Apprenticeships & Trial Apprenticeships

Animal Caregiver EFZ, specializing in wildlife care

We offer two apprenticeships in wildlife care each year. Detailed information about the job profile is available on the berufsberatung.ch website.

Open Apprenticeship Position: Animal Caregiver (EFZ)

We are looking for a dedicated young person who is truly interested in an apprenticeship as an animal caretaker (EFZ).

We'll support you in this:

• You will be responsible for the care and welfare of our zoo animals in their various habitats.

• You are a keen observer and will help interpret the animals’ behavior based on scientific findings.

• Cleaning: The habitats are your territory, and you’ll keep them spotless. In doing so, you’ll apply hygiene principles to maintain and promote the animals’ health.

• Feeding our animals in a species-appropriate manner, taking their specific needs into account.

Here's how to become a pro in your apprenticeship:

• Already graduated from high school? (Completed Secondary School A or B) Check!

• The connection between humans and animals is right up your alley, and you’re fascinated by nature and biology.

• Wind and weather can’t faze you—you love working outdoors.

• Looking for a challenge? You’re in top shape and don’t shy away from physical work when it counts.

• You handle responsibility with ease, and reliability is your trademark.

• You’re a team player, and you’re a natural communicator.

Here's our wide range of offerings for you:

• Adventures in everyday zoo life: You’ll complete a super diverse and exciting apprenticeship at one of the most amazing zoos.

• We’re here for you, and you’ll learn from the pros: Hands-on experience in animal care and conservation awaits you.

• Independent work, a strong sense of responsibility.

• A varied apprenticeship in a dynamic environment.

Send us your resume, a personal cover letter, your transcripts, and any other documents (e.g., internship evaluations) to bewerbung@zoo.ch.

Information Session on the Animal Caregiver EFZ Program

At our information session, we’ll provide you with important information and insights into the animal care training program. The information session is aimed specifically at students in the 2nd year of secondary school. You must attend the information session to be eligible to apply for the two-day trial apprenticeship! The information session lasts about three hours, from 1:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. You’ll receive all the details in your registration confirmation.

The information afternoons in January 2027 are already fully booked.

Taster Internship

To participate in a wildlife care internship, you must first attend the information session (see above). If you have any other questions about the internship, you can call us any morning at 044 254 25 08.

Commercial Clerk (EFZ), Services and Administration

We offer one apprenticeship position as a business clerk each year. Detailed information about the job profile is available on the berufsberatung.ch website.

Open Apprenticeship Position: Business Clerk (EFZ)

We are looking for a motivated young talent who is truly interested in an apprenticeship as a business clerk (EFZ).

We'll support you in this:

• Acquiring the practical skills required by the training ordinance and curriculum for the apprenticeship

• Learning and performing administrative tasks in various areas (e.g., guest services, finance and controlling, HRM, etc.)

• Taking on various tasks and learning to handle them independently—whether in direct contact with customers, where you represent Zoo Zurich and its values, or behind the scenes, where you ensure smooth operations.

Here's how to become a pro in your apprenticeship:

• You have successfully completed high school (Track A or B).

• You have good keyboard skills and enjoy working on a computer.

• You are articulate both verbally and in writing.

• You work with precision and are a quick learner.

• Reliability and a sense of responsibility are right up your alley.

• Teamwork and good manners are important to you.

Here's our wide range of offerings for you:

• Dedicated trainers who will provide you with competent and expert support throughout your entire apprenticeship

• A diverse apprenticeship offering insights into various departments at Zoo Zurich

• Independent work, a strong sense of responsibility

• A varied apprenticeship in a dynamic organization

Send us your resume, a personal cover letter, your transcripts, and any other relevant documents (e.g., internship evaluations) to bewerbung@zoo.ch.

Career Exploration

All of our 2026 trial session dates are already fully booked. The next dates will be available in spring 2027. You’ll find all the details here starting in January 2027.

Media Specialist EFZ

We expect to offer the next apprenticeship position as a Mediamatician in the summer of 2029. Detailed information about the job description is available on the berufsberatung.ch portal.

Retail Specialist EFZ, Toy Industry Training Program

We offer one apprenticeship position as a retail specialist each year. Detailed information about the job description is available on the portal berufsberatung.ch.

Open Apprenticeship Position: Retail Specialist EFZ

We are looking for a motivated young talent who is truly interested in an apprenticeship as a retail specialist (EFZ).

We'll support you in this:

• You’ll help make our shops at Zoo Zurich attractive, well-organized, and customer-friendly—from stuffed animals to puzzles.

• You’ll provide friendly and knowledgeable advice to customers, address their needs, and find the right product—whether for little animal lovers or big explorers.

• You’ll ensure that the sales shelves are always neat, well-stocked, and attractively displayed.

• You’ll handle the register carefully and keep track of everything, even during busy moments.

• You’ll assist with planning and executing promotions, themed displays, and special sales.

• You’ll actively contribute—with ideas, creativity, and enthusiasm for our product range.

• In addition to toys, our diverse product range includes high-quality merchandise, spices, and chocolate products.

What's included:

• You’ll get to know our diverse product range.

• You’ll become proficient in using point-of-sale systems and handling payment transactions.

• You’ll handle merchandise receipt, inspection, inventory management, and proper placement on the sales floor.

• You’ll help design sales areas and displays—creatively and tailored to the target audience.

• You’ll work closely with your team members, the logistics department, and other areas of the business.

Here's how to become a pro in your apprenticeship:

• You enjoy interacting with people and active sales.

• You’re interested in toys and trends related to child-friendly learning, play, and discovery.

• You work carefully, are reliable, and take the initiative.

• Friendliness, a well-groomed appearance, and confident communication come naturally to you.

• You find it exciting to work in the setting of a modern zoo and to offer customers a special shopping experience.

Here's our wide range of offerings for you:

• Skilled and dedicated instructors will guide you throughout your entire apprenticeship.

• You’ll benefit from a diverse work environment where sustainability and hands-on experience are top priorities.

• Five weeks of vacation and a personal annual pass to Zoo Zurich are also included.

Send us your resume, a personal cover letter, your transcripts, and any other supporting documents (e.g., internship evaluations) to bewerbung@zoo.ch.

Career Exploration

We offer a two-day introductory program for upper secondary school students. We look forward to receiving your registration via email at schnupperlehre@zoo.ch.

Facilities Maintenance Specialist EFZ, specializing in Housekeeping

We currently have no apprenticeship openings for a Facility Maintenance Specialist. Detailed information about the job description can be found on the portal berufsberatung.ch.

Cook (EFZ)

We offer one apprenticeship position as a cook each year. Detailed information about the job is available on the portal berufsberatung.ch.

Open Apprenticeship Position: Chef (EFZ)

We are looking for a dedicated young talent who is truly interested in an apprenticeship as a chef (EFZ).

We'll support you in this:

• Preparing a wide variety of dishes allows you to learn different techniques and cooking methods.

• You'll help out at events and catering jobs and contribute your ideas.

What's included:

• Plan the daily schedule together

• Carefully receive and store freshly delivered products in accordance with hygiene guidelines

• Properly prepare for work and set up the kitchen (mise en place)

• Complete administrative tasks such as placing orders, etc.

Here's how to become a pro in your apprenticeship:

• You’re a team player and keep a cool head even in hectic situations.

• You’re passionate about working with food in a creative and meticulous way.

• You’re curious about a constantly evolving cuisine that emphasizes regional ingredients and sustainability.

• At events, you appreciate the unique zoo atmosphere and direct interaction with guests.

• Thanks to our 7-day operation, you can enjoy your time off even when the city isn’t crowded.

Here's our wide variety of offerings for you:

• Motivated trainers will be there to support you with advice and assistance throughout your entire apprenticeship.

• You’ll have the opportunity to learn a wide variety of skills in the classic à la carte setting at the Altes Klösterli restaurant, in the production kitchen, and in the event kitchen.

• A varied apprenticeship awaits you in our bustling, 365-day-a-year operation.

• The consistent work schedule allows you to enjoy your free time to the fullest.

• Five weeks of vacation and an annual pass to Zoo Zurich round out the package.

Send us your resume, a personal cover letter, your transcripts, and any other relevant documents (e.g., internship evaluations) to bewerbung@zoo.ch.

Career Exploration

We offer a two-day introductory program for upper secondary school students. We look forward to receiving your registration via email at schnupperlehre@zoo.ch.

Chain Restaurant Specialist (EFZ)

We offer two apprenticeships each year for the position of System Catering Specialist. Detailed information about the job description is available on the portal berufsberatung.ch.

Open Apprenticeship Position: Foodservice Specialist EFZ

We are looking for a dedicated young talent who is truly interested in an apprenticeship as a Foodservice Specialist (EFZ).

We'll support you in this:

• Plate meals and prepare beverages

• Set up the venue according to guidelines and maintain a consistent look

• Operate the cash register

• Assist with events and catering and contribute ideas

• Advise guests and handle their requests competently

What's included:

• Carefully receive and store delivered products in accordance with hygiene guidelines

• Arrange and present beverages and food in accordance with the zoo’s image

• Calculate prices

• Complete administrative tasks such as placing orders, etc.

• Efficiently plan work together with the team and create duty rosters

Here's how to become a pro in your apprenticeship:

• You’re a team player and keep a cool head even in hectic situations.

• You care about the image of Zoo Zurich, which you embody through your actions and demeanor.

• You analyze, plan, and design processes.

• Handling food hygienically and carefully is second nature to you.

• At events, you appreciate the special zoo atmosphere and direct contact with guests.

• Thanks to our 7-day operation, you can enjoy your time off when the city isn’t crowded with people.

Here's our wide variety of offerings for you:

• Motivated trainers will be there to offer you advice and support throughout your entire apprenticeship.

• You’ll have the opportunity to learn a wide variety of skills at a company committed to sustainability and innovation.

• A varied apprenticeship awaits you in our bustling, 365-day-a-year operation.

• The consistent work schedule allows you to enjoy your free time to the fullest.

• Five weeks of vacation and an annual pass to Zoo Zurich round out the benefits.

Send us your resume, a personal cover letter, your transcripts, and any other relevant documents (e.g., internship evaluations) to bewerbung@zoo.ch.

Career Exploration

We offer a two-day orientation program for upper-level secondary school students. We look forward to receiving your registration via email at schnupperlehre@zoo.ch.

Restaurant Specialist (EFZ)

Every two years, we offer an apprenticeship as a restaurant specialist. Detailed information about the job description is available on the berufsberatung.ch website.

Open Apprenticeship Position: Restaurant Specialist EFZ

We are looking for a motivated young talent who is truly interested in an apprenticeship as a restaurant specialist (EFZ).

We'll support you in this:

• You’ll learn how to provide professional service to guests and offer them an unforgettable dining experience.

• Serving food and drinks and advising guests are part of your varied daily routine.

• You’ll actively participate in events and catering assignments and contribute your ideas. 

What's included:

• Plan the daily schedule together

• Welcome, advise, and assist guests

• Serve food and beverages professionally

• Set tables and create a pleasant atmosphere

• Comply with hygiene standards and quality guidelines

• Complete administrative tasks such as reservations or billing 

Here's how to become a pro in your apprenticeship:

• You are a*team player* and can keep a clear head even in hectic situations.

• You enjoy interacting directly with people.

• You have a well-groomed appearance and good manners.

• You are attentive, friendly, and enjoy working independently.

• At events, you appreciate the special zoo atmosphere and interacting with a wide variety of guests.

• Thanks to our 7-day operation, you can enjoy your time off even when the crowds aren’t swarming through the city. 

Here's our wide range of offerings for you:

• Motivated trainers will be there to support you with advice and assistance throughout your entire apprenticeship.

• You’ll have the opportunity to gain a wide range of experience in various areas of the food service industry and at events.

• A varied apprenticeship awaits you in our bustling, 365-day-a-year operation.  

• The consistent work schedule allows you to enjoy your free time to the fullest.

• Five weeks of vacation and an annual pass to Zoo Zurich round out the benefits.

Send us your resume, a personal cover letter, your transcripts, and any other relevant documents (e.g., internship evaluations) to bewerbung@zoo.ch.

Career Exploration

We offer a two-day introductory program for upper secondary school students. We look forward to receiving your registration via email at schnupperlehre@zoo.ch.