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About

The Indianapolis Zoo is located on a 64 acre campus in the heart of Indy's vibrant downtown area.  The mission of the Indianapolis Zoo is to empower people and communities, both locally and globally, to advance animal conservation.  In the words of our President and CEO Mike Crowther, We're not a zoo doing conservation; we're a global conservation organization that is a  zoo".                                                      

The Indianapolis Zoo is also committed to sustainability—the ability of humans to provide responsible stewardship of the Earth's limited and precious resources. The entire Zoo staff is involved with efforts to lead the way by making the Zoo itself as green as possible.

A sampling of our connections to worldwide conservation include:

Indianapolis Prize

The biennial Indianapolis Prize, is a program of the Indianapolis Zoo and recognized as the world's leading award for animal conservation. The Indianapolis Prize is awarded to an individual who has made significant strides in animal conservation. In addition to a $250,000 cash award, the winner — selected from among six finalists — receives the Lilly Medal and each of the other five finalists receives $10,000. The 2014 Indianapolis Prize winner, Dr. Patricia Wright, was announced in May, and on Sept. 27, 2014, she and the finalists were celebrated at a black-tie gala in downtown Indianapolis presented by Cummins Inc. Visit IndianapolisPrize.org for complete information, or follow the Prize on Facebook and Twitter. 

Hix Institute for Research and Conservation

Creating the guiding principles that help the Indianapolis Zoo fulfill its mission comes under the auspices of the Hix Institute for Research and Conservation. The Institute approaches conservation with multiple strategic objectives that are carried out through a variety of programs that build awareness of conservation issues; promote sustainable behavior; protect wildlife and wild places; and advance conservation knowledge.

Our Values

Value

We value, encourage, listen to and challenge our staff, while fostering a climate of trust, respect and high ethical standards.

Accountability

We are committed to a high level of community inclusion and standards.

Leadership

We energetically and proactively advance the Zoo's mission and vision.

Excellence

We continually strive to provide the highest quality facilities and experiences for our animals, our visitors and our employees.

Sustainable Operation

We manage our operation prudently and with fiscal responsibility, and we maintain a long-term focus with plans that ensure sustainable growth.

Diversity Commitment

Consistent with the Indianapolis Zoological Society's mission and values, the Indianapolis Zoo is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive culture in which visitors, employees, suppliers and community partners are respected and valued.

Science has demonstrated that plant and animal diversity makes for strong natural communities and the Indianapolis Zoo believes that diversity makes institutions stronger as well.

Employment, Internships, & Volunteering

Employment opportunities naturally include Zoo Keepers, those who provide animal care. Additionally, we hire professionals to work in Marketing, Public Relations, Fundraising, Special Events, Operations Management, Education & Training, Human Resources, and the Skilled Trades (Plumbing, Carpentry, Electrician, Mechanic).  Our college internship program has been rated as one of the best in the country, and is managed by our Volunteer Services department.  Explore our website, http://www.indianapoliszoo.com/contact/employment-and-volunteers/zoo-staff-employment, for more information.