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Join Our Team

Careers

Be Part of Something That Makes a Difference

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.

snake being held by an interpreter
Job Opportunities

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. Candidates being considered for employment will be contacted individually. Please do not contact us to “check on” your application.

We encourage you to check back often, as new employment opportunities are added consistently.

 

View Available Positions

Curatorial Internship Program

The Indianapolis Zoo Curatorial Internship Program is a full-time, two-year paid internship designed to provide aspiring zoo professionals with hands-on experience in animal care, conservation, and zoo management. This immersive program addresses the growing need for curators in the field, equipping interns with the skills and expertise needed to transition into full-time curatorial roles at AZA accredited zoos and aquariums worldwide.

While employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is not guaranteed, successful interns may be considered for available curatorial positions upon program completion.  If there are no curatorial positions open upon program completion, the intern is unable to go back to their previous position.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Animal Conservation!

At the Indianapolis Zoo, we are committed to developing the next generation of curatorial leaders. If you are passionate about working with animals and advancing zoo-based conservation efforts, we encourage you to apply for this unique opportunity!

Apply Here: Curatorial Internship Application 2025

Program Overview

Why Apply?
  • Gain real-world experience working alongside expert curators and animal care professionals.
  • Receive competitive compensation that is in alignment with the role.
  • Develop a strong foundation in animal husbandry, conservation initiatives, exhibit design, and zoo operations.
  • Engage in mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
  • Work on a project to apply learned skills and make a meaningful contribution to the Indianapolis Zoo.  This project will be determined based on an approved matrix item.
Program Structure
  • Year 1: Rotational assignments in various zoo departments, including animal care, horticulture and conservation.
  • Year 2: Specialization in a chosen area, working closely with a mentor to develop expertise and complete a project.
  • Professional Development: Interns participate in workshops, conferences, and industry networking events, depending on available funds
  • Performance Evaluations: Regular feedback sessions to track progress and refine career goals.
Eligibility Criteria
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in zoology, biology, animal science, or a related field.
  • Previous internship, volunteer, or work experience in animal care, research, or conservation.
  • Management experience required.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills with a passion for wildlife conservation.
How to Apply
  • Please submit the following:
    • Internship Application
    • Personal statement explaining your interest in the program and career goals.
    • Current Resume
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • Two personal references
  • Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with interviews conducted for selected candidates.
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Volunteer Opportunities

Learn About Volunteering

Intern at the Zoo

Learn About Internships

Food Service Opportunities

Openings for Aramark

Work at the Gift Shop

Openings for Event Network (Coming Soon)

Contact Us

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Machine Readable Files
Federal Transparency Coverage Rule

This link leads to the machine-readable files that are made available in response to the federal Transparency in Coverage Rule and includes negotiated service rates and out-of-network allowed amounts between health plans and healthcare providers. The machine readable files are formatted to allow researchers, regulators, and application developers to more easily access and analyze data. https://www.cigna.com/legal/compliance/machine-readable-files