Frequently Asked Questions

The parent/guardian must enroll their teen in our services and attend an orientation. The teen must complete a resume using a template provided by TYS, attend required workshops, fulfill community service requirements, and actively participate in job coaching sessions.

Participants must be a minimum of 15 years old. If the participant is exactly 15 years old, they will need a work permit.

TYS will send a letter of intent to the participant. A parent/guardian must then collect the permit from the school. Please inquire with the participant's school regarding the necessary documentation.

This letter serves as an introduction to prospective employers whom the participant is keen on working for.

Participants are paid biweekly via direct deposit, requiring a checking account. The hourly pay rate is $15.00.

Retail Associate (Gift shop) or Food Service Associate.

Indoor and outdoors

Open availability Friday - Sunday; 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Participants will be working from May 25th to September 2nd, 2024. Once school begins, they will work exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays.

The SSA group supplies a uniform shirt and hat. Participants are required to wear black bottoms and non-slip grip shoes, with no joggers, leggings, yoga pants, or ripped jeans permitted.

Certainly. We rent a passenger van, and participants gather at Elgin Community College, Building K.

Participants must adhere to all safety rules, and any inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.

8:30 a.m.

Between 7:15 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Brookfield Zoo does not offer lunch services. Participants receive a meal discount but must queue as regular customers, which might lead to time constraints during busy periods. Hence, we advise participants to bring their own lunch.