Opportunities

We rely on Zoo Crew members to provide outstanding customer service to all Zoo guests and perform the following duties:

My Big Backyard

Help the Zookeeper feed the animals, monitor the animals' behavior around Zoo visitors and answer visitors' questions.

African Rift Valley

You'll do anything from interpreting at artifact carts to assisting Zookeepers with Safari Trail Tours.

Summer Camp

Spend your summer assisting our camp counselors! You will help us with the daily routine of running our camps and gain valuable experience working with children and animals.

Face Painting

Experience the pleasure of bringing a smile to someone's face by painting animal designs on the faces, arms and hands of visitors. All face-painting materials are provided, and donations to the Zoo Crew Program are accepted from visitors for this service.

Button Making & Selling

Use a button-making machine to make animal buttons and sell them to visitors. This is a good way to practice your math and communication skills while providing the public with a Cheyenne Mountain Zoo souvenir.

Tram Assistant

Help the tram driver by taking tickets, stamping hands and monitoring visitors for safety.

Administrative Assistant

Assist the Zoo Crew manager and supervisors in a variety of administrative tasks.

Special Events

Become an integral part of special events such as Teddy Bear Days, Boo at the Zoo, Winter WildLand and other fun days at the Zoo. Duties may include setup, crafts, storytelling, staffing, registration and cleanup.

Zoo Projects

Help the Zoo enhance each visitor's experience by joining in horticulture projects, planting a new garden, maintaining Zoo grounds and more.

Dates & Times

Create your summer schedule following a few guidelines.

• Zoo Crew members volunteer at least 14 hours a week from the last week of May through Labor Day (or until school starts), including one weekend day or holiday per month.
• Back by popular demand!  We are looking for additional help Fridays thru Sundays – only!  If your weekdays are busy with other commitments, then this option is for you!  Zoo Crew members volunteer at least 4 days a month (Friday – Sunday) from the last week in May through mid August. (Or until school starts).
• We prefer that you work the same days and shifts throughout the summer.
• Variations to this schedule for family vacations or other camps must be arranged with the Zoo Crew manager at least two weeks in advance, and you must make up any missed time.

Tentative dates to mark on your calendar for 2010!
  (These dates are subject to change)

            Teen Interviews: Saturday, April 17th
                                         Wednesday, April 21st       
                                          Thursday, April 22nd                    
                                *In April, we will email you to set up a specific time for your interview.
                               
            Zoo Crew Orientation: Saturday, May 8th
                        * This orientation is mandatory for both the teen and one parent/guardian

            Zoo Crew Training: Saturday, May 15th

            1st Day of Zoo Crew: Tuesday, May 25th
                        *Schedules will be modified to accommodate school dismissal dates

Cost

2010 Full summer – new members: $197.50

2010 Full Summer – returning members: $187.50

2010 Weekends Only - $62.50

This fee includes one Zoo Crew t-shirt, nametag and water bottle, as well as daily supervision, program supplies and materials, Zookeeper talks and tours, special guests and more.  .

Teens also have the opportunity to be a part of the Zoo Crew team through out the year on select weekend days and for special events at no additional charge.

Note: $2.50 from each Zoo Crew registration goes to Quarters for Conservation, which expands Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's regional and global conservation efforts.

Zoo Crew Application Process:

1. Complete the Zoo Crew Online Application when the process is open.
2. Write an essay to submit as part of your online application. Or, if you need more space, type your essay and mail it with your waiver form and reference letters to the address below.  Essays are due by April 3, 2010.  Applications are not considered complete until essay is received. 
3. Download and complete the Release and Waiver of Claims form. (After you submit your application online, return to our Web site using the link provided so you can complete this step.)
4. Provide two reference letters. Include each person's name, relationship to you (parent, teacher, aunt, sister, etc.), phone number and/or e-mail address.  Reference letters must be turned in by April 3, 2010.  Applications are not complete until letters are received.  
5. Mail your references and signed waiver form (along with the completed essay if you were unable to submit it online) to:

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Megan Hudak - Volunteer Services Manager
4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd
Colorado Springs, CO  80906

6. Practice your interviewing skills. After the application deadline, we will contact you to set up an interview.  Interviews will take place in mid April.  
7. Attend your scheduled interview.
8. Soon after your interview, we will notify you about acceptance. If accepted, you will receive the orientation and training schedule.
9. Attend the mandatory orientation and training sessions. They will provide all of the information and tools you'll need to serve the Zoo, and will ensure that your volunteer experience is rewarding.

Questions? Call 719.633.9925, ext. 127, or e-mail volunteer@cmzoo.org.