EDGE logo, showing EDGE text and "Columbus Zoo and Aquarium" in a bounding triangle outline

It's not just a job- it's an Edge.

By participating in the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Edge program, high school students work toward the requirements of the OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal while growing as a professional in areas such as leadership, critical thinking, discipline, teamwork and more.

Interested in Participating?

Current seasonal employees that are attending High School along with candidates that are successfully hired and are attending High School can participate in the EDGE Program. Once hired, students will need to obtain the Student OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal Validation Form from their School office or online at education.ohio.gov and an EDGE Program Commitment Form from their Department Manager. That’s it! Once the Commitment Form is signed, the student is in the program!

"Summer jobs are the ticket to success," said Melinda Huntley, Ohio Travel Association executive director. "Research has shown that those working summer jobs are more likely to graduate high school and earn more later in their careers because of the skills they gain during the working experience. Earn money, explore careers and help set yourself up for career success? There's truly no more valuable way to spend the summer."

Melinda Huntley, Ohio Travel Association executive director

Lineup of four state jobs assistance logos; Ohio Travel Association, Ohio Means Jobs seal, Ohio Governor's Office of Workforce Transformation, and Ohio Department of Education

EDGE Program Requirements

To participate in the Edge Program and fulfill program requirements, students must:

  • Obtain the Student OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal Validation Form from their school office or online at education.ohio.gov
  • Indicate that they are working towards their seal by speaking with their manager/ mentor and filling out the Edge Program Commitment Form.
  • Work 300 hours with the Zoo, Zoombezi Bay, or The Wilds over their high school academic career. This can be done over multiple seasons.
  • Arrange to meet with their mentor within one week of program start date and then at least once every 100 hours until their program completion.
Participating Departments

By participating in the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s Edge program, high school students work in a paid position toward the requirements of the OhioMeansJobs-Readiness Seal while growing as a professional in areas such as leadership, critical thinking, discipline, teamwork, and more within the following departments:

Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay:

  • Rides and Attractions
  • Food and Beverage
  • Lifeguards
  • Retail
  • Guest Relations

The Wilds:

  • Food Service
  • Retail
  • Admission