in the zoo season
- Free fountain drink refills during your workdays in the zoo season
- Guest service and job-specific training
- Learning and development opportunities
- Recognition and appreciation events and programs
- Individual Staff Membership
- One single day digital guest admission pass redeemable during each visit
- Free ride wristband for you and one accompanying guest redeemable during each visit
- Select discounts on guest event admission
- 20% discount on zoo gift shop purchases
- 50% discount on Kids for Nature campers in your immediate family
Additional Year-Round Zoo Member Perks
- Upgraded Membership to fit your household
- Annual team member holiday party
- Development and training opportunities
- Benefits packages for qualifying team members
Externships
Students pursuing degrees in animal health can meet externship requirements at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. The zoo accepts college students throughout the year for externship positions in:
Veterinary Technician Externship
Description:
The purpose of the veterinary technician externship is to introduce veterinary technician students to the specialty of zoo veterinary technology. The extern will assist the veterinarian and technician daily with procedures, treatments, hospital maintenance, etc.
Duties:
- Assist veterinary staff with routine procedures (immobilizations, physical exams, treatments, etc) as well as emergency procedures.
- Assist veterinary technician with lab work (parasitology, urinalysis, in-house blood work, preparing samples for outside laboratories).
- Assist with hospital maintenance (equipment cleaning, sterilization, inventory, etc).
- Care for animals (cleaning and feeding) in hospital holding/quarantine when needed.
- Enter data into MedArks program and file records.
- Dispense medications under supervision of the veterinary technician.
- Assist with necropsies.
- Responsibilities will be dependent on the applicant’s experience and skills.
Requirements:
- Students should be enrolled in an accredited veterinary technology program with a long-term interest in zoo/wildlife medicine. Experience with exotic species is preferred but not required.
- Students should be willing to learn, eager to create and complete projects and have a respect for wild animals. Students should also work well with others. It is preferred that the student have some previous animal experience.
- Applicants must be available to work at least 30 hrs/week (40 hrs/week preferred) and must be able to work a flexible schedule.
- A negative tuberculin test within the past year is required. Current rabies, hepatitis B, and tetanus vaccinations are recommended.
Availability:
Externships are available all year. The largest volume and diversity of clinical procedures occur in the winter months. Externships will last a minimum of 4-6 weeks, depending on the student’s requirements for school.
Compensation:
Externships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Externs will work as volunteers for the duration of their externship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Veterinary Medicine Externship
Description:
Support the zoo’s veterinary department by assisting with animal care, procedures, and hospital maintenance. The externship is designed to introduce the student to the field of zoo/exotic veterinary medicine. The extern will report directly to the zoo’s veterinarian.
Duties:
- Assist veterinary staff with routine procedures (immobilizations, physical exams, treatments, etc) as well as emergency procedures, with emphasis on duties performed by the veterinarian.
- Assist veterinary technicians with hospital and equipment cleaning and maintenance as needed.
- Assist keeper staff with daily care of animals housed at the veterinary hospital or in quarantine as needed.
- Work on other tasks or special projects as needed.
- Responsibilities will be dependent on the applicant’s experience and skills.
Requirements:
- Applicants must be enrolled in Veterinary School.
- Applicants should have a long-term interest in exotic animals, and be experienced and comfortable with dealing with domestic species. Experience with exotic species is preferred, but not required.
- Applicants must be available to work at least 30 hrs/wk (40 hrs/wk preferred) and must be able to work a flexible schedule.
- A negative tuberculin skin test must be performed within one year of the start date.
- Current rabies, hepatitis B, and tetanus vaccinations are recommended.
Availability:
Externships are available all year. The largest volume and diversity of clinical procedures occur in the winter months. Externships will last a minimum of 4-6 weeks, depending on the student’s requirements for school.
Compensation:
Externships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Externs will work as volunteers for the duration of their externship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s school/college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Internships
Students can gain meaningful experience while meeting school requirements. The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo accepts college students and high school seniors for positions available throughout the year:
Media Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Communications Department with all aspects of video and photographic communications and contribute to planning and executing communication projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo Communication Department, which may include:
- Film video and shoot photographs throughout the zoo including animals and guests that can be used for print and social media.
- Assist in the end-to-end process from storyboarding to logistics to shooting to editing and publishing.
- Catalog videos and photos on Zoo Graphic Drive.
- Visually document special events during zoo season.
- Assist Communication, Education and Development staff with programs and events as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in visual arts, communication, or related fields.
- Proficient in the use of Adobe Creative Suite.
- Proficient with social media such as Facebook live, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, & Instagram.
- Must be outgoing, adaptable, and able to plan and carry out a variety of activities with minimal supervision.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Communication interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday, or irregular hours may be required. May through August is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through April. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Communication Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Communication Department with public relations, web site, and social media projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo Communication Department, which may include:
- Review, update and assist in website development increasing user interactions.
- Assist Communication department with preparing content for zoo’s social media channels and blog.
- Assist zoo with social media research.
- Complete special projects to support zoo’s communications program.
- Assist with writing media releases and articles for zoo publications.
- Perform other duties as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in communication, marketing or related fields.
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, internet applications and content management systems.
- Knowledge in website management and development.
- Proficient with social media such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, & Instagram.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Communication interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday, or irregular hours may be required. May through August is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through April. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Zoo Keeping Internship
Description:
The purpose of the zoo keeping internship is to introduce students to the daily care of exotic animals. For more information on zoo keeping as a career, click here.
Duties:
- Daily care and maintenance of animals in the area to which you are assigned; including feeding, cleaning, and all other duties necessary to maintain animal health.
- General maintenance of zoo grounds, which may include exhibit maintenance, weeding, mowing, trash cleanup, restroom maintenance, and other duties necessary to maintain cleanliness and safety within the zoo.
- Interact with zoo visitors as needed to answer their questions.
- Collect data through animal observation and interpret data as needed.
- Learn about the zoo’s animals through books, magazines, journals, discussions with keepers, and personal observation.
Requirements:
- Minimally, applicants must be high school seniors or college students with an interest in wildlife.
- Applicants must have the ability to work with minimal supervision but be able to work well with others on the animal care crew.
- Applicants should be willing to learn, eager to create and complete projects and have a respect for wild animals. It is preferred that the student have some previous animal experience.
- Applicant must possess ability to participate in physically demanding work, including the ability to lift 50 pounds.
- Applicants must able to work a flexible schedule, which may include weekends and holidays.
- Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license.
- A negative tuberculin test is required if working with primates; testing is provided by the zoo. A current tetanus vaccination is recommended for all interns.
Availability:
Zoo keeping interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday or irregular hours may be required. Internships last six to twelve weeks. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Education Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Education Department with programming and ongoing projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo Education Department, which may include:
- On-site and/or outreach program development and presentation
- Development and/or maintenance of education program materials, graphics, and displays
- Providing assistance to zoo volunteers in educational presentations
Duties may vary with season.
Requirements:
- College student who has completed at least one year toward undergraduate degree in education, biology, zoology, environmental science or related field.
- Experience teaching children and youth in a formal or recreational setting.
- Demonstrated interest in zoo education.
- Must be outgoing, adaptable, and able to plan and carry out a variety of activities with minimal supervision.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Education interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday or irregular hours may be required. Internships last six to twelve weeks. May through September is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through April. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete the application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@kidszoo.org
Environmental Quality Internship
Description:
A limited number of Environmental Quality (volunteer) Internships are available at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. The purpose of the Environmental Quality Internship is to introduce students enrolled in bachelor’s level science degrees (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or related fields) to the specialty of Zoo Environmental Quality Analysis. Candidates with diverse backgrounds and an interest in environmental testing are encouraged to apply. The intern will assist the Environmental Quality Technician daily with procedures, testing, analysis and data management of zoonotic environmental samples. The intern will work closely with the Environmental Quality Technician who will serve as mentor. The intern is expected to gain valuable professional skills as they explore their passion for analytical environmental testing.
Goals:
- To provide an educational experience to college level learners in the field of zoo specific environmental quality testing.
- To expose the intern to the zoo environment, regulations, and practices.
- To expose the intern to the maintenance and operation of zoo life support systems.
Duties:
- Assist environmental quality staff with routine environmental testing procedures (water quality, soil testing, air testing etc).
- Assist environmental quality staff with obtaining environmental samples as needed.
- Enter data collected into the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS) and maintain accurate analytical records.
- Assist with routine maintenance, calibration, and cleaning of environmental quality instrumentation.
- Assist with laboratory maintenance such as cleaning organizing, sterilization, and inventory.
- Attend departmental meetings and depending on the candidate’s abilities, may also present during meetings.
- Responsibilities will be dependent on the applicant’s experience and skills. Other duties may be assigned.
Requirements:
- Minimally, applicants must be currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in a science field, with a long-term interest in environmental quality or environmental testing. Candidates enrolled in an accredited program are preferred.
- Preference will be given to candidates with previous analytical experience. Completed course work will be considered acceptable.
- Candidate should be willing to learn, eager to create, proficient at completing projects and work well with others.
- Applicants must be available to complete at least 120 hours within 4-12 weeks.
- A negative tuberculin test within the past year is required. Current rabies, hepatitis B, and tetanus vaccinations are recommended.
Availability:
Internships are available year-round. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Interns are expected to complete at least 120 hours. These hours might be divided in many ways to suit the needs of the intern but must be approved by the FWCZ staff. Interns are expected to work at least 3 hours a day and should complete the internship within 4-12 weeks. For instance, a 4 week internship (30 hrs/week) could be completed during summer months or between semesters while the 12 week internship (10hrs/week) might work well during the semester. It is imperative that you check availability prior to applying.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide the necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete the application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at 260-427-6800 EXT. 302 or volunteer@kidszoo.org
Volunteer Management Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Volunteer Programs Manager and learn all aspects of the volunteer management cycle, as well as gain an understanding of the role volunteers play in a nonprofit.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Volunteer Department, which may include:
- Review, update and assist in daily recordkeeping of volunteer assignments and service hours.
- Assist with daily volunteer activities, providing clear direction and outline of responsibilities for assigned roles, and provide regular evaluation of activities.
- Utilize volunteer management computer software to maintain volunteer records, produce a newsletter, and communicate weekly with all volunteers about upcoming opportunities.
- Orchestrate recruitment, screening, and application process of new volunteers and interns.
- Assist with formal training and in-depth orientation for volunteers.
- Assist in developing new volunteer opportunities by creative brainstorming, exploring ways to further the Zoo’s mission, support a positive guest experience, and collaborate with Zoo staff on support needs.
- Research database information and follow-up with lapsed or inactive volunteers for retention purposes.
- Perform other duties as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in Human Relations, Management, or related fields.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, internet applications and content management systems.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, and careful attention to detail.
- Ability to maintain a calm and friendly attitude in a busy environment.
- Proficient with coordinating Facebook group postings
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
- Previous leadership and/or volunteering experience is a plus.
Benefits:
- Develop experience working on a wide variety of volunteer management projects
- Gain exposure to a fast-paced, collaborative office environment
- Work side-by-side with an experienced Volunteer Programs Manager
- Organize and attend volunteer trainings and meetings
- Unlimited free FWCZ admission for you and one accompanying guest
- 50% discount on Zoo concessions while interning
- 20% discount on Zoo Wild Things Gift Shop purchases
- FWCZ uniform and jacket provided while interning
- Professional recommendation
Availability:
Volunteer Management interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday, or irregular hours may be required. April through October is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through March. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The Zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
260-427-6800, EXT. 302 or volunteer@kidszoo.org
Zoo Capital Project Internship
Description:
Assist Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo Capital Project Department with capital improvement and internal development projects.
Duties:
Assist with various tasks in the Zoo’s Project and Facility Department, which may include:
- Support capital improvement projects by attending design and development meetings, interacting with various vendors and contractors, and monitoring of project health and status.
- Assist in managing the day-to-day activities of projects, including assisting with project responsibilities and schedules.
- Assist with research for new project and improvement ideas.
- Complete special projects to support zoo’s CIP program.
- Capture detailed meeting and notes and minutes when requested.
- Perform other duties as needed.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in architecture, interior design, project management, engineering, or related fields.
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office, SketchUp, and Adobe Photoshop.
- Knowledge in project management processes and methodologies.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Project interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday or irregular hours may be required. May through August is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through April. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
260-427-6800, EXT. 302 or volunteer@kidszoo.org
Fundraising / Event Planning Internship
Description:
Support the zoo’s philanthropic development staff by assisting with donor relations and fundraiser event planning.
Duties:
- Assist with creation, promotion, and delivery of signature fundraiser events and other donor-focused events.
- Assist with development and set up of fundraising activities.
- Assist with writing and donor communication.
- Assist with various design projects as needed.
- Work alongside the development department.
Requirements:
- College student pursuing a degree in public relations, event planning, tourism, communications, hospitality, or other related field.
- Experience planning large or small events for schools or community groups.
- Must be outgoing, adaptable, and able to plan and carry out a variety of activities with minimal supervision.
- Possess a valid driver’s license.
- Available to work a flexible schedule.
Availability:
Fundraising/Event Planning interns will work 20 to 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday or irregular hours may be required. May through August is preferred; shorter internships will be considered for October through April. Duration of the internship is flexible to meet the student’s school requirements.
Compensation:
Internships at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo are unpaid positions. There is no housing or stipend offered by the zoo. Interns will work as volunteers for the duration of their internship. A paid position is not guaranteed at the completion of an internship.
Credit:
The zoo staff is happy to provide necessary documentation for the student’s college credit.
To Apply:
Complete an application online. If you have questions, contact the Volunteer Programs Manager at
Lawrence A. Ackerman Scholarship
The Fort Wayne Zoological Society awards a one-time $2,000 scholarship to a high school senior pursuing a career in the stewardship of animals. Graduating high school seniors in Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, and Whitley counties in Indiana are eligible to apply.
Interested students should contact the zoo at 260-427-6800 or download an application. The annual application deadline is February 1.
The Scholarship was established in 1992 to honor the late Dr. Larry Ackerman, who served as the zoo’s veterinarian for 25 years. Contributions to the fund are always welcome and may be mailed to Ackerman Scholarship Fund, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, In 46808. Contributions are tax deductible.
Statement of Equal Opportunity
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is operated by the Fort Wayne Zoological Society through a cooperative agreement with the City of Fort Wayne’s Department of Parks and Recreation. All employees and volunteers work for the Fort Wayne Zoological Society. The Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer and treats all applicants, employees, and volunteers without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital or veteran status, mental or physical disability that does not preclude performance of essential job duties, or any other status protected by law. The Society will offer all reasonable accommodations required by law to employees and volunteers with known disabilities. The Society supports and promotes diversity in its workforce and on its Board of Directors and strives to foster a work environment of respect and inclusiveness where the diversity and contributions of all applicants, employees, volunteers, and visitors are valued and recognized.
Together We Are Better
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is proud to be part of a vibrant and diverse community. We value our team members, volunteers, guests, and supporters. We welcome their unique perspectives and experiences. Our strengths lie in these differences. Together, we inspire people to care about nature and one another.
You belong here!