Volunteer Opportunities

Caring. Committed. Passionate. Powerful. The members of Denver Zoo's volunteer community are as dynamic and diverse as the city itself—and as much a part of our family as our wonderful staff and our 3,000 wild animals. Of all the volunteer opportunities in Denver, this is one of the most exciting and rewarding. Interested? Learn how to join forces with Colorado's oldest and most dedicated advocate for wild animals, below!

Guest Experience Volunteer

Calling all nature nerds, animal advocates—and anyone who has always dreamed of helping people connect with the wonder of wildlife. This is the ultimate Denver volunteer opportunity!

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Animal Care Volunteer

For the right person, a so-called "dirty job" can be a dream job! If you're looking for a Denver volunteer opportunity that involves wild animals, you may have found your people.

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Horticulture Volunteer

Do you like plants at least as much—if not more—than people? Check out our Denver volunteer opportunities in horticulture, and join the dedicated folks who keep our campus beautiful.

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Nutrition Center Volunteer

Searching for a Denver volunteer opportunity that puts your meal-prep skills to good use? Each of our 500+ species has a unique nutrition plan—and we can always use an extra hand.

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volunteer Requirements 

DENVER ZOO VOLUNTEERS MUST:

  • Make a one-year minimum commitment, with at least 50 hours of service
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Be able to attend one full day of
    on-campus orientation (Zoo U)
  • Be committed to providing our guests with the highest standard service
  • Be passionate about educating people of all ages and abilities about wildlife, conservation and the natural world
  • Be friendly, outgoing and dependable
  • Be able to pay a $35 application fee which includes your Zoo U orientation and your Denver Zoo uniform shirt. (scholarship support available upon request)
  • Become a Denver Zoo member

Volunteer at the Zoo

In addition to enjoying the most sought-after volunteer opportunity in Denver, Denver Zoo volunteers are absolutely essential to our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations. As a non-profit organization, we rely on the generosity and expertise of this kind and committed community to help our guests connect with the wonder of wildlife, enhance each visit with vital education—and ignite a passion for conservation in all. Ready to make a difference for wild animals and wild places? Follow the simple steps below!

 

1. COMPLETE AN APPLICATION.

Applications are currently closed and will reopen in February of 2023. Please check back here for updates!

2. RECEIVE Your ACCEPTANCE LETTER.

If you are accepted into the Denver Zoo Volunteer program, you will receive an acceptance letter requesting you to accept your new volunteer position and team placement.

3. Pass Your BACKGROUND CHECK & submit TRAINING FEES.

All adult volunteers are required to pass a criminal background check and submit a $35 training fee. Scholarship support is available on request.

4. ATTEND our one-day "Zoo u" ORIENTATION program.

All adult volunteers must attend a one-day orientation called Zoo U. This program will give you an introduction to Denver Zoo, our mission, Adult Volunteer Program staff, and give you the foundational skills* necessary to deliver the highest standard of guest experience.

For more information, contact Kelly Bockert at (720) 337-1546 or kbockert@denverzoo.org

*NOTE: Depending upon your assignment, additional job-specific training may be required.

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