Guest Services

Volunteering on the Giraffe Deck is a rewarding experience. Volunteers share in the joy of guests having a rare, up-close animal encounter, they also have the opportunity to feed giraffes on a frequent basis and work closely with staff. They assist guests with feeding experiences, prepare and distribute browse, queue guests, and support staff as requested. 

Available Shifts: April - October, 7 days a week, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 

Applicants should be available to establish and commit to two shifts each month on a recurring schedule of the same day every other week. (For example, every other Friday). Variations from the requested schedule must be approved in advance. 

Training includes printed materials, videos, and on the job training with a mentor.

Minimum age requirement is 16 years old. Youth between the ages of 12 - 15 years old can volunteer for this assignment with their parent or legal guardian. This adult must complete all required documents, training, and be available to serve alongside the child at each scheduled shift.

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, provide information about membership, paid attractions, and 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.

Available Shifts: March - November. Wednesdays through Sundays, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Applicants should be available to establish and commit to two shifts each month on a recurring schedule. 

Training 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. Training will also offer action steps guests can take to support conservation programs and be better stewards of the earth. Zoo Host volunteers are not trained to interpret the Zoo’s plant and animal collections.

Minimum age requirement is 16 years old.

Guest Services Receptionist volunteers are front-line members of the Zoo. Volunteers answer incoming phone calls providing information regarding Zoo hours, admission prices, special events, directions, available services, picnic facilities, lost and found, etc. Receptionists also greet Zoo guests entering the Guest Services Office and often help resolve customer related issues, or direct guests to the appropriate staff person for resolution. 

Volunteers work inside the Guest Services Office and enjoy a temperature-controlled environment.

Available Shifts: March - November. Saturdays and Sundays only, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Applicants should be available to establish and commit to a recurring schedule.  

Volunteers will complete on the job training with a member of our team. Receptionists are not trained to interpret the Zoo’s plant and animal collections. 

Minimum age requirement is 18 years old.