Jobs at the Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo has been welcoming visitors to its grounds since July 1, 1874.

The Zoo has more than 1,300 animals on display. More than 1.2 million visitors go through its gates each year.

The Zoo was the first one established in the United States. The idea of setting up a zoo in America came from English settlers who were very interested in seeing exotic animals brought back by hunters and sailors from faraway lands. When the Philadelphia Zoo first opened, it had 813 animals on display, and over 228,000 people visited the grounds in the first year.

Working at the Philadelphia Zoo

The Zoo hires workers on a full-time, part-time and seasonal basis. People interested in seasonal work are hired to work from March to October. They need to be flexible enough to work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required. This employer is looking for people with a positive attitude who have good problem-solving abilities. Being committed to providing exemplary customer service is also a requirement for all zoo employees.

All workers (both salaried and volunteer) at the Philadelphia Zoo are required to complete a PA Child Abuse Clearance Form before they can start work. The link to the form is on the Job Opportunities Overview page.

Seasonal Jobs at the Philadelphia Zoo

Here are some examples of the types of positions that may be available at the zoo on a seasonal basis:

1. Animal Attendant
2. Garden Services Attendant
3. Guest Relations Team Member
4. Night Flight Presenter
5. Outreach Educator

Internship Opportunities at the Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo offers several student internships to college and university students, as well as recent grads. For most opportunities, applications are accepted throughout the year and positions are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Internships offered by the Zoo are as follows:

1. Animal Care Internship (for students or grads in Animal Science, Biology, Environmental Education, and Zoology)
2. Environmental Education and Animal Behavior Internship
3. Events Internship
4. Information Technology Internship
5. Marketing and Public Relations Internship
6. Public Programming Internship
7. Public Safety Internship

Other internship opportunities may be offered in Conservation, Guest Relations, or Human Resources. To find out more about internship opportunities, call the Zoo at (215) 243-1100.

How to Apply for a Job at the Zoo

All available positions at the Philadelphia Zoo are posted on its website. Visit the Job Opportunities page to see what is available and fill out an online application form.