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Junior Zookeeper

The Junior Zookeeper program is the Great Plains Zoo’s summer involvement program for teens age 12-18. It provides teens who are interested in animals a chance to develop life skills and an opportunity to work with animals and kids in a fun and exciting environment!

To participate in the JZK program, participants must:

  • Be 12 to 18 years old on June 1, 2019.
  • Be willing to volunteer consistently throughout the summer for at least 2 shifts per week.
  • Attend orientation and any other required training.
  • Provide evidence of a negative TB test.
  • Provide their own lunch and transportation to and from the Zoo.
  • Pay a program fee of $85 for members and $100 for non-members (tax included).
    • Fee covers cost of materials, 2 uniform t-shirts, and educational opportunities.
    • Please do not send this fee with your application.

Application Process:

  • Applications for the 2019 Program were due on Friday, April 5. 
  • Teens selected for an interview will receive an invitation by April 15.
  • Interviews for new applicants will be held on Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28.  
    • Interviews for returning applicants will be held on Saturday, April 6 and Sunday, April 7.
  • Teens selected for the program will receive notification of acceptance by May 10.

Important 2019 Program Dates:

  • The program will kick off with a party on Wednesday, May 22. 
    • Program fee, TB tests, and scheduling calendars must be turned in on this date.
  • Orientation is required for all JZKs. 
    • Level 1 orientation will be from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28.
    • Level 2 orientation will be from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 30.
  • The program begins on June 3 and ends on Aug. 11. 
  • JZKs will be recognized for their hard work at an Achievement Ceremony on Aug. 13. 

Click here to download the 2019 JZK Information Packet.

  • Love this zoo! Great place to get a walk in and the animals are everywhere! The museum/indoor part is very educational too. Has a lot of shade for when it's hot out. Very clean. Friendly staff.

    Taylor F.

  • We love to visit the zoo. They have great outdoor exhibits and lots to do inside as well. Great for kids and adults.

    Robin A.

  • Lots of great exhibits and animals to see! Fun gift shop and learning center.

    Stephanie N.

  • The museum gives you a break from the sun on hot summer days and has a great selection of animal exhibits from around the world.  The zoo keeps growing and adding new animal habitats or improving existing ones.  Membership offers reciprocal benefits to other zoos around the country.

    Bill T.
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