Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders

What's Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders? 

The Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders (OWLs) is a program for youth ages 13 to 16 with a passion for animals and conservation. Participants develop skills by volunteering at the zoo, doing hands-on conservation work in the Portland metro area and learning about the zoo and conservation fields. 

This program is in its second year of growth! Inspired by community conversations we held in 2023 and our pilot year in 2024, we’re excited to continue to grow teen engagement at the Oregon Zoo. 

Who can be a Wildlife Leader? 

Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders is for any interested teen from the Portland Metro Area between the ages of 13 and 16. Since space is limited, participants will be selected through an application and interview process. There are no fees or background requirements to participate in this program. We’re looking for young people of all kinds who are excited to learn about wildlife, conservation and zoo careers. You do not need to know about these topics in advance!

When does the program begin? 

The summer season lasts for ten weeks. If selected, each participant and an adult will attend the required orientation on April 25, and trainings on May 10 and June 7. There will be no make-up trainings. 

Wildlife Leaders are expected to volunteer at least once a week for eight of the ten weeks. Shifts are on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Each shift is six hours long with a lunch break. Participants who meet their hour requirements will be invited to return in the fall, spring and following summer for additional opportunities.

What do Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders do? 

Wildlife Leaders contribute in a variety of ways, primarily leading activities for guests around the zoo. They also participate in activities to learn about zoos, conservation and animal care. Wildlife Leaders are expected to use their growing knowledge to support the zoo’s mission to connect our community to wildlife to create a better future for all.

How does someone become an Oregon Wildlife Leader?

There are two upcoming virtual info sessions for interested teens and their families to learn more.

• Tuesday, Feb. 18, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 4, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

We’ll share more information about the program, details about the application and interview process and time for questions.

Register for a session

Applications will be open Feb. 16 to March 9, after which a selection of candidates will be contacted for an interview in April. Interested teens should fill out an application themselves. There are no right or wrong answers, and no trick questions — we want to get to know your authentic self!

For questions or inquiries about Oregon Zoo Wildlife Leaders, please email [email protected].