The Phoenix Zoo is seeking teens who embody key characteristics crucial to our mission and values. We are looking for individuals who are responsible and reliable and possess a genuine passion for wildlife and conservation. We value a strong desire to learn and a willingness to try new things, as our dynamic environment encourages continuous growth and exploration. Additionally, we are seeking applicants who are eager to represent the Zoo in a friendly and professional manner, understanding the importance of positive interactions with our guests. Furthermore, we encourage applicants who wish to serve as role models for their peers, embodying the values of responsibility, curiosity and a commitment to wildlife conservation.

This program is open to teens who already have volunteering experience and those who do not. We aim to create a program that represents the diversity of our teen community and encourage all teens to apply. If selected participants require accommodations to be successful in the program, we will make every effort to provide them.

We love animals too!  But we also love education, engaging our guests and helping them understand and appreciate the natural world around them, which is more what you will be doing as a ZooTeen. While ZooTeens do not generally work directly with animals or with zookeepers, ZooTeens will get special access to opportunities which are designed to provide them with behind-the-scenes experiences and knowledge to help them along their future career paths.

ZooTeens must commit to the program for one year and must be able to complete a minimum of one 6-hour volunteer shift a month. Volunteer shifts are available on most Saturdays and Sundays. Participants will have the ability to create their own volunteer schedules through our online volunteer portal. ​

The mandatory program orientation and trainings will take place in August and September 2025 and volunteering shifts will begin in October 2025 and go through May 2026. ​ ​

All ZooTeens will start their volunteer shift with a “Pre-Shift” meeting where we will share expected guest attendance that day, updates on animals/exhibits and other important information about what to expect during their day at the Zoo. ZooTeens will then transition to their assigned locations throughout the Zoo in groups of at least two. ZooTeens will have a lunch break on Zoo grounds and then end their shift with a “Post-Shift” meeting where we will reflect on the day as a group and review any teachable moments.

ZooTeens will receive training to ensure their success in the program. Training will cover essential skills and topics such as public speaking, guest engagement, customer service, conflict resolution, adaptability and knowledge of the Zoo’s history, exhibits, animals and conservation efforts.

The ZooTeens program offers teens the ability to volunteer at the Phoenix Zoo on the weekends when it fits their schedule. ZooTeens focus on engaging and educating guests in a variety of fun and interactive ways. ZooTeens are required to complete a specific number of volunteer hours each year to remain in the program. If you like sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world with others while developing important professional and life skills, this is the program for you!​

The Trailblazers Youth Advisory Council focuses on leadership development and empowers teens to assist in the design, planning and execution of teen programming at the Zoo. Trailblazers meet on set dates each month and the monthly meetings involve collaborative group discussions, leadership and professional development activities and working in teams on the service-learning projects. Trailblazers are also expected to put in some additional time outside of the scheduled meetings. If you like thinking deeply about an issue or task and working with others to solve it, this is the program for you!​

You may apply to both ZooTeens and Trailblazers, however, you may only participate in one program at a time. If you reach the interview process, Phoenix Zoo staff will work with you to identify which program may be a better fit for you.

Youth who are selected to join the ZooTeens program will be required to pay a $50 program fee. The program fee will support the cost of a program shirt, name tag and program activities. Limited scholarships will be available and will be distributed based on individual student need after the selection process.

ZooTeens will have access to supplemental opportunities such as chats with Phoenix Zookeepers, behind the scenes tours and experiences and much more! ZooTeens will also have access to fun social events and regular recognition of service. Additionally, after completing two of their eight required monthly shifts, ZooTeens will receive an annual membership to the Phoenix Zoo. Some of the benefits of a Teen Volunteer membership include free admission for the ZooTeen and up to three guests and a 35% discount at Zoo food venues. A full list of membership benefits and regulations will be provided to all ZooTeens when they receive their membership cards. ZooTeens may also count their time participating in in the program as volunteer service hours.

If you have additional questions about the ZooTeens program, please contact zooteens@phoenixzoo.org.