Volunteer FAQs
What do zoo volunteers do?
Volunteers assist in nearly every department of the zoo, from educating guests to running the Petting Zoo to giving tours. Most positions allow you to observe our animals and educate our guests, and every position contributes to the success of the zoo.
Am I allowed to touch or interact with the animals when I volunteer?
The animals at the zoo are wild, and keeping animals and people separate is important for everyone’s safety. Volunteers do not have any direct contact with any of the animals, except for the Petting Zoo animals and Keeper Assistant positions.
Can I shadow a zookeeper or veterinary staff?
The volunteer department does not arrange job shadows. If you are a college student planning on a related career, we do offer a variety of internships through the Husbandry Department.
What is the zoo volunteer commitment?
This depends on the Volunteer program you are applying for. Full time volunteers are asked for a minimum one-year commitment and 6 hours a month. Summer volunteers, Garden volunteers, and Volunteens go May/June through August/September and require 4 hours a week.
Do you have seasonal volunteers?
Yes, we have three programs that take place only during the summer months. These are the Alaska Zoo Gardening Program, Summer Volunteer Program, and Volunteen Program.
Do you have group and corporate volunteer opportunities?
We offer a variety of rewarding one-time service projects throughout the year. Projects range from 2-4 hours in length. Visit our main volunteer page and look at the group volunteering option.
Do you offer court-ordered community service opportunities?
No, the zoo does not offer court-appointed community service opportunities.
What is your volunteer application process like?
The first step is to submit an online volunteer application. You will receive an email upon completion of your online application with information about the next volunteer orientation and training. Before orientation you will be invited to come in and meet the Volunteer Coordinator. This gives prospective volunteers an opportunity to learn more about the program and ask any questions. During orientation you will learn about our volunteer software and schedule your first shift, important locations around the zoo, volunteer guidelines for working with staff and interacting with zoo visitors.
What are the requirements to volunteer?
Each volunteer position has specific requirements. General requirements are as follows:
Complete application, meet with the Volunteer Coordinator, and attend orientation.
Complete required background check (for permanent year-round volunteers)
Regular attendance at assigned shifts and monthly volunteer meetings
Adherence to all zoo policies and procedures
Are volunteers often hired as paid employees?
Not necessarily. Many of our employees did start out as volunteers, and this is a great way to learn about careers with wildlife. However, joining the volunteer program will not guarantee you employment at the zoo. If you are seeking employment, please refer to the careers portion of our website to view current job openings.
What do volunteers get in return?
In appreciation of the times our volunteers give to the zoo there are a variety of rewards and perks volunteers can earn.
20% off at the zoo Gift Shop
Membership to the Alaska Zoo for those who volunteer 50 hours or more in a year
Special behind the scenes opportunities
Volunteer appreciation event