Volunteer Opportunities
The Heart of the Zoo
Philadelphia Zoo offers volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups ranging in abilities and in age from 14 to adults. Most volunteers support daily operations and education programs in an ongoing basis, teaching Zoo visitors about animals and conservation projects. Volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year and are essential members of our team! Our many programs offer a variety of volunteer experiences with a range of commitment levels and training.
Benefits of Volunteering at the Zoo
Benefits of Volunteering at the Zoo
- Complimentary admission passes & parking
- Discounts on food, gift shop purchases, & more
- Access to weekly and monthly volunteer newsletters
- Invitations to annual recognition events
- Free uniform shirt & ID badge
Time Commitment & Recruitment Process
Most volunteer programs require a one-year commitment but all are encouraged to apply. Some short-term and single-day opportunities are available seasonally.
Each volunteer opportunity has an application and interview process. If accepted, volunteers must submit a background check and complete initial training. All volunteer positions require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or weekly testing at the volunteer’s expense. Selection and training for most positions takes place once per season based on school calendars, zoo needs, or other factors. Please see each position description for information on requirements for that particular program.
Volunteer & Internship Programs
The minimum requirements (unless otherwise noted) for our volunteer and internship programs are as follows:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Able to maintain courteous and helpful behavior
- Able to perform volunteer duties in a team and/or individually with minimal supervision
- Able to perform volunteer duties in varied weather conditions (i.e. heat, cold, snow or rain)
- Maintains friendly, positive attitude towards guests
- Able to maintain appropriate volunteer appearance
- Able to adhere to all zoo safety policies
- Able to maintain confidentiality regarding the Zoo’s animals when required
- Subject to criminal background check (not required for Special Events volunteers)
Current Volunteer Programs
Docent Program
Docents are passionate volunteer educators who dive deep into the world of animals, becoming experts in their own right. Participants in this program engage with zoo guests in different exhibits, complete specialized tours, and more.
New Docent Training
Whether you're fascinated by a specific species or eager to broaden your horizons to encompass the diverse inhabitants of our zoo, there's a place for you to shine. Embark on an adventure with our hybridized training class and gain access to on-site volunteering opportunities within just three months!
The full training will take nine months to complete and will include both online and onsite training. Entry points are scheduled in April 2026, July 2026, and January 2027.
All zoo exhibits will be available for training once per year and will be split into three smaller modules in 3-month periods. New docents who have completed at least one module but have not completed the full program (all three modules) will be designated as Associate Docents.
Associate Docent Status
Associate docents are docents who have knowledge limited to certain areas of the zoo. This could occur because they are actively engaging with new docent training, or they are only interested in serving in one area.
If an Associate Docent is in the process of completing the full program, their program requirement is 25 annual hours of service. If an Associate ceases training, they will be required to complete 50 hours of service annually—matching the requirements of Active docents.
Training Module Format
Month One
Online
The first month of each 3-month training module will involve online courses for individuals who do not have a history of volunteering at the zoo. The courses will include information related to the zoo and how it operates, as well as training on conservation and guest engagement.
On-site
During the first month, Associate Docents will have two opportunities for: On-site Computer Assistance/Technology training and a General Zoo Tour. There will also be one scheduled Meet and Greet Activity with Active Docents.
*If completing the full program, Associate Docents may skip steps in Month 1 when completing their second and third modules.
Months Two and Three
Online
Online trainings in the final two months of each training module will include information on the animal species that live in the Philadelphia Zoo.
Courses will provide general information on classifications of animals, group adaptations and characteristics, and common conservation issues facing the group as a whole. Information will also be provided on the individual species and animals that live at the Philadelphia Zoo. For course designations with large numbers of species, the animals most critical to conservation messaging will be prioritized, and not all animals may be highlighted. Emphasis will be placed on available zoo resources to gain further information (e.g., reptiles and birds).
Courses launch on the 1st of the month.
On-site
On-site training will be offered twice a month (one weekend and one weekday) and will include information specific to the individual animals that live at the zoo. There will be a formal classroom element (either docent or staff-led) where they will learn about the unique animals that live at the zoo and how they are cared for. There will be an opportunity to tour areas of the zoo as appropriate.
On-Site Courses will require three hours on the following dates:
2026 – 2027 Training Modules:
Module 1
April 2026 - New Entry Courses (Thursday, April 23rd, and Saturday, April 25th)
May 2026 - African Plains, Aquatic Mammals and Marsupials (Thursday, May 28th; and Saturday, May 30th)
June 2026 – Farm and Ambassador Animals (Friday, June 26th; and Saturday, June 27th)
Module 2
July 2026 - Entry Courses (Thursday, Saturday, July 25th, and Friday, July 31st; and Saturday, May 30th)
August 2026 – Birds (Friday, August 28th and Saturday, August 29th)
September 2026 - Reptiles and Amphibians (Friday, September 25th and Saturday, September 26th)
Module 3
January 2027 - Entry Courses (To be scheduled)
February 2027 – Primates (To be scheduled)
March 2027 - Big Cats (To be scheduled)
Minimum Requirements:
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills
· Able to perform duties in a team and/or individually with minimal supervision
· Able to perform duties in varied weather conditions (i.e. heat, cold, snow or rain)
· Maintains friendly, positive attitude towards guests
· Able to maintain appropriate volunteer appearance
· Able to adhere to all safety protocols
· Able to maintain confidentiality regarding the Zoo’s animals when required
· Subject to criminal background check
· Must complete a combination of online and in person training.
· Must commit to a minimum of 50 annual service hours unless opting for continued associate status (as explained above)
Age Requirements: All Docents must be 21+.
Application: To apply for the Docent program, click here.
New Docent Training
Whether you're fascinated by a specific species or eager to broaden your horizons to encompass the diverse inhabitants of our zoo, there's a place for you to shine. Embark on an adventure with our hybridized training class and gain access to on-site volunteering opportunities within just three months!
The full training will take nine months to complete and will include both online and onsite training. Entry points are scheduled in April 2026, July 2026, and January 2027.
All zoo exhibits will be available for training once per year and will be split into three smaller modules in 3-month periods. New docents who have completed at least one module but have not completed the full program (all three modules) will be designated as Associate Docents.
Associate Docent Status
Associate docents are docents who have knowledge limited to certain areas of the zoo. This could occur because they are actively engaging with new docent training, or they are only interested in serving in one area.
If an Associate Docent is in the process of completing the full program, their program requirement is 25 annual hours of service. If an Associate ceases training, they will be required to complete 50 hours of service annually—matching the requirements of Active docents.
Training Module Format
Month One
Online
The first month of each 3-month training module will involve online courses for individuals who do not have a history of volunteering at the zoo. The courses will include information related to the zoo and how it operates, as well as training on conservation and guest engagement.
On-site
During the first month, Associate Docents will have two opportunities for: On-site Computer Assistance/Technology training and a General Zoo Tour. There will also be one scheduled Meet and Greet Activity with Active Docents.
*If completing the full program, Associate Docents may skip steps in Month 1 when completing their second and third modules.
Months Two and Three
Online
Online trainings in the final two months of each training module will include information on the animal species that live in the Philadelphia Zoo.
Courses will provide general information on classifications of animals, group adaptations and characteristics, and common conservation issues facing the group as a whole. Information will also be provided on the individual species and animals that live at the Philadelphia Zoo. For course designations with large numbers of species, the animals most critical to conservation messaging will be prioritized, and not all animals may be highlighted. Emphasis will be placed on available zoo resources to gain further information (e.g., reptiles and birds).
Courses launch on the 1st of the month.
On-site
On-site training will be offered twice a month (one weekend and one weekday) and will include information specific to the individual animals that live at the zoo. There will be a formal classroom element (either docent or staff-led) where they will learn about the unique animals that live at the zoo and how they are cared for. There will be an opportunity to tour areas of the zoo as appropriate.
On-Site Courses will require three hours on the following dates:
2026 – 2027 Training Modules:
Module 1
April 2026 - New Entry Courses (Thursday, April 23rd, and Saturday, April 25th)
May 2026 - African Plains, Aquatic Mammals and Marsupials (Thursday, May 28th; and Saturday, May 30th)
June 2026 – Farm and Ambassador Animals (Friday, June 26th; and Saturday, June 27th)
Module 2
July 2026 - Entry Courses (Thursday, Saturday, July 25th, and Friday, July 31st; and Saturday, May 30th)
August 2026 – Birds (Friday, August 28th and Saturday, August 29th)
September 2026 - Reptiles and Amphibians (Friday, September 25th and Saturday, September 26th)
Module 3
January 2027 - Entry Courses (To be scheduled)
February 2027 – Primates (To be scheduled)
March 2027 - Big Cats (To be scheduled)
Minimum Requirements:
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills
· Able to perform duties in a team and/or individually with minimal supervision
· Able to perform duties in varied weather conditions (i.e. heat, cold, snow or rain)
· Maintains friendly, positive attitude towards guests
· Able to maintain appropriate volunteer appearance
· Able to adhere to all safety protocols
· Able to maintain confidentiality regarding the Zoo’s animals when required
· Subject to criminal background check
· Must complete a combination of online and in person training.
· Must commit to a minimum of 50 annual service hours unless opting for continued associate status (as explained above)
Age Requirements: All Docents must be 21+.
Application: To apply for the Docent program, click here.
Special Events Volunteers
Our Special Events volunteers assist with annual zoo events such as Boo at the Zoo in October. This program is a great opportunity for those with limited availability or for groups looking for annual service opportunities. Volunteers will be assigned to a specific station or task for event day and all efforts will be made to ensure volunteers that request placement together are stationed at the same location. Assigned duties will vary depending on event but may include: guest registration/check in, candy stations, activity stations, and set up/clean up.
Age Requirements: Volunteers must be at least 13 years old for family events / 21+ years old for adult-only events.
Time Requirements: Will vary depending on event. Volunteers must be able to work full event shift. To remain active, Special Events volunteers must complete one shift annually.
Training: All Special Events volunteers must complete online orientation training prior to the start of their shift.
Application:To sign up for Special Events, click here. Groups and Individuals are both accepted.
Age Requirements: Volunteers must be at least 13 years old for family events / 21+ years old for adult-only events.
Time Requirements: Will vary depending on event. Volunteers must be able to work full event shift. To remain active, Special Events volunteers must complete one shift annually.
Training: All Special Events volunteers must complete online orientation training prior to the start of their shift.
Application:To sign up for Special Events, click here. Groups and Individuals are both accepted.
AmeriCorps VISTA Program
Check back soon for information regarding the August 2026-August 2027 term.
College Internship Programs
Animal Care Internship
The Animal Care Internship provides introductory experience for students interested in a career working with animals. Interns work side by side with KidZooU zookeepers providing routine husbandry for animals in the Zoo's exhibit and teaching collections. Animals in this space include hedgehogs, armadillos, mini horses, rabbits, goats, chickens, sheep, porcupines, parrots, raptors reptiles, invertebrates and more! Please note that the Philadelphia Zoo is a non-contact institution—there will be minimal physical contact with animals.
Learning objectives and job duties include but are not limited to:
Animal well-being
a. Cleaning/disinfecting animal enclosures and other animal-related areas in accordance with Zoo standards/policies and other identified standards of sanitation (e.g. USDA, AZA).
b. Preparing and distributing consumption of animal food in accordance with policies and procedures.
c. Creation and implementation of approved behavioral enrichment and behavioral management programs.
d. Maintaining physical environment of exhibits and other animal-related areas to meet animal physical and psychological needs.
Guest experience
a. Preparing exhibits and building to meet established opening times.
b. Interacting routinely and positively with visitors about the Zoo and animals in their care.
Safety
a. Maintaining current knowledge of Philadelphia Zoo policies and procedures relevant to daily activities and emergencies.
b. Adhering to all safety protocols and area standard operating procedures
Animal and related knowledge
a. Continuing to increase knowledge of animal species in assigned area(s), including natural history, husbandry, enrichment, and individual information, through use of on-site materials and formal and informal training programs and opportunities.
b. May participate in professional development opportunities and course work or continuing education programs. May assist in research programs as assigned.
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Ability to complete one of the defined programmatic sessions by committing to a consistent schedule of 1-3 days per week depending on the program period
2. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview and orientation/training
4. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
5. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination record to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources
Application: To apply for our Animal Care internship, click here.
Learning objectives and job duties include but are not limited to:
Animal well-being
a. Cleaning/disinfecting animal enclosures and other animal-related areas in accordance with Zoo standards/policies and other identified standards of sanitation (e.g. USDA, AZA).
b. Preparing and distributing consumption of animal food in accordance with policies and procedures.
c. Creation and implementation of approved behavioral enrichment and behavioral management programs.
d. Maintaining physical environment of exhibits and other animal-related areas to meet animal physical and psychological needs.
Guest experience
a. Preparing exhibits and building to meet established opening times.
b. Interacting routinely and positively with visitors about the Zoo and animals in their care.
Safety
a. Maintaining current knowledge of Philadelphia Zoo policies and procedures relevant to daily activities and emergencies.
b. Adhering to all safety protocols and area standard operating procedures
Animal and related knowledge
a. Continuing to increase knowledge of animal species in assigned area(s), including natural history, husbandry, enrichment, and individual information, through use of on-site materials and formal and informal training programs and opportunities.
b. May participate in professional development opportunities and course work or continuing education programs. May assist in research programs as assigned.
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Ability to complete one of the defined programmatic sessions by committing to a consistent schedule of 1-3 days per week depending on the program period
2. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview and orientation/training
4. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
5. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination record to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources
Application: To apply for our Animal Care internship, click here.
Conservation Education Internship
The Conservation Education Internship provides college students practical experience in animal observation, education, and conservation. This program includes the opportunity to gain a broad insight into the Zoo community and how it operates. Participants immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the Zoo while providing an educational experience to guests. Interns also participate in research opportunities.
Learning objectives and job duties include but are not limited to:
Informal Education
a. Present engaging and educational informal guest experiences that inspire conservation action among the general public, schools, and other education audiences.
b. Provide friendly, outgoing, and exemplary service in accordance with the Zoo’s culture of excellence and commitment to the guest experience.
c. Support “Conservation Stations” strategically located throughout the Zoo, highlighting partnerships, animals, and conservation topics through informative materials and engaging educational games that have been selected and align with the Zoo’s mission.
Facilitating Human/Animal Interactions
a. Ensure safe and positive interactions between guests and animals at various contact or close-contact exhibits throughout the Zoo
Animal and Zoo-related knowledge
a. Expand on working knowledge of animal species in assigned area(s), including conservation status, natural history, husbandry, enrichment, and individual information, through use of on-site materials and formal and informal training programs and opportunities.
b. Learn the purpose and relevance of zoos, and how zoos support animal and human populations worldwide.
Research Projects
a. Work with the Conservation Education Department for the execution of the Zoo’s Animal Department’s ethograms to assist in gathering information on the behaviors of a specific in-house species through observations in various locations in the Zoo.
b. Support Zoo-wide surveying initiatives through the collection of data in multiple forms from guests as they navigate their personal Zoo experience.
Zoo Safety Protocols
a. Maintain current knowledge of Philadelphia Zoo policies and procedures relevant to daily activities and emergencies.
b. Adhere to all safety protocols and area standard operating procedures
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Ability to complete one of the defined programmatic sessions by committing to a consistent schedule of 1-3 days per week depending on the program period
2. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview and orientation/training
4. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
5. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination record to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources
Application: To apply for the Conservation Education Internship, click here.
Learning objectives and job duties include but are not limited to:
Informal Education
a. Present engaging and educational informal guest experiences that inspire conservation action among the general public, schools, and other education audiences.
b. Provide friendly, outgoing, and exemplary service in accordance with the Zoo’s culture of excellence and commitment to the guest experience.
c. Support “Conservation Stations” strategically located throughout the Zoo, highlighting partnerships, animals, and conservation topics through informative materials and engaging educational games that have been selected and align with the Zoo’s mission.
Facilitating Human/Animal Interactions
a. Ensure safe and positive interactions between guests and animals at various contact or close-contact exhibits throughout the Zoo
Animal and Zoo-related knowledge
a. Expand on working knowledge of animal species in assigned area(s), including conservation status, natural history, husbandry, enrichment, and individual information, through use of on-site materials and formal and informal training programs and opportunities.
b. Learn the purpose and relevance of zoos, and how zoos support animal and human populations worldwide.
Research Projects
a. Work with the Conservation Education Department for the execution of the Zoo’s Animal Department’s ethograms to assist in gathering information on the behaviors of a specific in-house species through observations in various locations in the Zoo.
b. Support Zoo-wide surveying initiatives through the collection of data in multiple forms from guests as they navigate their personal Zoo experience.
Zoo Safety Protocols
a. Maintain current knowledge of Philadelphia Zoo policies and procedures relevant to daily activities and emergencies.
b. Adhere to all safety protocols and area standard operating procedures
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Ability to complete one of the defined programmatic sessions by committing to a consistent schedule of 1-3 days per week depending on the program period
2. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview and orientation/training
4. Ability to work outside in all weather conditions
5. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination record to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources
Application: To apply for the Conservation Education Internship, click here.
Events Internship
For college students looking for hands on experience in Event Planning there is no better place than the Philadelphia Zoo to enhance your portfolio by executing numerous events in our unique landscape. With guidance from a manager, Unpaid Events Interns gain skills in preparing event documents, project coordination, and event execution. Through this opportunity, qualified candidates will gain insight in all the stages of planning, developing, and executing an event from inception to completion throughout their internship with the Events department.
Learning objectives and job duties include but are not limited to:
a. Implement Strategy and Planning:  Contribute to the strategic planning of both internal and external events held at the Philadelphia Zoo.
b. Support Project-Based Work: Assist the Events Department with project-based tasks, including client-facing events and internal Zoo events.
c. Participate in Meetings: Attend client meetings, site visits, and in-house staff meetings as needed.
d. Logistics Coordination: Engage in weekly Logistics Meetings to discuss and advise on upcoming event details based on event fulfillment memos.
e. Additional Duties: Fulfill other responsibilities assigned by the Director of Event Sales and Operations and Event Managers.
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Rising Sophomore or Junior in an accredited Program studying Event, Marketing, Communications, Hospitality or other applicable major.
2. Ability to commit to a minimum of 16 hours/week from September 8th, 2024 to December 7th, 2024.
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview prior to August 15, 2024.
4. If accepted, completion of online orientation/training prior to start date.
5. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination record to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources.
6. Preference is given to students who can earn course credit through unpaid internship participation.
7. Ability to perform physical work outdoors in all weather conditions.
8. Must be able to lift and move items up to 30lbs.
9. Availability to work evenings and weekends.
10. Possession of the following Interpersonal skills: comfortable working both independently and in a team setting; excellent organizational skills, detail-oriented thinking and strategic decision making; strong written and verbal communication skills; and ability to manage a variety of tasks and complete priorities accurately under deadline pressure.
Application: To apply for the Events Internship, click here.
Learning objectives and job duties include but are not limited to:
a. Implement Strategy and Planning:  Contribute to the strategic planning of both internal and external events held at the Philadelphia Zoo.
b. Support Project-Based Work: Assist the Events Department with project-based tasks, including client-facing events and internal Zoo events.
c. Participate in Meetings: Attend client meetings, site visits, and in-house staff meetings as needed.
d. Logistics Coordination: Engage in weekly Logistics Meetings to discuss and advise on upcoming event details based on event fulfillment memos.
e. Additional Duties: Fulfill other responsibilities assigned by the Director of Event Sales and Operations and Event Managers.
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Rising Sophomore or Junior in an accredited Program studying Event, Marketing, Communications, Hospitality or other applicable major.
2. Ability to commit to a minimum of 16 hours/week from September 8th, 2024 to December 7th, 2024.
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview prior to August 15, 2024.
4. If accepted, completion of online orientation/training prior to start date.
5. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination record to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources.
6. Preference is given to students who can earn course credit through unpaid internship participation.
7. Ability to perform physical work outdoors in all weather conditions.
8. Must be able to lift and move items up to 30lbs.
9. Availability to work evenings and weekends.
10. Possession of the following Interpersonal skills: comfortable working both independently and in a team setting; excellent organizational skills, detail-oriented thinking and strategic decision making; strong written and verbal communication skills; and ability to manage a variety of tasks and complete priorities accurately under deadline pressure.
Application: To apply for the Events Internship, click here.
Graphic Design Internship
Learning objectives and job duties include but are not limited to:
a. Implement Design Planning and Schedules: Contribute to planning and design of signage, environmental graphics, and publication projects on time and within budget.
b. Support Project-Based Work: Assist the Creative Team with project-based tasks, including guest-facing graphics and internal publications.
c. Participate in Meetings: Attend meetings, site visits, and in-house staff meetings as needed.
d. Logistics Coordination: Engage in weekly check-in meetings to discuss and plan upcoming projects.
e. Photo and Logo Library organization: Assist with filing designs, logos, photos, and projects. Clean up existing databases as needed.
f. Additional Duties: Fulfill other responsibilities assigned by the Art Director and Senior Designer.
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Major/Program experience necessary in graphic design, branding, and environmental signage. Includes in-depth knowledge of Adobe design programs, including working with fonts, files, photos.
2. Ability to commit to a minimum of 18 hours/week between May 8th-August 17th 2025 or June 8th-September 6th 2025, totaling a minimum of 240 hours.
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview prior to May 2. If accepted, completion of online orientation/training prior to start date.
4. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination records to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources.
5. Preference is given to students who can earn course credit through unpaid internship participation.
6. Ability to perform physical work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Application: To apply for the Graphic Design Internship, click here.
a. Implement Design Planning and Schedules: Contribute to planning and design of signage, environmental graphics, and publication projects on time and within budget.
b. Support Project-Based Work: Assist the Creative Team with project-based tasks, including guest-facing graphics and internal publications.
c. Participate in Meetings: Attend meetings, site visits, and in-house staff meetings as needed.
d. Logistics Coordination: Engage in weekly check-in meetings to discuss and plan upcoming projects.
e. Photo and Logo Library organization: Assist with filing designs, logos, photos, and projects. Clean up existing databases as needed.
f. Additional Duties: Fulfill other responsibilities assigned by the Art Director and Senior Designer.
Requirements include but are not limited to:
1. Major/Program experience necessary in graphic design, branding, and environmental signage. Includes in-depth knowledge of Adobe design programs, including working with fonts, files, photos.
2. Ability to commit to a minimum of 18 hours/week between May 8th-August 17th 2025 or June 8th-September 6th 2025, totaling a minimum of 240 hours.
3. Ability to attend a scheduled interview prior to May 2. If accepted, completion of online orientation/training prior to start date.
4. Submission of background checks and COVID vaccination records to Philadelphia Zoo Human Resources.
5. Preference is given to students who can earn course credit through unpaid internship participation.
6. Ability to perform physical work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Application: To apply for the Graphic Design Internship, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a volunteer?
Fill out the online application for the program of your choice, and ensure all portions have been completed. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Those whose application is considered will receive an email from volunteer programs staff to setup an interview. Upon completion of the interview individuals invited into the volunteer services are required to complete paperwork as well as a PA criminal background check and child abuse clearance. Volunteers who have lived outside of PA in the past 10 years will also be required to submit fingerprinting. All new volunteers complete online orientation and additional onsite training that includes a tour of the zoo and discussion of policies and protocols. Some positions require additional specialized training prior to receiving access to volunteer shifts in that area. Individuals can start signing up for shifts once these steps are complete!
How many hours are required to volunteer? What days and times are available?
Each position has a different time requirement and level of commitment. Shifts vary depending on the needs of the zoo and staff and volunteer availability.
As a volunteer will I be trained to handle zoo animals?
Volunteers will not handle any of the zoo animals or have access to animal exhibits. Only students participating in Animal Care Internships will receive professional experience working with zookeepers behind the scenes of the zoo.
Are there short-term volunteer positions?
Special Events Volunteers are able to complete one service day per year to remain active. Please refer to the position description for more detailed information.
Do I need a background check to volunteer?
All volunteers must provide a recent background check to be considered for our volunteer program.
Do you provide shadowing opportunities?
We receive many requests annually for short term shadowing opportunities and are unfortunately unable to accommodate such requests.
I’m a dual enrolled High School student. Am I eligible for a College Internship?
No. Our programs are designed for full time college students and recent graduates. We welcome you to apply at that time!
I am a recent college graduate or in an advanced degree program. Am I eligible for a College Internship?
Yes. Our programs are designed to provide entry level exposure to zoo careers, but are often suitable for individuals post-graduation. We recommend applicants in unique situations submit a cover letter if their most up to date resume does not convey their current career interests.