Volunteers

If you're interested in becoming a Zoo volunteer, you'll need to fill out an online application. We interview prospective volunteers in the 3-6 weeks prior to a training class, but you can submit an application any time of the year.
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Some opportunities are seasonal, some are project-based, and some happen all year round. These opportunities might include Operations, Education, Special Events, Administrative Support and Guest Services.

Interpreters- Educate our guests about the animals at the zoo and the importance of conservation. Enrich the experience for families and school groups through informal exhibit interpretation, Zoofari Carts and animal enrichment activities.

Guest Services – Help make sure that the Zoo experience is as amazing as possible by greeting the groups that come. Volunteers are needed at the gates, outside new exhibits and at certain events to make sure the needs of our guests are met. Volunteers in Guest Services help to assure that the Zoo experience is safe and fun for all.

Special Events – Help staff with a variety of special events throughout the year. This includes fun family events such as Boo at the Zoo, Easter EGG-citement, and much more!

Animal Care* – What do zookeepers do? Find out by becoming a keeper aide. Assist in the daily cleaning, feeding and other husbandry duties for the Zoo’s education animal collection and possibly some of the hoofstock collection.

*Please note: Due to strict animal husbandry guidelines and safety issues, there is no contact or inside-exhibit work with the majority of the animals at the zoo. Remember, this is for the animals’ safety and well-being as well as yours.

Office Assistant- Volunteers are needed to assist with answering phones, admissions, filing, computer work and general clerical duties.

Much Much More! – If you have special skills or talents, let us know… there may be a place for you at the zoo.

We ask that all of our volunteers commit to a minimum of one year. However, if you are interested in volunteering for a shorter period of time, we have special events such as Boo at the Zoo, Conservation Celebration and others.

Applicants for the Zoo Crew must be at least 13 when the application is submitted. 

Not necessarily. Joining the volunteer program will not guarantee you employment at the Amarillo Zoo. If you are interested in seeking employment, please refer to the City of Amarillo website to view current job openings.

Yes, there is a $25 cost to become a volunteer. This fee covers uniform tee-shirt, manual, and name tag.

The training classes are held several times per year and are generally on the weekend. You do not have to wait for a training date to apply to the volunteer program. You can sign up at anytime throughout the year, but you must have an interview before you can attend a training class. Dates are typically posted 2-3 months before the class is held.

Due to safety for you and the animals, volunteers are not allowed to work with dangerous animals such as the lions, bears and bobcats. Volunteers in the animal care program will primarily work with our hoofstock and educational animals such as sheep, goats, donkeys, ferrets, hedgehogs, iguanas and others.