General Volunteers

About the Program

Volunteers are vitally important to the Zoo. Some people love to interact with the public and educate them about the animals and the Zoo's conservation programs. Some love to garden and donate their time to the ongoing landscaping efforts. Others like to be indoors and help with filing or organizing. Yet others like to build or paint and help repair the Zoo's buildings, fences, and other structures. Whatever you love to do, we can put your time and talents to good use!

Project Types

We are looking for volunteers from around the Bay Area to help with:

Special Events

Assist the Marketing and Education staff in hosting successful and educational Zoo-wide events, including pre-planning activities, set-up, and clean-up.

Horticulture

Work with our Horticulture staff on the daily requirements of park maintenance and assist with landscape management and habitat restoration projects.

EMT

Work with our Security and Park Services staff in providing basic first aid and life support to ill or injured Zoo guests. Assist with reuniting lost children and parents.

Administration

Provide clerical support to a variety of departments such as Conservation and Membership. Projects and tasks will vary by department.

Application Process

• General Volunteer positions are for candidates age 18 and over.
• Interested candidates should complete and submit a General Volunteer Application at least 2 weeks prior to the next Volunteer Information Meeting.
• All volunteers must attend an Volunteer Information Meeting.

Volunteer Information Meetings:

Volunteer Information Meetings are held twice a year in February and September.

• These information meetings provide an overview of the Zoo and all volunteer opportunities.
• There is an optional tour of the Zoo immediately following the meeting.
• Once you have attended an information meeting and chosen an area for your volunteer service, your application will be forwarded to the appropriate department.
• You will be called for a department specific interview.
• You should expect to be contacted by that department within 2-4 weeks.

Application Forms:

If you are undecided regarding an area for your volunteer service, please download the General Volunteer Application.

If you have decided you wish to volunteer with our Animal Care Department, please download the Animal Care Volunteer Application.

Application Submission:

Completed applications can be submitted via email to docents@oaklandzoo.org, or mailed to:

Oakland Zoo Volunteer Program

PO Box 5238

Oakland, CA 94605

Contact Information

Have questions? Please download and look over our General Volunteer FAQ sheet.

You may also email Lisa O'Dwyer, Program Director, Volunteer Services at docents@oaklandzoo.org or call her at (510) 632-9525 x141.