Youth Zoo Crew – Little Rock Zoo

Join the Youth Zoo Crew at the Little Rock Zoo!

Each day, the Little Rock Zoo becomes a living classroom—and you can be part of it! Youth ages 13–17 are invited to join the newly revamped Youth Zoo Crew, where teens support Zoo staff in creating experiences that inspire people to value and conserve our natural world.

Participants should be eager to learn, step outside their comfort zones, engage with guests of all ages, and share a passion for wildlife and conservation.

Program Overview

All accepted teens complete a 3-week summer training session before participating in year-round programming. Each week highlights a different focus area:

Week 1: Assisting with Zoofari Camp
Week 2: Guest Engagement & Interpretation
Week 3: Conservation & Zoo Careers

Upon selection, participants will choose their preferred summer weeks for their training sessions.

Application Requirements

Submit an online application during the submission window of January 1, 2027 to February 1, 2027.
Completed application includes general candidate information, contact information, and a series of questions about experiences. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
If selected for an interview, candidates will submit a recommendation letter completed by a non-related adult.

Important Dates

Eligibility: Must be 13 by May 1, 2027, and not turn 18 before the end of the session
Applications Open: January 1, 2027
Applications Due: February 1, 2027 (by 5:00 PM)
Interviews: February 27, 2027 (in person; teens select a timeslot)
Mandatory Orientation: April 3, 2026
Mandatory Zoofari Camp Training: April 2027
Program Schedule: Three-week summer training, Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Program Fee

$85 per teen – covers the cost of name badge, two program shirts, and program materials. This fee is only due upon admission into the program.

After training, teens are eligible to continue with year-round opportunities at no additional cost.