ZooGuides are adults who match their skills and enthusiasm with the zoo's needs. As part of the zoo's most extensive volunteer program, ZooGuides work throughout the zoo and offsite.

ZooGuides are made up of retired professionals, college students, people changing careers, freelancers, and more. If you enjoy contributing, learning and making a difference, you've got what it takes to be a ZooGuide.

ZooGuides are adults ages 18 and older who:

have completed high school or equivalent

can attend 34 hours of training (28 hrs classroom, 6 hrs program observations)

can volunteer at the zoo for an average of one shift per week

Your opportunities for the first 6 months:

ZooGuides work:

on zoo grounds sharing the zoo’s story of its animals, animal welfare and conservation through meaningful engagement with guests

on the volunteer enrichment team, working on animal enrichment items

on conservation activities such as habitat restoration and wildlife surveys in nearby wildlife refuges and natural areas.

in providing support for the zoo’s annual and seasonal events.

Opportunities after 6 months:

with landscapers, working on horticultural projects

educational outreach

onsite educational classes

school group ambassadors

Opportunities after 1 year of active volunteering:

specialized presentations on grounds

in animal care, helping prepare food and cleaning animal habitats

in research, conducting animal behavior observations and visitor surveys

volunteer safety team

Many ZooGuides say they receive as much or more than they give.

ZooGuides receive:

a meaningful volunteer opportunity

a chance to learn new skills

opportunities to learn and keep up to date on trends in zoos, particularly the Oregon Zoo

camaraderie, working as part of a dedicated team of volunteers

free zoo admission throughout the year

free parking while volunteering

discounted Oregon Zoo membership

discounts in the zoo's restaurants and gift shop

a monthly volunteer newsletter

How to apply:

We are not currently recruiting for this program.

Questions?

Email the Volunteer Coordinator