Volunteer Opportunities :: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Riverbanks is recruiting enthusiastic individuals to join our growing volunteer team.

Each year, volunteers contribute more than 23,000 hours to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Volunteering is a very important part of the mission and daily workings of the Zoo and Garden. It takes an incredible team of talented people to operate one of America’s best zoos. By volunteering you can be a part of what makes Riverbanks Zoo and Garden so remarkable!

Current Volunteer Positions (last updated on November 12, 2025)

Conservation Engagement Volunteer (Shifts Available: Thursday – Saturday) (January 1 – July 1, 2026)

Posted: 11/6/2025

We are seeking enthusiastic and dependable Conservation Engagement Volunteers to join our team! In this engaging role, you will connect guests to wildlife and wild places. This position will report to the Conservation Engagement Manager and Specialist.

Essential Functions:

Rotate between designated locations to engage with guests and enhance guest experience using interactive props and bio-facts.
Maintain high levels of enthusiasm and inclusion while interacting with groups and individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
Maintain a positive and professional work environment and work cooperatively as a team.

Education and Experience: The ideal candidate will have a passion for conservation and earth’s flora and fauna. Must be at least 18 years of age. This position will stand for long periods of time and work outdoors in all weather conditions.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about creating engaging experiences, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today! Submit an online volunteer application.

Volunteer Requirements

Review and consider if interested in volunteering:

Be at least 14 years old to volunteer with the ZooTeens program, 18 years old for other areas, and ages vary for special events.
Complete an online Volunteer Application.
Pass a criminal background check.
Follow the Riverbanks Appearance Policy, which includes wearing khaki shorts or pants, closed-toe shoes, socks, Riverbanks uniform shirt, and ID Badge. Uniform shirts range from $6–$20 depending on size and style; Riverbanks nametag and ID are $10.
Show proof of a tuberculin (TB) skin test–a TB test is required annually for most volunteer areas.
Commit to volunteering a minimum of six months for 4 hours a week (although you are welcome to volunteer more). We will gladly accommodate any time you need to take off.
All associated costs are covered by volunteers and not reimbursable by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.