What are some Jobs that a 16 year old can do at a ZOO?

Question

im 16 years old, turning 17 in November, i live in orange county California, and i really want to have my first job to deal with Animals..

is there anything a teen can do at a Zoo? i dont really want to volunteer because you dont get paid.

Answer 1

They'll probably have you shovelling zebra ****...

Answer 2

If you want a paid job at a zoo, you probably won't be working with animals.

http://www.sandiegozoo.org/jobs/general_...

These positions include food service clerks, merchandise sales clerks, ticket sellers, Park aides, visitor assistance officers, pricing clerks, and parking lot attendants.

If you want to work with the animals at the zoo you're looking at an unpaid volunteer/intern. However, if you are wanting to work at a zoo after college, this experience will be invaluable. Another good unpaid experience might be working at a wildlife rehab center.

If you really want a paid job with animals, most likely you are not going to be working with wild/exotic animals. Vet clinic, groomer, pet sitter, etc.

http://www.seaworld.org/career-resources...

CATCH 22?

1. To get a job working with animals, you need experience with animals. This bit of truth seems to create a frustrating circle. You need experience to get a job, but you can't get experience unless you have a job, right? Well, yes and no.

VOLUNTEER

1. To begin a career caring for animals, you should be prepared to start with a volunteer or entry-level position. Call your nearest zoo or aquatic park and ask for details on becoming a volunteer (also called a docent or intern). Humane societies, animal rehabilitation clinics, and some veterinary clinics also welcome volunteers. Although your duties with a humane society or veterinary clinic will most likely involve working indirectly with animals (cleaning cages and preparing food), volunteer duties at a zoo or aquatic park range from filing or answering phones to being trained to make educational presentations or feed newly hatched birds.

Volunteering your time shows that you're serious about your commitment to animals. Develop a reputation for being an eager, cooperative, hard-working person, and your volunteer effort may help you get a job in the future. Supervisors are often asked to give character references for volunteers who've worked for them.

SETTING YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS

1. A strong background in zoology is necessary for most of the jobs that involve working closely with animals. Ask your school counselor to help you work out a course list that will prepare you to earn a degree in zoology, biology, chemistry, botany, or psychology. Take your classes seriously; zoological parks are more interested in hiring a hard-working, knowledgeable person than someone who "loves animals."

Don't wait until you have a degree before you apply for a job at a zoological park. Some of the curators, supervisors, aquarists, and others got their start by working at snack stands and gift shops before moving into their present careers. An entry-level position will help you establish a name for yourself as a dedicated employee, and introduces you to how hiring is handled within that zoological institution.

Lastly, many of the professional organizations listed in the Appendix have special membership rates for nonprofessionals and students. You'll be able to learn more about animals and zoological careers through their newsletters. Also, by attending local workshops and even national conferences, you might make some good contacts and get more information on how to chart your path for your zoological park career.

http://www.aazk.org/zoo_career.php

The educational requirements for an entry level zoo keeper varies but is often a college degree in zoology, biology or an animal-related field. Some animal care experience such as zoo volunteer or intern, or veterinary hospital worker is also helpful. Some colleges offer specific programs oriented towards a career in zoos. The Santa Fe Community College in Gainesville, Florida, for example, has a Teaching Zoo, while Moorpark College in California offers an Exotic Animal Training Management Program.

Answer 3

The best way to find out is to get in touch with your local zoo.  Like the other people said, you'll probably have to volunteer if you want to get remotely near animals.  There are plenty of paying ticket and food stand jobs though...  Good luck!

Answer 4

If you don't want to volunteer than don't ever count on being paid to work with animals.  Most people that work with animals and get paid for it either have degrees or have spent LOTS of time volunteering or doing intenships that pay nothing or very little.  The only job you may be able to get at a zoo and get paid for is at a concession stand.  If you want to work with animals..I suggest looking into the volunteer programs your local zoo has.  Try the Santa Ana Zoo, or the Irvine Zoo.  Los Angeles Zoo as well if it is not too far for you.  Some zoos do have programs that will eventually lead to paid work..but you MUST first gain experience by working for free or by going to school to earn a degree.