Volunteer and Internship Opportunities at The Texas Zoo
Looking for a meaningful way to support The Texas Zoo? Our volunteers, docents, and interns assist with programs, events, guest engagement, animal-care support, commissary duties, cleaning, preparation, and other important areas throughout the zoo.
All applicants must be at least 18 years old. Animal-related opportunities are based on zoo needs and require additional training and staff approval. Direct animal contact is not guaranteed.
ADULT VOLUNTEERS: AGES 18 AND OLDER
Adult volunteers support the zoo in many different ways, including special events, educational programs, guest engagement, cleaning, preparation, commissary tasks, grounds projects, and other assigned duties.
Volunteers must complete an application, orientation, required safety training, and any position-specific training. Volunteers are expected to be dependable, follow staff instructions, maintain professional conduct, and follow all zoo safety and animal-care policies.
Volunteer hours are recorded and count toward our Volunteer Rewards and Docent Advancement Program.
DOCENT ADVANCEMENT
Docents are trained volunteers who may assist with educational programs, guest engagement, animal interpretation, conservation messaging, special events, and outreach activities.
After completing 25 verified volunteer hours, volunteers may be evaluated for advancement into the docent program. Advancement is not automatic. Evaluations consider attendance, reliability, professionalism, teamwork, guest interaction, communication, safety awareness, policy compliance, program knowledge, and readiness for docent responsibilities.
Approved candidates must complete additional docent training and demonstrate the knowledge and skills required for their assigned duties before serving independently.
Start by applying as an Adult Volunteer.
GROUP VOLUNTEERS:
The Texas Zoo welcomes school, community, and corporate volunteer groups to volunteer for special events and large zoo projects. All opportunities will vary depending on the time of year, but all will take place outdoors in a fun, fast-paced atmosphere.
Group volunteering opportunities are usually scheduled in 4-hour shifts and at least 2 weeks in advance. All group volunteers must be age 13 or older, and at least one adult chaperone for every 10 volunteers under the age of 18 is required. If your group is interested, please fill out our Group Volunteer Application and return it to contactus@texaszoo.org or in person at the gift-shop. We look forward to hearing from you!
Click HERE to download the application.
JUNIOR VOLUNTEERS:
AGES 13-17
This program is aimed at young teens to gain helpful experience. Jr. Volunteers will have a structured schedule and work in many zoo areas. This will provide Jr. volunteers with a more well-rounded experience while providing valuable assistance to the zoo. Persons willing to become adult volunteers must be 13-17 years to undergo an application process. Volunteers can be scheduled over the summer, on weekends, and after school. All volunteers must attend a short orientation, wear their shirts on site, and dress appropriately.
To apply, please fill out our Youth Volunteer Application and return it to contactus@texaszoo.org or in person at the gift-shop. Once your application is received, our staff will contact you to complete the application process.
Click HERE to download the application.