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Zoo Volunteer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zoo New England

Part- Time Zookeeper

Boston, MA · On-site

... volunteers and others in safely working with zoo animals. · Must have the ability and willingness to enhance the knowledge and skills needed to provide professional animal care. · Must have the ...

Zoo New England

Part- Time Zookeeper

Boston, MA

Must have a valid drivers' license in good standing and be able to drive a full-size vehicle on public roads If qualified, may be asked to train volunteers and others in safely working with zoo ...

Zoo New England

Part- Time Zookeeper

Boston, MA · On-site

$19.52/hr

... volunteers and others in safely working with zoo animals. • Must have the ability and willingness to enhance the knowledge and skills needed to provide professional animal care. • Must have the ...

Brevard Zoo

Zoo Experience Advisor

Melbourne, FL · On-site

Zoo Experience Advisor Status: Part-Time, FLSA Hourly Non-Exempt Department: Guest Experience ... Working with the volunteers and other staff to ensure guests follow protocol for proper flow.

Zoo New England

Full- Time Zookeeper

Boston, MA · On-site

If qualified,maybe asked to train volunteers and others in safely working with zoo animals. * Must have the ability and willingness to enhance the knowledge and skills needed to provide professional ...

Great Plains Zoo

Zookeeper (Ungulate)

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18/hr

Join us at the Sioux Falls Zoo and Aquarium as a member of our Ungulate team! Job Summary ... volunteers and seasonal employees; however, this position does not have any direct reports. Work ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper III, Hoofstock

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Assists with training, mentoring, and may oversee and direct activities of interns, volunteers, and other area Keepers. * Assists Zoo Supervisors in the oversight of team projects. * Assists in the ...

SHERRILL HOUSE INC

Volunteer

Boston, MA

$1 - $2/hr

Attending resident outings such as (The Franklin Park Zoo, Aquarium, Castle Island and more)! * Special event support * Clerical support Please Note: This is a volunteer position and is unpaid.

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Zoo Volunteer information

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How much do zoo volunteer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for zoo volunteer in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a zoo volunteer do?

As a Zoo Volunteer, your responsibilities may include assisting with educational programs, providing information to guests, helping with animal enrichment activities, and supporting staff with daily operational tasks such as preparing animal diets or maintaining exhibits. While direct animal handling is typically limited to trained staff, volunteers play a crucial role in guest engagement and supporting behind-the-scenes work. Shifts and responsibilities can vary depending on the zoo, but most positions require a commitment to teamwork, safety, and following established protocols. Volunteering at a zoo is a great way to gain experience in animal care and education, and can sometimes lead to further opportunities within the organization.

Can you volunteer in a zoo?

Zoo volunteer positions are available for individuals interested in assisting with animal care, educational programs, and visitor services. Volunteers typically need to complete an application, attend training, and commit to a set schedule, often working alongside staff in a safe environment. These roles do not usually require prior experience but may involve basic knowledge of animal welfare and safety protocols.

Why do people volunteer at zoo volunteers?

Zoo volunteers choose to volunteer to support animal care, education, and conservation efforts. They gain experience working with animals and the public, often assisting with educational programs, animal enrichment, and visitor services. Volunteering at a zoo can also provide personal fulfillment and community engagement opportunities.

What is a zoo volunteer?

A Zoo Volunteer assists with various tasks to support the zoo’s operations, animal care, and guest experience. Duties may include educating visitors, preparing animal diets, cleaning enclosures, or helping with special events. Volunteers do not handle dangerous animals but play a crucial role in conservation and public engagement. This position is usually unpaid and requires training and commitment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a zoo volunteer?

Success as a Zoo Volunteer typically requires a passion for animal welfare, a willingness to learn, and a basic understanding of animal care or environmental education. Volunteers may use radio communication devices and follow strict safety protocols, and some zoos offer training or require completion of basic orientation sessions. Strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, and the ability to engage with the public help volunteers excel in educational and support tasks. These competencies are vital for promoting guest engagement, ensuring animal safety, and supporting zoo operations effectively.

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Zoo Volunteer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoo Volunteer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Dive Volunteer Program (Unpaid)

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Kansas City, MO

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

ANIMAL CARE DIVE VOLUNTEER
DEPARTMENT
Animal Care
LOCATION
Aquariums, Farm Pond, Penguin Pools, Polar Bear Pool, and Sea Lion Pool
REPORTS TO
Dive Safety Officer
PURPOSE:
The purpose of the Dive Volunteer Program is to support the Zoo amp; Aquarium’s animals, employees, and mission. Under the direct supervision of the Dive Safety Officer and Animal Care Staff, a volunteer diver performs routine assignments involving the maintenance and care of Zoo amp; Aquarium habitats.
Multiple openings are available. Applications are being accepted for all shifts, but the greatest need is Monday-Friday. Priority will be given to applicants with weekday/open availability.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Duties
Percentage
Cleaning and general upkeep of animal habitats and surrounding areas, including but not limited to:
  • Cleaning and scrubbing pools.
  • Collecting discarded animal enrichment items.
80%
Adhering to all policies and safety regulations as stated in the Dive Safety Manual, as well as any additional procedures for the designated animal area.
10%
Accurately maintaining dive plans and logs, as well as any additional paperwork.
10%
*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo amp; Aquarium.
*All volunteers must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be evaluated to enable volunteers with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their position, absent undue hardship.
LENGTH OF APPOINTMENT:
This position must complete a minimum of 2 dives per month for a period of twelve months, totaling a minimum of 24 dives per year. After twelve months, the position may be reappointed for another twelve months at the discretion of the Dive Safety Officer.
TIME COMMITMENT:
Shifts occur daily per the Kansas City Zoo amp; Aquarium’s diving schedule. Shifts may vary seasonally and based on team needs. This volunteer position must complete a minimum of 2 shifts per month during their appointment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Must have and maintain an Open Water Certification from an internationally recognized organization.
  • Must have completed a minimum of 20 dives; must have completed 2 dives within the past 12 months of applying.
  • Must have or be able to obtain First Aid, CPR, AED, and O2 Certifications.
  • Must pass a Kansas City Zoo amp; Aquarium Dive Physical.
  • Must pass a Kansas City Zoo amp; Aquarium Swim test and Open Water Skills Check.
  • Must be willing to dive in extreme temperatures (45⁰ F), and in the presence of animals (fish, penguins).
  • Must be willing to sign, acknowledge, and follow all necessary waivers and standard operating procedures.
  • Must be willing to complete basic animal safety courses prior to commitment.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Must pass a background screening.
  • Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
SUPPORT:
Training for this position will be provided. In addition, the Dive Safety Officer will be available for questions and assistance.
DRESS CODE:
Neutral colored pants or shorts, provided shirt, and comfortable shoes. Additionally, a properly fitted wetsuit and boots should be worn during dives.

Apply