Zoo Hosts are front-line members of Guest Services, initiating interactions with guests of varying ages. Volunteers are stationed in assigned locations throughout the Zoo to greet guests, assist with wayfinding, promote paid attractions, and share about special events. Volunteers also provide information about the transportation system, available services such as food & retail outlets, picnic areas, wheelchair, and stroller rentals, where to obtain medical assistance, and offer suggestions to maximize their time to make the most of their visit.
Time Commitments
Volunteers should be available to commit to two shifts each month.
Available Shifts: March - November. Wednesdays through Sundays, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Summer only options: Available June – August with a minimum commitment of one shift weekly. Submit Volunteer Interest Form beginning May 3.
Training
On the job training and printed materials will help familiarize volunteers with the layout of the Zoo, available services, and answers to commonly asked questions to assist volunteers with providing personalized and memorable guest experiences. Zoo Host volunteers are not trained to interpret the Zoo’s plant and animal collections.
Age requirement
Minimum age requirement is 16 years old
Onboarding Timeline to Attend February Orientation
We are excited for you to join our volunteer team in February! To ensure a smooth start, all steps below must be completed as scheduled.
If you are not available to complete any of the steps listed below due to scheduling conflicts, please check back starting February 12 to review the onboarding timeline to begin your adventure with us in March. If your availability aligns with the March time frame, please wait to submit a Volunteer Interest Form after February 12.
Step 1: Volunteer Interest Form
Click to submit a Volunteer Interest Form
- Deadline to submit form: February 11
Step 2: Information Session
Information Sessions will be conducted virtually.
- February (You will choose ONE date to attend)
- Thursday, February 19 from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Saturday, February 21 from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Step 3: Orientation
Orientations will be conducted virtually.
- Must complete step 2 to receive the Zoom link to attend
- February
- Saturday, February 28 from 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Step 4: Onsite Zoo Visit
Onsite Zoo Visit
- Must complete step 3 to attend
- March (You will choose ONE date to attend)
- Saturday, March 7 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
- Tuesday, March 10 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
- Wednesday, March 11 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Step 5: Begin Volunteering!
- After all onboarding steps have been completed, you can begin volunteering
Step 6: Onsite Training
- Complete training during first volunteer shift
