- Who can volunteer at the NC Zoo?
- Opportunities are available for adults (ages 16 and older) and teens (ages 12-15 years old). Some assignments allow youth to volunteer independently, while others require teens to volunteer with a parent or legal guardian.
- What is required to become a Zoo volunteer?
- Individuals are invited to join our team during open recruitment, December through May. To begin the process, find an opportunity that interests you, and submit an interest form during the recruitment cycle that corresponds to the month you wish to begin volunteering.
- What happens after I submit an interest form online?
- You will be contacted by email with specific dates to attend next steps to complete the onboarding process.
- Learn more about volunteering during a virtual Information Session with our team.
- Attend a scheduled virtual orientation
- Join us onsite for a Zoo visit
- Participate in assignment specific training
- Begin volunteer shifts at the Zoo!
- You will be contacted by email with specific dates to attend next steps to complete the onboarding process.
- What if I can’t attend or miss one of required virtual or in-person requirements to volunteer?
- If you cannot complete all the steps by the posted deadlines, you will need to submit another interest form during a future recruitment month when you are able to complete all the listed steps. Please check our website often for future onboarding cycle dates and details.
- How often will I be expected to volunteer?
- Most volunteer assignments request a commitment of twice a month, March through mid-November. Commitment requirements are listed with each assignment.
- What are typical volunteer shift times?
- Shift times vary by assignment, but most shifts end by 2pm - although there are a few options for afternoon opportunities (Wildlife Rehabilitation, Research, and Receptionist).
- Do I need previous experience to volunteer?
- While experience might be helpful, it isn’t required. One of the many benefits of volunteering is learning new skills! Training is provided by Zoo experts to prepare volunteers for assignments.
- Are there assignments that allow me to volunteer directly with animals?
- Volunteers can gain hands-on animal experience at our Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, where they help care for injured, sick, and orphaned native wildlife. Opportunities are not available to volunteer directly with Zoo animals.
- Is volunteering accessible?
- Reasonable accommodations will be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable laws and policies.
- Is there a fee to volunteer?
- There is a one-time onboarding fee of $20 for new volunteers. The fee may be waived by request for anyone experiencing financial hardships.
- Do volunteers wear uniforms?
- Yes! As part of our Zoo Crew, you will wear a uniform that helps guests recognize you as a member of the team.
- Are there Summer Only volunteer opportunities?
- Yes, we do offer short-term opportunities for individuals with limited availability during the months of June through August, with a commitment of one shift per week. Applications for Summer volunteers open
April 9, 2026 and include:- Investigation Station Education Volunteer (Adults, Families)
- Zoo Hosts (Adults, Families)
- Play Pal (Teens)
- Yes, we do offer short-term opportunities for individuals with limited availability during the months of June through August, with a commitment of one shift per week. Applications for Summer volunteers open
- Can I volunteer if I can’t make a long-term commitment?
- Yes! Volunteers can make a difference whether they are available ongoing, or only for a day. We offer opportunities for small groups to volunteer for Single Days of Service. Gather a group of friends, family, or co-workers and visit our Single day of service page for more details,
- Does the Zoo offer internships?
- Yes, we offer internships for post-secondary students and recent graduates. Please check our internship page here for more information.
- Do we offer court ordered community service opportunities?
- Because most of our volunteer opportunities require training and an on-going commitment of service through November, we do not offer opportunities to satisfy court appointed community service hours.
- Are volunteers often hired as paid employees?
- Many of our staff did begin their career as a volunteer, intern, or in temporary positions. Volunteering is a great way to explore zoological careers, build your resume, and develop skills. If you are seeking employment, please refer to the careers portion of our website to view current job openings.
