Inspire and Educate! Docents are a passionate and dedicated group of adult volunteers age 18 and older. They are on the front line with our visitors, teaching them about our animals and conservation, helping with special events, and enhancing the visitor experience.

Ever wonder what it is like to care for a giraffe, alligator, hornbill or hyena? If you are interested in learning about animal husbandry then volunteering or interning for Oakland Zoo's Animal Care department could be for you. We are looking for hard working individuals age 18 and older who respect animals and don't mind getting dirty. So break out those work boots and khaki pants and come to one of our volunteer orientations. Animal Care volunteers and interns are an important part of providing the best care we care for our animals. Come be part of the experience.

We are always on the lookout for adults age 18 and older who want to volunteer their time and talents to help the animals of the Oakland Zoo. You can train to volunteer in any of the following departments: Special Events, Education, Horticulture, EMT, Conservation, and Administration.

Oakland Zoo welcomes young people ages 13 and up who are interested in volunteering, in one of our well-regarded teen programs. Please refer to each program for descriptions of duties, application and orientation processes and frequently asked questions.

Oakland Zoo works with a variety of community groups (corporate, school, church, service, family) to complete habitat restoration, enrichment, and landscape management projects. We want to ensure that our animals are comfortable in their habitats and our grounds are well maintained. Staff and volunteers work together to make this happen! "Habitat restoration" might sound like a fancy way of saying weeding, but many of those weeds are like candy to our animals. They literally feast on the fruits for your labor.

The East Bay Professionals for Oakland Zoo offers great opportunities to meet and mingle with local like-minded people dedicated to wildlife, conservation, and education. Members serve as Zoo advocates in the community, participating in events that raise awareness and funds, and help support the Zoo's mission of conservation, education, and family entertainment.

Thank you for volunteering at the Oakland Zoo. We really appreciate and value your time and dedication!
If you are a current volunteer you can click here to log your hours.