Adult Volunteer: Zoo Crew Program
Thank you for your interest in our Zoo Crew Volunteer Program at Zoo Atlanta! This program is currently at capacity, and applications have been closed. Please check back for future opportunities.
Volunteering at Zoo Atlanta is a great way to learn about conservation issues, get to know others who share your passion for wildlife, give back to our community, or just have fun!
We seek applicants who can work independently, are comfortable in a fast-paced environment, understand the role accredited zoos play in wildlife conservation, and can effectively communicate Zoo Atlanta’s mission to our visitors.
Zoo Crew Servicer Opportunities
Our Zoo Crew Program is focused on service opportunities that support our Facilities, Operations, and Animal Care Teams. These opportunities tend to involve less interaction with guests. The program is designed for those interested in a longer-term commitment.
Zoo Crew Volunteers can:
- Assist in the contact yard, facilitating guest interactions with the goats and sheep and helping to keep the area clean;
- Volunteer with our Horticulture Team;
- Volunteer with our Facilities Team;
- Create enrichment items for the animals;
- Assist our Animal Care Teams as Husbandry Aides (these opportunities are available on a trimester basis, and require a weekly commitment, and direct contact with animals is not guaranteed).
ZOO CREW VOLUNTEER BENEFITS
- Opportunity to advance Zoo Atlanta’s mission and contribute to conservation
- Continuing education opportunities
- Opportunity to meet and build relationships with fellow Volunteers and staff
- Discount on Zoo Atlanta Membership
- Discount at Zoo Atlanta gift shops
- Discount at permanent food outlets during Volunteer shifts
VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS
Volunteers must:
- Be at least 18 years of age and no longer a high school student.
- Commit to six months of Volunteer service to include at least four service hours per month.
- Pay a $40 orientation fee upon acceptance into program to defray the cost of a name badge, uniform shirt, and background check.
- Provide a negative TB test.
NEXT STEPS
- Complete an online application. Online applications are screened for completeness and apparent support of Zoo Atlanta’s mission. Due to the volume of applications received, we may not be able to respond to applications that are not a fit for this program or are incomplete.
- Applicants will be asked to schedule an informal phone interview with a current Volunteer or Volunteer Programs Team member.
- Accepted applicants must complete a background check and attend an in-person orientation.
Want more information before you apply?
Are you thinking about applying to volunteer at Zoo Atlanta, but want to learn more before deciding what program is the best fit for you? Watch a recording of one of our VIRTUAL Adult Volunteer Programs Information Sessions!
This session is designed to help you learn more about our specific Adult Volunteer Programs, the types of assignments that our Volunteers do, and the many benefits of being a Zoo Atlanta Volunteer.
Please contact the Supervisor of Adult Volunteers at [email protected] if you have further questions about everything our Volunteer Programs have to offer.
Please note:
- If you require an aide or would like to have additional assistance with you while you volunteer, please let us know in your application so that we can ensure that the proper accommodations are made so that all parties receive Volunteer onboarding information.
- While there are opportunities to volunteer around animal teams and habitats, Zoo Atlanta does not guarantee any volunteer opportunities for “hands-on” experience with animals.
- Please see our Seasonal and Career opportunities for more information if that is what you are seeking to obtain.
- We do not offer one-time community court-appointed opportunities.
- We are not able to offer job shadowing opportunities.
WHICH PROGRAM IS RIGHT FOR ME?
We have three Volunteer Programs available for adults: the Education Volunteer Program, the Zoo Crew Program, and the Event Volunteer Program. Each includes different service opportunities and requirements.
- The Education Volunteer Program requires a commitment of 50 service hours per year. Volunteers focus on interacting with guests through facilitating educational experiences.
- The Zoo Crew Program is currently at capacity and closed for applications. When open, it requires a commitment of 50 service hours per year. Volunteers focus on supporting facilities, operations, and animal care.
- The Event Volunteer Program requires a commitment of 3 events per year. Volunteers assist with daytime and evening events throughout the year.
Connect With Your Wild Side #onlyzooatl