Animal conservation is at the heart of everything we do at the Indianapolis Zoo, and every employee and volunteer makes a contribution to our mission of globally and locally advancing animal conservation. It takes a village to run a zoo! Accountants, plumbers, marketing managers, special event planners, educators, ticket takers, and human resources are just a few of the professions that comprise our operation in addition to the animal keeper and horticulturalists who provide expert care to our animal and plant collections.
Thanks for considering employment at the Indianapolis Zoo, a national leader in animal conservation and one of Indiana’s top tourist destinations. The Zoo is a private, 501(c)(3) institution, and we’re looking for motivated individuals to join our staff.
We only accept online applications for current job openings. Mailed, faxed and hand-delivered applications will not be considered. Candidates are encouraged to attach a cover letter and résumé to the online application. Please enter the title of the position you’re applying for in the “Position Desired” section of the application. Completed applications are reviewed daily and forwarded to management for further consideration. Candidates being considered for employment will be contacted individually. Please do not contact us to “check on” your application.
Check back often as new employment opportunities are added as they become available.
View Available Job Positions
Our volunteers are integral to our operation. Adult volunteers, Interns and Zoo Teens comprise the three programs managed by our Volunteer Services Department. Adults may volunteer for year round assignments or for a special event. Interns gain valuable real-world experience. Zoo Teens begin to learn about careers in zoos and aquariums, as well as gain job skills.
Applications vary on each volunteer program. Please learn more about applying as an Adult Volunteer, Intern or Zoo Teen.
Individuals must be at least 18 years of age to be an Intern or Adult Volunteer. Students between the ages of 14-18 are eligible to be a Zoo Teen.
Time commitments vary depending on the volunteer program you’re involved in. Please find more information about time commitments and requirements as an Adult Volunteer, Intern or Zoo Teen.
Adult Animal Care Volunteers and Animal Care Interns may work closely with zookeepers in exhibits and animal holding areas but they do not have direct contact with the animals. Administrative Intern and Zoo Teen positions are guest services focused.
Adult volunteers are required to purchase a volunteer uniform shirt for $26.75. (An additional fee applies to shirts size 2XL and larger). Shirts are provided for College Interns and Zoo Teens.
Volunteer opportunities are available seven days a week. A waiting list exists, however, for most weekend positions.
Volunteering at the Zoo requires a 6-month minimum commitment within a 12-month term. College students who are at least at the sophomore level and studying in the United States are eligible for the College Internship Program. Internships are available in Spring, Summer and Fall semesters in both Administrative and Animal Care roles.
The Indianapolis Zoo does not offer court-ordered community service work.
A limited number of group and one-time volunteer opportunities may be available during events such as ZooBoo and Christmas at the Zoo. Contact Volunteer Services through the form below or at (317) 630-2041 for more information.
Due to the overwhelming demand for job-shadowing opportunities each month, the Zoo is unable to accommodate these requests.
Yes, the Zoo has an extensive Internship Program for college students studying in the United States as well as recent graduates. Learn more about our internship program here.
For more information, contact Volunteer Services through the form below or 317-630-2041.
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