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A woman with long, dark hair sits holding a red tablet next to a large window that looks into a Polar Bear habitat. The giant, white bear is standing next to the glass in a rocky cave, with its face parallel to the woman.

Behavioral Animal Research Volunteers

Through observations and data collection, volunteers provide critical information to our animal care teams that help shape management plans. Volunteers closely observe predetermined animals and record behaviors using a handheld tablet. Serving under the direction of curatorial and animal staff, volunteers gain insights into animal management and directly contribute to improving the lives of animals. This research is part of our overall goal to continuously assess and enhance the welfare of our animals.

Time Commitments

Volunteers should be available to commit to two shifts monthly on a recurring schedule of the same day every other week. (For example, every other Saturday, 9:30 a.m.—1:00 p.m.) 

Available shifts: March - November, 7 days a week, 9:30 am - 1:00 pm and 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Training

Requires prerequisite video training modules (discussed during the information session), followed by onsite training class on DATE AND TIME to be determined.

Age Requirement

Minimum age requirement is 18 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)
    • Wednesday, February 18 from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
    • Saturday, February 21 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 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: Training

Complete onsite training on (DATE AND TIME to be determined)

  • Must complete step 4 to proceed
  • Training will be scheduled the week after the Zoo visits have been completed

Step 6: Begin Volunteering!

After all onboarding steps have been completed, you can begin volunteering