VOLUNTEER

All Volunteers are Zoo Ambassadors

Volunteers are at the heart of Woodland Park Zoo’s mission to save animals and inspire conservation. Our dedicated volunteers serve as ambassadors, engaging with guests and fostering a deeper connection to wildlife and nature. Explore the many ways you can make a difference as part of our volunteer community!

Woodland Park Zoo is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in participating in zoo ambassador training, contact Volunteer Program staff at [email protected]

Zoo Ambassador Opportunities

Ambassador ShiftWelcome guests and enhance their visit by providing directions, answering questions, highlighting exhibits, and sharing your love for the zoo. This is the core role of a Zoo Ambassador!

Animal VisibilitySupport our Animal Welfare Science team by collecting data on animal visibility. This research helps us balance guest expectations with the highest standards of animal welfare.

Community Science - Limited openings availableCollaborate with our Wildlife Conservation Division on projects such as amphibian monitoring, bat activity trends, and more. Note: You do not need to be a Zoo Ambassador to join these efforts. Learn more on our Community Science page.

Data SquadWork with our Impact and Evaluation Team to gather vital information that informs the zoo’s programs and initiatives.

Exploration StationsEngage visitors with informal presentations on topics like animal enrichment, sustainable practices, and more.

Special EventsHelp create memorable experiences at zoo events by providing directions, engaging with guests, assisting with crafts, and more. Zoo Ambassadors are required to participate in at least two special events annually.

WildKeepersContribute to the zoo’s upkeep by assisting with physically rewarding tasks like removing invasive plants, cleaning exhibit spaces, or hauling materials.

ZoomaziumHelp young visitors learn and play by facilitating activities in our early childhood space, Zoomazium.

Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all opportunities, including short-term and seasonal roles.

Docent Opportunities

Discovery StationFacilitate exploration with themed carts featuring physical objects that encourage curiosity and inspire conservation.

Conservation Connection CartUse props to engage visitors in conversations about global conservation efforts supported by Woodland Park Zoo.

Exhibit InterpretationLead interactive discussions with visitors, using biofacts and exhibits to deepen understanding of wildlife and habitats.

Leadership Opportunities within the Volunteer Program

Once onboarded there are several Leadership opportunities available to those who are interested.

The Volunteer Leadership Team, or VLT, focuses on our volunteer community and making it a special and welcoming place for all our volunteers. They create social gatherings and educational opportunities, help design World Animal Days and more! You will find a creative and engaged team of volunteers who help make the program as special as possible.

The Docent Training Committee collaborates with staff and the larger docent community to create, improve, and lead docent training. You will find a wide range of docents with unique experiences, perspectives, and an overall passion for learning and growth within the docent community.

The Docent Council works with the Volunteer Office to foster an environment and culture that provides educational opportunities for docents and nourishes a sense of community. This council meets on a quarterly basis. You will find a group of volunteers who are advocates for docent activities and enjoy collaboration and idea generation.

The Volunteer Accessibility Advisory Caucus (VAAC) is a leadership opportunity within the Volunteer community to provide feedback and advise on ways to make Guest and Volunteer Engagement experiences more accessible and inclusive and provide specific and actionable feedback to other teams as requested.