Why We Matter

The Calgary Zoo is a globally recognized charitable conservation organization that guides, innovates, and applies scientific solutions to restore some of the world’s most endangered species. Locally and globally we take action in the wild every day to yield powerful benefits for nature and for people. Our more than 1,000 employees and volunteers are passionate about inspiring people to take action to sustain wildlife and wild places, welcoming over 1.3 million guests annually. As visitors discover the rare and endangered species that we love and care for at our facilities, they are directly contributing through admission and on-grounds sales to a not-for-profit charitable conservation organization that works to fight extinction of plants and animals worldwide. By joining the Calgary Zoo, you can be part of our team of passionate and dedicated professionals working together to make a difference for wildlife in Canada and around the world.

Our Values

Effective Collaboration and Communication

We are each an important part of the zoo team and all contribute to the success of the zoo. We work collaboratively and support each other within our own group and between departments while working toward organizational goals. We are good listeners and share information in a timely way to eliminate misunderstanding and provide the necessary information to work effectively.

Honesty and Integrity

We are truthful, fair and non-deceitful with stakeholders (staff, visitors, trustees, volunteers, management) and deal with problems head-on by addressing and resolving issues directly with the people involved.

Customer Focus

We constantly and consistently exceed the needs of our internal and external customers to provide an unforgettable experience and delight our guests.

Safety

We continually act in a way that ensures the safety of ourselves, the animals in our care, our co-workers and guests.

Conservation

We are committed to environmental responsibility and demonstrate conservation leadership through our programs and practices; we use resources responsibly.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Calgary Zoo strives to cultivate a workplace in which everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the Zoo’s mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive.

As you walk across the vast grounds of the Calgary Zoo, you will take a trip around the world and see animals from all across the globe. The zoo is split up into 5 areas which you will have an opportunity to explore and learn more about when you join the zoo team.

Perks and Benefits

Discounts
Zoo Passes
Wellness
Develop and Grow
Make a Difference
Planning for Your Future
Behind the Scenes
Awe-Inspiring Grounds
Fun Work Environment

Discounts

  • Free coffee/tea/pop/hot chocolate with a reusable mug
  • 25% off in our Concession and Retail locations
  • Free Parking as part of your membership

Zoo Passes

Every employee receives a membership to the Calgary Zoo as well as a family or guest pass. This membership allows you to visit the zoo anytime you like and show it off to your friends and family. Employees also receive one-time use passes once a year.

Volunteers have the opportunity to earn memberships, guest passes, and one-time use passes based on the number of hours they have given to the zoo.

Wellness

The zoo is committed to the overall wellness of volunteers and employees. We have a wellness committee made up of employees and volunteers who plan various activities around the zoo for everyone to participate in.

For our full-time permanent staff, we are pleased to also offer:

  • Access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program
  • Health and Dental Benefits
  • A Health Spending Account

Develop and Grow

The zoo is committed to the personal growth and development of our employees and volunteers. Volunteers and employees have opportunities to attend educational workshops, conferences, and/or courses. Many of our volunteers move on to employment at the zoo and many of our employees have built careers at the zoo.

Make a Difference

Every employee and volunteer at the zoo is part of our mission. At the zoo, the work you do does not result in more profits for the zoo. It results in more conservation work being done. Know that the work you do contributes to endangered species being returned to the wild or ecosystems being returned to their former glory.

Planning for your future

Full-time permanent staff are provided additional benefits to help them plan for their future:

  • Employer-Matching RRSP Program
  • Short and Long Term Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance

Behind the Scenes

Staff and Volunteers get the first look at new habitats, animals, and more at the zoo! Whether it’s a brand new exhibit opening or a new silverback gorilla joining the troupe, staff and volunteers are the first group to get a glimpse!

Awe-Inspiring Grounds

Need a 5 minute break? Take a walk through our scenic gardens or say hello to a favourite animal. How often have you gone home and told your friends and family that you had lunch with the lions?

Fun Work Environment

Spend your day surrounded by smiling, happy visitors. Watch a baby animal explore their new environment. Enjoy the penguin walk. Every day at the zoo is unique and every day there is something fun to see.

Our Conservation Work

The Calgary Zoo operates the Centre for Conservation Research which uses science to protect species-at-risk. Our conservation work is focused in two areas – community conservation and reintroductions. You can learn more about our conservation work here.