Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

Career Exploration

Internships
Students can gain meaningful experience while meeting school requirements by completing a zoo internship. The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo accepts college students and high school seniors throughout the year for internship positions in:

Education
Recreation
Zoo Keeping
Public Relations/Marketing

Externships
Students pursuing degrees in animal health can meet externship requirements at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo.  The zoo accepts college students throughout the year for externship positions in:

Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Medicine

Click on your area of interest more information, including a job description, qualifications, and a link to the application form.

Internships and externships are educational and hands-on experiences.  These positions are unpaid and priority is given to those who receive school credit for their experience. Applications are accepted all year, but should be submitted at least three months in advance of your anticipated start date to be competitive.

Lawrence A. Ackerman Scholarship
The Fort Wayne Zoological Society awards a one-time $2,000 scholarship to a high school senior pursuing a career in the stewardship of animals. Graduating high school seniors in Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, and Whitley counties in Indiana are eligible to apply.

Interested students should contact the Zoo Education Department at 260-427-6808 or click here to download an application. The annual application deadline is February 1.

The Scholarship was established in 1992 to honor the late Dr. Larry Ackerman, who served as the zoo's veterinarian for 25 years. Contributions to the fund are always welcome and may be mailed to Ackerman Scholarship Fund, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, In 46808. Contributions are tax deductible.

Zoo Careers
Do you want to get a job working with animals someday? A career in a zoo setting can be a rewarding one. Click here for more information on careers in zoos.  Click here to see job opportunities at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo.

Job Shadows
Are you a high school student considering a career as a zoo keeper? Gain a better understanding of this rewarding career by applying for a Job Shadow at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo.

Job Shadow Information
Job Shadow Application

Job Shadows are available on a limited basis and must be scheduled at least 3 weeks in advance.  A $15 fee is charged for each Job Shadow experience.  Scholarships are available for students demonstrating financial need.

 

If you have questions about any of the resources or programs listed above, contact the Zoo Education Department at 260-427-6808 or education@kidszoo.org.