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Camp Crew

About the Opportunity  

Camp Crew volunteers support the North Carolina Zoo’s summer camps by helping create fun, safe, and memorable experiences for campers. Working alongside Zoo educators, Camp Crew members assist with activities, games, and crafts while serving as positive role models for younger participants. Volunteers build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills while gaining real-world experience in an outdoor setting. Camp Crew members play an important role in helping campers learn, explore, and connect with wildlife, all while having fun themselves!

A group of children and adults standing in a lush, green forest or jungle setting. They are all looking upward, with some pointing, at something high in the trees, like birds or a canopy. The light filtering through the leaves creates a dappled, vibrant atmosphere

Key Responsibilities  

  • Help create and support fun, age-appropriate activities for campers
  • Assist with crafts, games, and themed activities under staff guidance
  • Set up, organize, and clean up activity materials
  • Serve as positive role models for younger campers
  • Work as part of a team with camp staff and fellow volunteers
  • Additional responsibilities as needed  

Qualifications & Skills

  • Applicants must be one of the following:
    • Current 5th–11th graders (who will be rising 6th–12th graders in the summer) may volunteer for this assignment without a parent or legal guardian.
  • Applications from individuals outside of these categories will not be considered.
  • Ability to follow directions and work under staff supervision
  • Willingness to work outdoors and stay active during the day
  • Reliable, punctual, and committed to scheduled shifts
  • Positive attitude and enthusiasm for helping others
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Leadership potential and ability to model appropriate behavior

Schedule and Additional Information

Camps run weekdays only and take place mid-June through mid-August. Shifts occur from 8:15 a.m. until 4:15 p.m.

Camp Crew volunteers commit to a minimum of 8 camp days during the summer, including at least one full week (Monday–Friday) of camp. Volunteers may be assigned to a mix of single-day camps and week-long camps to meet this commitment.

Camp Crew Onboarding Timeline

We are excited about your interest in joining our volunteer team and being part of our Zoo community.

All steps must be completed to participate. If you’re unable to attend a step, please consider joining another teen volunteer program that better fits your schedule.

Step 1: Submit Application

The link for the Summer 2026 Camp Crew applications will open on March 1 and close on April 22 at 5 p.m. Please visit this page again during that time to apply.

Step 2: Interviews

Virtual, May 3–7 and May 10, 15 minutes each

Step 3: Orientation

Orientation completed online by June 10

Step 4: Onsite Training

Mandatory in-person training at the Zoo, June 11–12

Step 5: Begin Volunteering!

June 15–August 14

  • Minimum of 8 camp days, including at least one full week (Monday–Friday)

Step 6: Zoo Pathways Series

July 9, July 23, August 6

  • Fun learning events for teens from all programs to explore career pathways and personal growth