CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

The Junior Zoo Keeper program at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a program designed to give 14-17 year olds real zoo experience and exposure to work in a zoo environment.  In this program, education staff, animal department staff, veterinary staff and horticulture staff will work closely together to provide a meaningful experience for the teens involved.  The Junior Zoo Keeper program is a multi-level program designed to provide an increasing challenge to teens each year they return to the program.  Teens are able to pick between a full summer session (twelve weeks) or a half-summer session (six weeks). Teens may also pick 1-2 areas each summer to work.  They will work one session in each area to allow for skill development and learning.
 

Applications for the 2008 Junior Zoo Keeper program are being accepted  starting January 12, 2008 - and extended through April 18, 2008! If you are interested in being a Junior Zoo Keeper, applications must be postmarked by April 18, 2008.  The Junior Zoo Keeper program is highly competitive and applications will not be accepted after this deadline.  Cost: $201.50 for half-session, $352.50 for full session.

Objectives:
1. During this program, teens will gain real zoo experience that will help them make informed decisions regarding a career path.
2. Participating teens will have the opportunity to develop a strong work ethic and problem solving skills.
3. By the end of this program, participating teens will have developed knowledge and skills surrounding animal care procedures.
4. At the end of this program, participating teens will have developed stronger leadership skills among their peers.

Requirements:
· Teens must demonstrate an interest in pursuing a career in animal care and health.
· Teens must be at least 14 years of age.
· Teens must be able to commit to 24 hours a week.
· Teens must be prepared to document each days work.

Cost:
$201.50 for the half-summer session
$352.50 for the full summer session
A $2.50 for full summer session or $1.50for half summer ession is designated to Quarters for Conservation, a new program that will greatly expand Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's conservation efforts in our region and around the globe.

Description of Jr. Zoo Keeper Program Levels:
The Junior Zoo Keeper program is a multi-level program designed to provide an increasing challenge to teens each year they return to the program.

Level One (1st Year): Teens are able to work in Pony Rides, in Commissary and in certain areas of the Bird House.
Level Two (2nd Year): Teens are able to work in Primate World, in Conservation, in Aquatics, in African Rift Valley and in Asian Highlands.
Level Three (3rd Year): Teens are able to work in Monkey Pavilion and in the Elephant Building.

Application Process:
1. Complete the Junior Zoo Keeper Application. This is completed online by clicking on the application link provided and following the instructions.

2. Download and complete the Release and Waiver of Claims form. After the application is submitted online, a link will be provided to direct you back to our website so you can complete this step.

3. Complete the essay. You will have the opportunity to do this online when submitting the application. If more space is needed than what is provided in the application, print or type the essay neatly and legibly.

4. Obtain three references.

5. Send references and signed waiver form (along with the completed essay and application ONLY if you were unable to submit these online) to the address below:

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Megan Hudak - Community Programs Manager
4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd
Colorado Springs, CO  80906

7. Practice interviewing skills with parents, teachers etc.

8. Attend the scheduled interview.

9. Soon after completing the interview, applicants will receive notification of acceptance. If accepted, applicants will also receive the orientation and training schedule.

10. Attend the *Orientation and Training sessions. This training is mandatory, so be sure to schedule it into your calendar. Also, remember to bring the registration fee to Orientation.

11. Past participants must also complete an essay and obtain 3 references.
 

*Note: Attendance at the Orientation and Training is required to be a Cheyenne Mountain Zoo volunteer. This training will not only provide you with all of the information and tools required to serve the Zoo, but will ensure that your volunteer experience is a rewarding one. Be sure to schedule this training into your calendar!

CMZoo Homepage

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road Colorado Springs, CO  80906 Phone(719)633-9925  Fax (719)633-2254