Student Job Shadows

Audience: Students in grades 9-12 and high school graduates
Availability: First Tuesday, October - May
Length: 3 hours (9am to noon)
Advance registration: Required 3 weeks in advance
Cost: $30

Come explore different careers available at Blank Park Zoo!

Are you thinking about working at a zoo someday but not sure what it’s all about or where to start? Have questions for current staff and keepers? Then a job shadow is just for you!

Students will explore various career opportunities at the Zoo, learn about the mission of the Zoo and the importance of our conservation work and spend time working alongside the team of their choice. Additionally they will learn how all these areas work together to create a successful non-profit and fulfill the mission of the Zoo.

Team Choice:

• Accounting Team
• Animal Care Teams - Ambassador Animals, Aquatics, Avian & Reptile, Carnivore & Pinniped, Commissary, Large Mammals, Small Mammals
• Development Team
• Engagement Team (Conservation, Education & Volunteers)
• Facilities Team (Horticulture, Hospitality & Maintenance)
• Guest Operations & Events Team
• Marketing Team
• Veterinary Team

One participant per team - first choice is not guaranteed. Participants will not directly interact with animals during this shadow.

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Job Shadow Requirements & Expectations

Students are asked to arrive at the Zoo 10 minutes prior to their start time. Please note, the Zoo opens at 10 a.m. during Job Shadow season, therefore Zoo Admissions will be closed when you arrive. A representative from our Engagement Department will greet you at Zoo Admissions no more than 10 minutes prior to your start time.

Dress code: Wear weather appropriate clothing (you may be outside in cold weather, snow or rain), attire that can get dirty and for your safety, closed-toed shoes are required. 

When you participate in a job shadow, it is most effective if you engage with zoo staff by asking questions about their jobs. Students should come prepared with three questions to ask their team. Examples of questions could be:

• How did you get into this career?
• What are your favorite parts of your job?
• What about your job do you find challenging?
• How does your job help save wildlife and wild places?

Registration & Cancellations

Registration and prepayment are required. Payment must be submitted to confirm your shadow date. If you are unable to pay the associated fee, scholarships are available. Please email elcarnes@blankparkzoo.org if you are in need of financial assistance.

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All sales are final. If you are unable to attend a scheduled job shadow, please contact us prior to your job shadow to reschedule. No shows will not be allowed to reschedule.

For more information, call Erica at 515-974-2543 or email elcarnes@blankparkzoo.org.