VOLUNTEER POSITION OVERVIEW
As members of the Central Florida Zoo’s Teen Team, teenagers ages 13 to 17 can make new friends, learn something new, and play a vital role in educating Zoo visitors. Teens will receive special hands-on training, including handling animals and presenting wildlife biofacts. They’ll participate in special events and share their new knowledge on wildlife and conservation issues with guests, learning the skills they’ll need later in life and gaining valuable work experience.
Duties
- Educate members of the public of all ages
- Facilitate learning opportunities
- Animal handling, interpretation, and observations
- Utilize bio-facts to educate guests
- Monitor guest interactions and enforce Zoo policies to keep animals and guests safe
- Educate the public about animal conservation at Zoo events
- Assist with zoo projects
How to Apply
We bring on new Teen Team volunteers once a year. The annual process starts in August when we send out applications. Please complete the online request form below to receive an application in August.
How It Works
Teens must apply for the Teen Team program and complete an interview. If selected, teens must attend a multi-day training program and pass a final exam. Training classes will be once a week, on the weekend. Upon successful completion of training, teens volunteer on select Saturdays and Sundays each month. During Summer break, teens may have the opportunity to volunteer on weekdays by assisting with Summer Camp.
The tentative application process is as follows:
- August – Applications Open
- September – Applications Close
- October – Selected Applicants Will Interview
- November – Acceptances Sent Out
- January – Training Begins
Requirements:
- Must be between ages 13-17 years old.
- Must be 13 by the start of the first class in January.
- Pay a $30 training fee for a manual and uniform shirt.
- Volunteer shifts are completed on Saturdays, Sundays, and during school breaks.
- Participate in volunteer orientation.
- Pass training program with 80% or higher.
- Successfully completed introductory period.
- Abide by policies in the Volunteer Handbook.
- Provide excellent customer service and demonstrate the ability to work well with visitors.
- Must be able to tolerate Florida’s weather conditions.
- Be interested in educating the public about conservation.
Tuition
A $30 program fee is required and includes a Teen Team manual and Zoo shirt.
Applications for Teen Team are currently closed.
We will be accepting applications again in early 2023.
Questions?
Contact the Volunteer Office at 407.323.4450 ext. 127 or email volunteers@centralfloridazoo.org.
