The Frank Buck Zoo Teen Volunteer Program is an exciting way for students, age 14* to 18 years, to explore the possibilities of a career in zoo and aquarium sciences.  The program also gives the opportunity to gain a better understanding of how a zoological facility functions. 

We seek positive, responsible, enthusiastic students with an interest in learning about animals and who can effectively interact with Zoo guests.  Students of all academic levels will be considered for the program.  Zoo Teen positions are on a volunteer basis and are therefore unpaid, however the experience gained is immeasurable.

*Candidates must be fourteen years old by the application deadline.

Dedicated Zoo Crew team members will be trained to: use bio-facts (skulls, antlers, horns, pelts, etc.) to assist zoo visitors in learning more about the zoo's animal collection, handle small animals that are part of education programs, prepare animals meals, arrange behavioral enrichment for the animals, assist keepers with cleaning, help with public giraffe feeding, assist with Summer Safari Day Camps, and be involved with zoo overnights and special events.

A $90 activity fee is required for this program and includes a t-shirt, training manual, behind the scenes field trip to another area zoo, certificate and so much more.  This is great addition to any college application.

These positions will give Zoo Teens the training and understanding of how to interact with guests; public speaking and they get to learn amazing information about animals! 

Jr. Zoo Crew Teen Application Procedure
Application materials are as follows:

1. A completed Jr. Zoo Crew Teen Application (coming soon).

2. A typed (not hand written) 100-word essay on why he/she wants to be a member of the Jr. Zoo Crew.

3. A typed (not hand written) letter of recommendation from two teachers. 
    (Home school students may use a letter from someone other than a family member.)

Application Period:  To be considered for the Zoo Teen program, required paperwork must be received by the Zoo no later  than May 19th each year.  The earlier applications are received during the application period (January 10-May 20, 2012), the better the chance to secure a preferred interview time.  All required paperwork must be returned as a single packet.  If incomplete information is received, it will not be considered.

After the application materials have been reviewed, each student will be notified with an interview appointment by email of his/her April-May interview date.  Students selected for the program will attend an orientation session in May of 2012. If selected for the Jr. Zoo Crew teen volunteer program, candidates would be required to attend all applicable trainings for their position and volunteer one day per week (the same day each week) for the entire summer. 

Before applying, students with a heavy schedule of spring and summer activities such as summer school, sports, camps, long vacations, jobs, etc. should consider whether or not they have the time to commit to the trainings and the program. 

The Zoo Teen Program will further students’ interests, explore career goals, and develop interpretive skills in a professional zoological environment. The job skills and work ethic developed will also apply to many other work environments.  This unique opportunity for North Texas & Southern OK students is a one of a kind opportunity! Program limited to just 20 teen volunteers each summer.

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