ZOOKEEPER APPRENTICE PROGRAM
The Zookeeper Apprentice Program at the Oakland Zoo is designed for adults (over the age of 18) who are not currently in college. It offers the same opportunity to gain valuable skills, on-the-job training and experience as the Oakland Zoo Internship Program, but is more flexible to allow participants to work around employment schedules and other responsibilities. The program, for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a zookeeper or as a veterinarian, will increase the Apprentices’ awareness and understanding of the unique and valuable contributions that are made by zoos to conservation. All Apprentice positions are unpaid.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Individuals who wish to participate in the Zookeeper Apprentice Program must:
- Be willing to commit to regular attendance at the Zoo for a minimum of 192 hours and a maximum of 240 hours of training. Apprentices have the option of choosing:
- Fast Track: 3 full days per week for 8 weeks (192 hours);
- Regular Program: 16 hours per week (2 full days or 4 half-days) for a minimum of 12 weeks (192 hours minimum).
- Submit a completed application package for consideration. This includes the following items:
- Zookeeper Apprentice Application.
- Cover letter expressing what you hope to gain by participating in this apprenticeship, your career goals and where you learned about the apprentice program.
- Two letters of recommendation written by individuals who know you well and who can attest to your work ethic. These letters may be sent separately, but must be received before your application will be processed.
The program lasts three to four months. Zookeeper Apprentices and Zookeeper Interns receive the same training. For specific information, please go to Internships. All information in "The Program" section is applicable to both Apprentices and Interns, including the requirement for an enrichment project.
To download an Apprentice application, click here.
| Apprenticeship Dates | Deadline Dates |
|---|---|
| Summer (beginning May 15) | March 15 |
| Fall (beginning September 1) | July 15 |
| Winter (beginning January 1) | November 15 |
The completed application package is to be submitted to:
The Oakland Zoo
Zookeeper Apprentice Program
P.O. Box 5238
Oakland, CA 94605
SELECTION PROCESS
Upon receipt of the completed application package, the information will be sent to managers in the Animal Management Department. Applicants will be contacted to arrange for an interview, either in person (if the applicant lives in the San Francisco Bay Area) or by telephone. During the interview, the Volunteer Coordinators will gather information pertaining to experience, career interests, education, starting and ending dates, uniform sizes and will answer any questions the applicant may have.
Candidates who are selected for Apprenticeships will receive an acceptance letter and/or phone call as soon as a decision is made. A conscious effort is made to coordinate apprentice starting dates with intern starting dates whenever possible. Once accepted into the Zookeeper Apprentice Program, a $35.00 program fee is required to hold the applicant’s place in the program. The fee is payable prior to the start of the Apprenticeship. Final acceptance is dependent upon a background check.
All housing and transportation costs are the responsibility of the Apprentice.
Since Zookeeper Apprentice assignments involve the use of tools, equipment and interaction with live animals, Apprentices must be able to take directions and pay careful attention to procedures and established protocols. They must be able to follow instructions and carry out their responsibilities in a safe and careful manner in order to avoid injury to themselves, to employees, to visitors, and to the animals. Apprentices must be physically able to perform the cleaning, feeding and general husbandry tasks for the animals under their care in all weather, as the animals require care 7 days a week. Apprentices must be able to work well as part of a team, as well as able to work with minimal supervision. Apprenticeships are learning experiences and Apprentices must be able to accept constructive criticism and adjust to changes in the daily routine. The Oakland Zoo expects all Zookeeper Apprentices to have a basic, positive interest in animals and their safety and welfare, to be able to get along with others and to be neat, reliable and professional.
