Junior Zookeepers
Experience life at Cosley Zoo through our unique Junior Zookeeper program.
What is the Junior Zookeepers program?
The Junior Zookeepers (JZ) program is for young adults in grades 7-12 that have a strong interest in science and conservation. At its core, it is a trade: Cosley Zoo provides JZs with comprehensive training in animal care, education, and visitor services; diverse opportunities to use that training; and chances to visit other facilities, speak with people in animal and conservation-based careers, and meet other teens with similar interests. In return, the JZs support Cosley Zoo by volunteering for special events, animal care, and educational programs. Aside from being a lot of fun, the Junior Zookeeper program also helps to build life skills, including leadership, responsibility, time management, and teamwork.
What's the commitment?
The Junior Zookeepers program is a year-round commitment that runs from September-August. As a Junior Zookeeper, you can expect to contribute at least 60 hours per year. The program is broken into quarters:
September-November
December-February
March-May
June-August
Junior Zookeepers are required to accumulate at least 12 hours of service during each of the first three quarters (September-May). During the summer quarter (June-August) JZs are required to accumulate at least 24 hours. JZs are also required to attend monthly meetings, held on the second Saturday of each month from 9-11 am.
How do I earn hours?
Hours can be earned by attending the monthly JZ meetings. You may also earn hours volunteering for Zoo events/programs and through animal handling once eligible. During the summer quarter (June-August) Junior Zookeepers meeting the specific requirements may select a half-day shift to work once per week for 10 weeks. This is called Summer Incentives and it's a great opportunity for the JZs to use the training they have received throughout the year.
What Does it Cost?
To help offset the cost of JZ t-shirts, nametags, program materials, staffing, and travel and admission for the JZ day trip, we ask each participant to pay a participation fee. The fee for the 2011/12 year is $95. Do not submit the fee with your application; all accepted JZs will be notified of the fee due date.
Maximum participants: 30
Thirty participants will be accepted into the Junior Zookeeper program. Selection will be based on past involvement at Cosley Zoo, your application, and your interview.
How do I apply?
Download and submit the application: Junior Zookeeper Application 2011-2012 (PDF)
Questions?
Contact the Junior Zookeeper Coordinator:
Karen O'Brien
ph: 630.665.5534
Office hours: Wed-Sat, 8:00 am-4:30 pm
kobrien@wheatonparks.org
Looking for a shorter commitment?
Cosley Zoo has a Summer Teen Volunteer Program. Click here for more information.
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