Join Our Wonderfully Wild Team of ZooTeens
Do you have an interest in conservation and wildlife? Are you excited to learn new things? Are you passionate about teaching others and helping your local community? Then The Living Desert's ZooTeen program might be right for you!
"The ZooTeen program has taught my daughter punctuality, patience, prudence, teamwork, and team building, and made her step out of her comfort zone by talking to people from around the world on a regular basis. Most importantly, it cemented her passion for pursuing a career in zoology and conservation. I can’t say enough about the wonderful people she works with and how she really enjoys going to volunteer. Working hands-on with animals is a dream come true for her. We love the ZooTeen program, and if asked if we would ever do it again, the answer is YES, 100x over."
- Joann, ZooTeen mom since 2021
Let's answer your Volunteer questions!
Still have questions after reading the FAQ document? Please contact the Volunteer Office at (760) 346‑5694 ext. 1803 or Volunteer@LivingDesert.org
Qualifications & Requirements
Qualifications
- Enjoy people and interacting with others
- Have an established interest in nature, or the willingness to learn
- Have an open mind that is ready to learn and experience new things
- Be able to communicate clearly and calmly
- Ability to model respect for the animals and the desert ecosystem and willingness to represent The Living Desert in a friendly and professional manner
- Be responsible, committed, and enthusiastic
- Have availability - flexible scheduling is available!
Requirements
- Complete and submit the Volunteer Application
- Pass a standard background check (fee applies)
- Complete all required training for assigned duties
- Use our volunteer management system, My Impact, for all scheduling and timeclock needs (training provided)
- All volunteers must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, including one boost shot
ZooTeen Volunteer
Program
It’s never too early to get involved!
Students ages 14-18 are invited to apply to our popular ZooTeen program. As a ZooTeen, you'll have the opportunity to gain valuable life and job readiness skills while volunteering in a fun and collaborative environment. ZooTeens receive training in public speaking and guest services, as well as area-specific training in our guest interactions areas such as the Petting Kraal, Discovery Center, G-Scale Model Train Display, and more!
For specific questions, please contact the ZooTeen Office at (760) 568-0832 or ZooTeens@LivingDesert.org
"By fostering a safe and supportive environment for teens like myself, the ZooTeen program has allowed us the opportunity to learn how to communicate openly with people from all walks of life. I’m incredibly grateful to be able to learn about conservation, communication, and community as I continue to volunteer here."
- Kinsi, ZooTeen since 2021
Next Steps to Become a ZooTeen
See the qualifications and requirements
Complete the ZooTeen Application
Being a part of the ZooTeen program gave me unforgettable knowledge and experiences to help on my path towards an animal care career."
- Samantha, ZooTeen since 2019
For specific questions or to sign up for an orientation, please contact the ZooTeen Volunteer Office (760) 568-0832 or ZooTeens@LivingDesert.org
Let's answer your ZooTeen questions!
Still have questions after reading the FAQ document? Please contact the Volunteer Office at (760) 773-4879 or ZooTeens@LivingDesert.org
ZooTeen Program Overview Schedule
Applications must be received by the due date and any applications submitted after this date will be considered for the next ZooTeen application window.
Once your applications is received, you will be emailed with further instructions for the application and interview process.
Qualifications & Requirements
Qualifications
- Must be 14 to 18 years of age at the start of the program
- Enjoy people and interacting with others
- Be willing and able to represent The Living Desert in a friendly and professional manner
Requirements
- Complete and submit the ZooTeen Application
- Attend a ZooTeen orientation sessions
- Commit to a full year of service
- Commit to two shifts of volunteering service per month
- Participate in special events throughout the year
- Attend monthly meetings and answer a monthly essay question