Animal Well-Being Internship
Please refer to the application for deadlines.
Description
The Animal Well-Being Intern position is an opportunity for college students and recent college graduates, who desire a career in animal well-being/behavioral research, to gain hands-on experience in a zoological setting. This internship will help aspiring animal professionals acquire research experience with a wide variety of species. In addition to assisting with ongoing research projects, students will complete an independent research project. Students will formulate a research question, complete a literature review, and design an ethogram and datasheets for behavioral observations.
The internship is an unpaid position.
Reports to: Animal Welfare Specialist
Specific Duties: Interns may do all or some of the following
- Animal observations and data entry
- Develop an independent project
- Write and present findings from the independent project
- Participate in seminars and lectures on animal care, animal welfare, biology, conservation, and training
- Other duties as assigned
Length and Time Commitment: Interns are assigned on a semester basis and must complete 45 hours of interning per unit to earn college credit; typically, interns earn three credits, so work a total of 135 hours per semester. Intern shift start times and duration are flexible, but must be completed on one or two days Tuesdays through Saturdays.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, in good standing (2.5/4.0 GPA), or recently graduated
- Must be able to record hours in the online Better Impact system
- Have good communication skills both written and verbal
- Able to lift at least 50 pounds and be in good physical condition
- Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions (e.g., temperature lows in the 30s and highs in the 100s; snow, rain, high winds)
- Working in areas with flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
- Ability to work independently
- Follow Reid Park Zoo safety protocol including COVID-19 policies; precautions are taken to minimize and prevent disease transmission
Training: Interns receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures and have a three to four hour training that encompasses safety protocol and procedures, the purpose of zoos, background of AZA and accreditation, animal enrichment, and guest service. Additionally, Interns receive on-the-job training by Animal Care Staff.
Dress Code: Must wear the volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo), jeans, work pants (yoga and exercise pants or leggings are not allowed), shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
If you have questions about the Internship Program, please contact Carrie Dean at 520-837-8083 or [email protected]
Submit an Application
Please refer to the application for deadlines.
Description
The Animal Care College Intern program at Reid Park Zoo is an opportunity for students interested in a zoo keeper career, or similar field, to work side-by-side with Animal Care Staff, gaining valuable pre-professional, work experience. This position contributes to the success of Reid Park Zoo by training individuals on job skills and practices relevant to a zoo keeping career, focusing on best practices, current standards and sound science, and animal welfare and husbandry.
The internship is an unpaid position.
Students with Senior, Junior, or Sophomore standing may apply.
Reports to: Animal Care Staff
Specific Duties: Interns may do all or some of the following
- Help clean habitats and off-habitat areas
- Assist with routine maintenance
- Make and give enrichment
- Diet preparation and feeding
- Behavioral observations
- Assist with public presentations
- Observe some portion of vet rounds
- Other duties as assigned
Learning Objectives:
- Learn, understand, and perform core tasks
- Understand and maintain high quality and quantity of work
- Know and understand Reid Park Zoo’s and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ missions and how they relate to staff, volunteers, guests, etc.
- Develop an awareness of zoo and aquarium career options
- Learn natural and individual history of Zoo animals
- Articulate conservation messages and actions
- Learn how to write training and enrichment plans and daily reports
- Make detailed observations using ethograms and ZooMonitor software
- Give and evaluate public presentations
Length and Time Commitment: Interns are assigned on a semester basis and must complete 135 hours of interning per semester. Intern shifts are two half days per week during the fall and spring semesters and three half days per week for the summer semester. Shifts start at 7:30am October through May and 6:30am June through September.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university
- Must be in good standing; 3.0/4.0 GPA for Seniors and Juniors or 3.5/4.0 GPA for Sophomores
- Must be able to record hours in the online Better Impact system
- General knowledge of tool use
- Ability to communicate in a positive manner with staff and other interns and volunteers
- Ability to work independently and in group settings
- Be able to follow instructions and maintain a high quantity and quality of work
- Able to remember routine tasks from one day to the next
- A major in a related field
- Previous exotic animal experience a plus but not required
- Able to be on your feet for several hours at a time with minimal to no break
- Repetitive lifting of 20-40 pounds
- Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions (e.g., temp. lows in the 30s and highs in the 100s; snow, rain, high winds)
- Working in areas with flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
- Follow Reid Park Zoo safety protocol including COVID-19 policies; precautions are taken to minimize and prevent disease transmission
- Must be able to provide proof of a current, negative TB test (at the intern’s expense)
Training: Animal Care Interns receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures and have a three to four hour training that encompasses safety protocol and procedures, the purpose of zoos, background of AZA and accreditation, animal enrichment, and guest service. Additionally, Animal Care Interns receive on-the-job training by Animal Care Staff.
Dress Code: Must wear a volunteer shirt and name tag (both provided by the Zoo), jeans, work pants, or shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam for shorts); yoga, exercise pants, and leggings are not allowed. Must wear closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
If you have questions about the Internship Program, please contact Carrie Dean at 520-837-8083 or [email protected]
Submit an Application
Due to COVID-19 precautions, we are not sure when this internship will again be available.
Description
The Education & Program Evaluation College Intern program at Reid Park Zoo is an opportunity for students interested in a zoo educator, conservation education career, or similar field, to work side-by-side with Zoo Education Staff, gaining valuable pre-professional, work experience. This position contributes to the success of Reid Park Zoo by training individuals on job skills and practices relevant to zoo education, conservation messaging, focusing on best practices, current standards, and sound science.
The internship is an unpaid position.
Students with Junior or Senior standing will be given priority over other applicants.
Reports to: Education Supervisor
Specific Duties: Interns may do all or some of the following
- Evaluate guest interactions
- Assist in signage maintenance
- Monitor guest engagement in the Zoo
- Assist with and evaluate programs and public presentations
- Help teach and evaluate camp
- Learn class and time management
- Handle and interpret education, ambassador animals
- Other duties as assigned
Length and Time Commitment: Interns are assigned on a semester basis and must complete 45 hours of interning per unit to earn college credit; typically, interns can earn up to four credits per semester, so work a total of 180 hours per semester. Intern shifts can be half or full days for the fall and spring semesters and eight-hour days during the summer semester. Shifts start between 7:30am-9:00am (dependent on the nature of the intern project and intern availability) throughout the year.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university
- Must be in good standing; 2.5/4.0 GPA
- Must be able to sign up for shifts and record hours in the Volunteer Impact system
- Ability to communicate in a positive manner with staff and other volunteers
- Be able to follow instructions and maintain a high quantity and quality of work
- Ability to work independently and in groups
- A major in an education-related field
- Classroom experience a plus but not required
- Previous small animal handling a plus but not required
- Able to be on your feet for several hours at a time with minimal to no break
- Repetitive lifting of 20-40 pounds
- Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions (e.g., temp. lows in the 30s and highs in the 100s; snow, rain, high winds)
- Working in areas with flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
- Precautions are taken to minimize and prevent disease transmission.
Training: Education Interns receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures and have a four-hour training that encompasses safety protocol and procedures, the purpose of zoos, background of AZA and accreditation, animal enrichment, and guest service. Additionally, Education Interns receive on-the-job training by Education Staff.
Dress Code: Must wear either the volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo) or a polo shirt, khaki pants, shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), or skirt (no more than two inches above the knee), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
Applications are not currently being accepted.
If you have questions about the Internship Program, please contact Carrie Dean at 520-837-8083 or [email protected]
Applications for the Fall 2023 Volunteer Docent class will be available in January 2023.
Description
Docents are volunteer educators. They work on Zoo grounds with guests of all ages, helping them to connect with wildlife and to learn about the Zoo while encouraging a commitment to the conservation of biological diversity. Docents interpret the animal population, information and artifact stations, and ambassador animals for Zoo guests. Additionally, they assist guests on grounds and help with special events.
Reports to: Volunteer Program Supervisor
Specific Duties: May do some or all of the following
- Provide guest service for Zoo guests by answering questions
- Interpret artifact stations for the public – full COVID-19 vaccination is required for this task.
- Share information about Zoo animals
- Promote the Zoo’s mission of education and conservation and the Zoo’s goal of saving wild animals and wild places
- Handle and interpret ambassador animals – full COVID-19 vaccination is required for this task.
- Lead storytime and give presentations – full COVID-19 vaccination is required for this task.
- Help with special, evening events like Boo at the Zoo and Zoo Lights
- Make animal observations
Length and Time Commitment: Docents are required to volunteer a minimum of 120 hours each year and commit to volunteer for a minimum of one year. Of the 120 hours, 20 “hours” must come from Continuing Education, by attending meetings, lectures, doing research projects, learning a new station, or learning to handle a new ambassador animal.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to work outdoors in weather extremes
- Ability to stand, walk, or sit for long periods
- Possess excellent communication skills
- Enjoy interacting with diverse age groups
- Able to take and follow directions from Zoo staff
- Possess a strong conservation ethic
- Ability to interact in a positive manner with guests, volunteers, and staff
- Full COVID-19 vaccination is required to perform interpretive station, animal handling, and storytelling tasks.
Training: There is a $45.00 fee for the training. Docent trainees attend a preliminary two-hour orientation, followed by 10-20 hours of shadowing existing Docents, culminating in a formal training. Training is conducted once a year and consists of an eight-week, 12-session course on Saturdays & Sundays in August & September. Docents are required to pass a final written exam and interpretation practical on Zoo grounds. Volunteer training covers topics such as, conservation, ornithology, mammalogy, herpetology, biological concepts, interpretation techniques, Reid Park Zoo operations, safety procedures, animal handling policies, and customer service and experience. Docents receive the Docent Handbook that contains all paperwork.
Dress Code: Docents must wear either a red or white polo shirt, khaki pants, shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), or skirts (no higher than 2 inches above the knee), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and a name tag; Docents have the option of having their name embroidered on their shirt. The uniform is at the Docent’s expense. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
Applications for the Fall 2023 Volunteer Docent class will be available in January 2023.
If you have questions about this program, please contact Carrie Dean at [email protected]
Applications for the 2023 Volunteer Zoo Crew class will be available in January 2023.
Description
Zoo Crew are teen volunteer educators. They work on Zoo grounds with guests of all ages, helping them to connect with wildlife and to learn about the Zoo while encouraging a commitment to the conservation of biological diversity. Zoo Crew volunteers interpret the animal population, information and artifact stations, and education program animals for Zoo guests. Additionally, they assist guests on grounds and help with special events.
Reports to: Volunteer Program Coordinator
Specific Duties:
- Provide guest service by answering Guests questions
- Interpret artifact stations for guests
- Share information about Zoo animals
- Promote the Zoo’s mission
- Assist at added value days and special events
- Further knowledge of Zoo animals and conservation efforts
Length and Time Commitment: Zoo Crew volunteers must complete assignments every month in addition to their volunteer hours. This is not a summer only program.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 14 years of age or entering the 9th grade
- Ability to work outdoors in weather extremes
- Ability to stand, walk, or sit for long periods
- Possess excellent communication skills
- Enjoy interacting with diverse age groups
- Able to take and follow directions from Zoo staff
- Possess a strong conservation ethic
- Ability to interact in a positive manner with guests, volunteers, and staff
Training: Zoo Crew training takes place once a year and teens are required to attend all 4 days of class. All volunteers are required to pass a final, written exam and interpretation practical. Volunteer training covers topics such as, conservation, species-specific natural history, interpretation techniques, Reid Park Zoo operations, safety procedures, and customer service and experience. Zoo Crew volunteers receive the Zoo Crew Handbook that contains all paperwork.
Dress Code: Zoo Crew Volunteers must wear either a jade or orchid t-shirt (provided by the Zoo), khaki pants, shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), or skirts (no higher than 2 inches above the knee), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and a name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
Applications for the 2023 Volunteer Zoo Crew class will be available in January 2023.
If you have questions about this program, please contact Aimee Alvira at [email protected]
Applications are currently being accepted through October 31, 2022.
Description
The Community Engagement Volunteer position is for individuals who require the assistance of an aide or job coach and for families with children between the ages of 11 and 13 years, where both the parent(s) and child(ren) or adults and aides are volunteering together on grounds. Community Engagement Volunteers provide a valuable resource for Zoo guests by interpreting one or two designated animal species or offering interpretive support for the Zoo Passport program (coming soon!).
Reports to: Volunteer Program Coordinator
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do some or all of the following
- Provide guest service by answering Guests questions
- Interpret artifact stations for guests
- Share information about Zoo animals
- Promote the Zoo’s mission of education and conservation and the Zoo’s goal of saving wild animals and wild places
- Assist at added value days and special events
Length and Time Commitment: Community Engagement Volunteers are required to commit to volunteer for a period of at least six months, volunteering a minimum of three hours per month. Additionally, volunteers must complete five continuing education units during the six-month period.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Adults must be at least 18 years of age
- Children must be at least 11 years of age
- Children must be accompanied by the adult who attended the training with them
- Ability to work outdoors in weather extremes
- Able to stand, sit, or walk for a minimum of one-hour shifts
- Able to take and follow directions from Zoo staff
- Ability to communicate in a positive manner with guests, volunteers, and staff
Training: Community Engagement Volunteers receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures and a training to review safety protocols, Zoo background and structure, species-specific natural history and conservation and education messages, interpretation skills, and guest service. Volunteers are also required to be evaluated by staff on grounds twice before they may interpret on their own without staff. All people who will be on grounds in a volunteer or assistant capacity must attend the training.
Dress Code: Must wear the volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo), and khaki pants, shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), or skirts (no higher than 2 inches above the knee), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended. Accompanying adults must either wear Zoo uniform listed above or wear business casual attire.
If you have questions about this program, please contact Aimee Alvira at [email protected]
Submit an Application
This volunteer position is currently full and postponed until further notice.
Description
Reid Park Zoo’s Nature Play Engagement volunteer facilitates engaging, child-led, unstructured, play-based learning opportunities to connect children, and their care-takers, to nature and animals. Nature Play Engagement Volunteers do NOT work with any Zoo habitat animals or animal ambassadors.
We are seeking passionate, enthusiastic individuals who value Reid Park Zoo and are willing to support and promote its mission, which is “to create inspiring memories for all by connecting people and animals to ensure the protection of wild animals and wild places.” Interested individuals should enjoy spending time engaging with children of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, and their families, and want to become more involved with the Tucson community.
Reports to: Education Specialist
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do some or all of the following
- Facilitate developmentally appropriate nature play-based opportunities for people of all ages and abilities
- Assist in the supervision, safety, and welfare of children and Zoo patrons
- Appropriately communicate and act as a liaison with Zoo staff and patrons of all ages
- Assist with the upkeep of resources and spaces
- Setup and cleanup supplies and activities before and after each shift
- Update information boards to reflect activities, locations, and times
- Other duties as assigned and associated with the facilitation of Nature Play-based activities on behalf of the Zoo
Length and Time Commitment:
- Volunteer a minimum of one year, volunteering 72 hours during the year
- Willing to work a minimum of two 3-hour shifts each month (1.5-2 hours of Nature Play engagement and 1-hour setup/cleanup per shift)
- Must be able to complete a two-hour volunteer training module and attend two mandatory 4-hour Nature Play-specific training sessions- December 4 and December 11 (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be committed to the idea that children create meaningful connections to nature through play and exploration
- Effectively support the mission and priorities of Reid Park Zoo
- Ability to stand, sit, squat, crouch, kneel, crawl, walk, and be close to the ground for long periods
- Ability to work indoors and in outdoor weather conditions (e.g., temperature lows in the 30s and highs in the 100s; in full sun)
- Working in areas where flies, mosquitoes, and other insects may be present
- Working and being on uneven surfaces/substrates including, grass, dirt, rocks, mulch, mud, sand, inclines/declines, etc.
- Ability to lift 45 pounds
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Ability to pass a background check upon selection (applicants 18 and older only)
- Ability to volunteer at least two times per month (Sunday through Saturday)
- Must be able to sign up for shifts and record hours in the Better Impact system
- Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality
- Exhibit a high level of comfort speaking with the guests, staff, and other volunteers regardless of their ages, personalities, backgrounds, etc.
- Exhibit excellent customer service
- Ability to take direction and work either independently or in groups
- Adhere to all policies described in the Reid Park Zoo’s Volunteer Handbook
- Must be flexible, patient, positive, enthusiastic, and willing to learn
Other considerations – Interest or abilities in the following:
- Environmental Education
- Early Childhood Development and Education
- Conservation Psychology and Education
- Informal Education
- Inclusion and ADA accessibility
- Fluency in more than one language is a plus
Qualifications and physical demands are not meant to deter interested and enthusiastic individuals. If you require reasonable accommodations, please reach out to see if this position is a good fit for you.
Training: Nature Play Engagement Volunteers must participate in a two-hour volunteer training module and attend the two mandatory 4-hour Nature Play specific training sessions. Volunteers will receive hard copies of the safety policies/procedures, and on-the-job training appropriate to their assignment.
Dress Code: Must wear the volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo), khaki or natural color pants or shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and name tag. Jeans, yoga, and exercise pants or leggings are not allowed. For the comfort of staff, volunteers, and animals, colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
If you have questions about this position, please contact Andrea Contreras at 520-837-8090 or [email protected]
This volunteer position is currently postponed until further notice.
Description
Animal Care Volunteer – Giraffe Area
Animal Care Volunteers work side-by-side with a zoo keeper and at times independently to help create a clean, safe, and enriching habitat for our giraffes. Volunteers will be responsible for learning what a safe and clean habitat looks like and how to maintain it. Cleaning does NOT happen around the giraffes and safety precautions must be followed.
The Animal Care Volunteer position at Reid Park Zoo serves to help Animal Care Staff with daily cleaning and maintenance of off and on habitat areas. Volunteers may work side-by-side with Animal Care Staff or work independently. Cleaning and physical labor are the main functions of this volunteer position.
Reports to: Animal Care Staff assigned to the area
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do some or all of the following
- Help clean habitats and off habitat areas
- Assist with routine maintenance
- Diet preparation, including browse
- Behavioral observations
- Assist with public presentations/interactions, e.g., giraffe encounter
- Tool cleaning
- Duties as assigned
Length and Time Commitment: Animal Care Volunteers are assigned to an area for a minimum of six months and must commit to volunteering one shift per week with no more than two absences during the six-month period. After six months, the volunteer may be released from volunteer duty, be reappointed for another six months, or assigned to another area. Shifts are 2± hours, starting at 9:00am.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Commit to a 6-month time period with no more than 2 absences
- Must be able to sign up for shifts and record hours in the Better Impact system
- General knowledge of tool use
- Ability to communicate in a positive manner with Animal Care Staff and other volunteers
- Be able to follow instructions and maintain a high quantity and quality of work
- Able to remember routine tasks from one day to the next
- Previous experience with domestic and exotic animals a plus, but not required
- Capable of lifting 20-40 pounds repetitively
- Able to be on your feet for several hours at a time with minimal to no breaks
- Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions (e.g., temp. lows in the 30s and highs in the 100s; snow, rain, high winds)
- Working in areas with flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
- Precautions are taken to minimize and prevent disease transmission.
Training: Animal Care Volunteers attend the two-hour volunteer training, receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures, and receive on-the-job training by Animal Care Staff. Based on the interview, preliminarily accepted Animal Care Volunteers are assigned one or two trial days during which the Animal Care Staff may evaluate the potential volunteer and the volunteer gets a realistic idea of the program requirements. The Animal Care Staff then either recommends or declines the applicant and if offered a volunteer position, the potential volunteer may accept or decline. If accepted as a volunteer, benchmarking standards during the first three weeks of the appointment must be met to continue as a volunteer in the animal area. Standards include, but are not limited to, quantity and quality of work, proper use and location of tools, knowledge and understanding of core tasks, attitude and dependability, and observance of safety protocols and policies.
Dress Code: Must wear the volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo), jeans, work pants (yoga and exercise pants or leggings are not allowed), shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
If you have questions about this program, please contact Carrie Dean at 520-837-8083 or [email protected]
All volunteer spots are currently filled for this position.
Description
Animal Care Volunteer – Goat Area
Animal Care Volunteers work side-by-side with a zoo keeper and other volunteers and, at times, independently to help create a clean, safe, and enriching habitat for our goat herd. Volunteers are responsible for learning what a safe and clean habitat looks like and how to maintain it. Cleaning will happen around the goats, and volunteers learn how to safely clean around the animals. Volunteers will also learn to look for signs of goat wellness (observing animals themselves, food consumption, fecal output, water consumption, etc.). Volunteers will have opportunities to interact with goats and help maintain good goat manners. Volunteers will assist with feeding and providing enrichment for the goats, and may assist keepers with goat training.
The Animal Care Volunteer position at Reid Park Zoo serves to help Animal Care Staff with daily cleaning and maintenance of night houses and habitats. Volunteers may work side-by-side with Animal Care Staff and volunteers or work independently. Cleaning and physical labor are the main functions of this volunteer position, however, volunteers have the opportunity to participate in many aspects of animal care.
Reports to: Animal Care Staff assigned to the area
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do all or some of the following
- Help clean habitats and night houses
- Assist with routine maintenance
- Diet preparation and feeding, including browse
- Animal socialization, i.e., brushing
- Behavioral observations
- Assist with public presentations/interactions, e.g., goat brushing
- Tool cleaning
- Duties as assigned
Length and Time Commitment: Goat Area Volunteers are assigned to the area for a minimum of six months and must commit to volunteering one shift per week with no more than two absences during the six-month period. After six months, the volunteer may be released from volunteer duty, be reappointed for another six months, or assigned to another area. Shifts are 2-5 hours, starting at 7:30am October through May and 6:30am June through September.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Commit to a 6-month time period with no more than 2 absences
- Must be able to record hours in the Better Impact system
- Dependable; must be able to arrive on time and ready to work
- General knowledge of tool use
- Ability to communicate in a positive manner with Animal Care Staff and other volunteers
- Be able to follow instructions and maintain a high quantity and quality of work throughout the six month period
- Able to remember routine tasks from one day to the next
- Previous experience with domestic and exotic animals a plus, but not required
- Capable of lifting 20-40 pounds repetitively
- Able to be on your feet for several hours at a time with minimal to no breaks
- Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions (e.g., temp. lows in the 30s and highs in the 100s; snow, rain, high winds)
- Working in areas with flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
- Precautions are taken to minimize and prevent disease transmission.
Training: Animal Care Volunteers complete e-learning modules, receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures, and receive on-the-job training by Animal Care Staff. Preliminarily accepted Animal Care Volunteers are assigned one or two trial days during which the Animal Care Staff evaluate the potential volunteer and the volunteer gets a realistic idea of the program requirements. The Animal Care Staff then either recommends or declines the applicant and if offered a volunteer position, the potential volunteer may accept or decline. If accepted as a volunteer, benchmarking standards during the first three weeks of the appointment must be met to continue as a volunteer in the animal area. Standards include, but are not limited to, quantity and quality of work, proper use and location of tools, knowledge and understanding of core tasks, attitude and dependability, and observance of safety protocols and policies.
Dress Code: Must wear the volunteer shirt and name tag (provided by the Zoo), jeans, work pants (yoga and exercise pants or leggings are not allowed), shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), and closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
If you have questions about this program, please contact Carrie Dean at 520-837-8083 or [email protected]
All volunteer spots are currently filled for this position.
Description
The Elephant Care Center Volunteer position at Reid Park Zoo provides an opportunity for individuals to shadow and work side-by-side with an elephant keeper. Volunteering in the elephant care facility gives volunteers the opportunity to learn how zoos care for and enrich elephants. While helping, volunteers will learn about elephant natural history, anatomy, social hierarchies, positive reinforcement training, and about our individual animals. Cleaning and physical labor are the main functions of this volunteer position.
Reports to: Elephant Care Supervisor
Specific Duties: Volunteers can expect to do some or all of the following
- Help clean exhibit and elephant care facility
- Assist with routine maintenance of exhibits (watering mud wallows)
- Moving or building log piles
- Exchange and stuff toys with designated food items
- Make enrichment items
- Assist with diet organization and stocking
- Set out feed for animals in paddocks and barn
- Observe elephants and document for health, social interactions, and enrichment use
- Assist with crowd control at elephant training sessions
- Assist with tool clean up
- Sort and stack browse
Volunteers will NOT work directly with the elephants. From a safe distance (no exceptions), volunteers will have the opportunity to observe keepers working with elephants.
Length and Time Commitment: Elephant Care Center Volunteers are required to commit to volunteer one half-day per week for a minimum of six months with no more than two absences in that six-month period. After six months, the volunteer may be released from volunteer duty, be reappointed for another six months, or assigned to another area. Shifts start at 7:00am October through May and 6:30am June through September.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
The Elephant Volunteer position is physically and mentally demanding. Applicants must be able to do the following to be considered for the position:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Work one morning a week with only one break in the morning
- Commit to a six month time period with no more than two absences
- Be able to work on your feet all morning
- Repetitive lifting of a minimum of 40 pounds
- Be able to work in summer heat and winter cold (outdoor conditions)
- Be able to work around flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
- Be able to follow directions well
- Remember task routine from one week to the next
- Get along with a team of keepers
- Be able to work in a fast-paced environment
Training: Elephant Care Center Volunteers attend the two-hour volunteer orientation, receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures, and receive on-the-job training by Elephant Care Professionals. Based on the interview, preliminarily accepted Elephant Care Center volunteers are assigned one or two trial days during which the Elephant Care Professionals may evaluate the potential volunteer and the volunteer gets a realistic idea of the program requirements. The Elephant Care Supervisor then either recommends or declines the applicant and if offered a volunteer position, the potential volunteer may accept or decline. If accepted as a volunteer, benchmarking standards during the first three weeks of the appointment must be met to continue as a volunteer in the Elephant Care Center. Standards include, but are not limited to, quantity and quality of work, proper use and location of tools, knowledge and understanding of core tasks, attitude and dependability, and observance of safety protocols and policies.
Dress Code: Must wear the volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo), jeans, work pants (yoga and exercise pants or leggings are not allowed), shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
If you have questions about this program, please contact Carrie Dean at 520-837-8083 or [email protected]
All volunteer spots are currently filled for this position.
Description
The Administrative Support Volunteer position at Reid Park Zoo serves to help Administrative staff with a variety of office tasks. Exact duties are assigned based on experience.
Reports to: Dependent on placement: Director of Development, Chief Philanthropy Officer, General Curator, Executive Assistant, Finance Coordinator, Membership Coordinator, or Registrar
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do all or some of the following
- Help research and identify potential grants
- Library organization
- Data entry
- Assist with mailings
- Document sorting, filing, and shredding
- Answering phones
- Making copies
- Manning tables at events to promote Zoo volunteer programs, education programs, and upcoming events
Length and Time Commitment: Administrative Support Volunteers do not have a minimum, required, yearly time commitment. Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year on a sporadic basis. The volunteer will be contacted by staff when there are available tasks.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to stand or sit for long periods
- Attention to detail
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality
- Exhibits excellent customer service
- Strong computer skills
- Ability to take direction and work independently
Training: Administrative Support Volunteers must go through a training session and will receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures. Additionally, they will receive on-the-job training appropriate to their assignment.
Dress Code: Business casual attire (no inappropriate text or logos) and a name tag. We ask that for the comfort of staff and volunteers, that strong colognes, perfumes, and lotions not be worn.
If you have questions about this program, please email [email protected]
All volunteer spots are currently filled for this position.
Description
Marketing & Communications Volunteers provide support to the Marketing & Communications department by assisting with all aspects of storytelling and general Zoo awareness (digital and print).
Reports to: Marketing & Communication Manager
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do all or some of the following
- Contribute new ideas for content that align with department goals.
- Assist in writing and disseminating digital content (social and blog).
- Assist in writing articles for print/digital publications.
- Assist with building media catalog (photography and videos).
- Assist with organizing media catalogs and other storage systems.
- Identify and document key performance indicators to show the return on investment relating to the above content.
Length and Time Commitment: Marketing & Communications Volunteers must commit to volunteer for a minimum of one year, volunteering a minimum of 8 hours per month.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Be able to work in extreme weather conditions
- Ability to stand and walk for long periods
- Be able to work in a fast-paced environment
- Attention to detail
- Excellent communication skills
- Able to take direction and work independently
- Ability to make independent decisions to aid guests
- Available nights and weekends is a plus
Training: Marketing & Communications Volunteers will go through a training and receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures. Additionally, they will receive on-the-job training appropriate to their assignment.
Dress Code: Business casual or work attire (no inappropriate text or logos) depending on assignment and a name tag. We ask that for the comfort of guests, staff, and volunteers, that strong colognes, perfumes, and lotions not be worn.
If you have questions about this program, please email [email protected]
All volunteer spots are currently filled for this position.
Description
Volunteer Photographers serve a vital role in assisting the Marketing & Communications department by documenting daily Zoo activities as well as special visits and events.
Reports to: Marketing & Communication Manager
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do all or some of the following
- Seek out appropriate photographic subjects and opportunities
- Carry out research and preparation for a shoot
- Speak with guests and asking them to pose for photos while making them feel comfortable
- Enhance images with software, for example, color correction, cropping pictures, correcting minor faults, or moving objects around
- Capture images in varying weather conditions
- Shoot photos in various light conditions, including day and evening shots
Length and Time Commitment: Volunteer Photographers must commit to volunteer for a minimum of one year, volunteering a minimum of 4 hours per month.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to stand and walk for long periods
- Able to do repetitive lifting of 20 to 50 pounds
- Attention to detail
- Excellent communication skills
- Able to take direction and work independently
- Excellent customer service skills
- Ability to make independent decisions to aid guests
- Knowledgeable about Reid Park Zoo’s mission, history, programming and events
- Available nights and weekends is a plus
- Access to digital photography equipment and software is a plus
Training: Marketing & Communications Volunteers must attend one training session and will receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures. Additional, on-the-job training appropriate to the assignment is also given.
Dress Code: Business casual or work attire (no inappropriate text or logos) depending on assignment and a name tag. We ask that for the comfort of guests, staff, and volunteers, that strong colognes, perfumes, and lotions not be worn.
If you have questions about this program, please email [email protected]
Applications are currently being accepted through August 1, 2022.
Description
The Grounds Volunteer position provides support for Grounds Staff in creating clean and safe Zoo grounds in public and behind-the-scenes areas. Zoo grounds is the first and last impression guests have when visiting the Zoo, and volunteer efforts in maintaining a clean appearance is essential in creating an exceptional experience. This is a physically demanding position. The Grounds Volunteer position is open to organizations interested in group volunteer days.
Reports to: Grounds Supervisor
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do all or some of the following
- Clean sidewalks and easements of trash and debris
- Assist with routine maintenance
- Move large brush piles
- Rake debris and brush
- Empty trashcans
- Help with landscape projects, including trimming, tilling, mulching, etc.
- Deliver browse to habitats
- Assist with tool clean up
Length and Time Commitment: Grounds Volunteers do not have a minimum, required, yearly time commitment. Schedules are set with the volunteer’s direct supervisor.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Be able to work on your feet for long periods
- Repetitive lifting of 20 to 50 pounds
- Be able to work in extreme weather conditions
- Be able to work around flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
- Be able to follow directions well
- Remember tasks from one week to the next
- Get along with staff and volunteers
- Be able to work in a fast-paced environment
- General knowledge of tool use
Training: Grounds Volunteers must attend a two-hour training session and will receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures. Additionally, volunteers will receive on-the-job training by Grounds Staff.
Dress Code: Must wear the volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo), jeans, work pants (yoga and exercise pants or leggings are not allowed), shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed, and minimal jewelry is recommended.
If you have questions about this program, please email [email protected]
Submit an Application
This volunteer position is currently postponed until further notice.
Description
Zoo Greeters are among the first to welcome guests to the Zoo. Zoo Greeters are stationed at the entrance of the zoo and, in a positive manner, help provide Zoo guests with directions and information.
Reports to: Guest Services Manager
Specific Duties: Volunteers may do all or some of the following
- Answer guest questions on general knowledge, rules, programs, and events
- Direct guests to specific habitats
- Monitor front gates for prohibited items
- Give Zoo information, such as construction, that may affect guests’ visit
- Administer surveys
- Communicate the Zoo’s conservation messaging
Length and Time Commitment: Zoo Greeter Volunteers must commit to volunteer for a minimum of two shifts per month.
Qualifications, Physical Demands, Working Conditions:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Like interacting with children and adults
- Be able to take and follow directions
- Professionally represent the Zoo
- Able to work independently
- Ability to communicate in a positive manner with guests, volunteers, and staff
- Capable of transporting necessary carts, artifacts, signage, etc. to shift location
- Able to stand, sit, or walk for a minimum of one, two-hour shift
- Ability to work outdoors in weather extremes (e.g., temp. lows in the 30s and highs in the 100s; snow, rain, high winds)
- Working in areas with flies, mosquitoes, and other insects
Training: Zoo Greeter Volunteers attend the two-hour volunteer orientation and receive hard copies of the safety policies and procedures. Volunteers will receive additional conservation messaging training. Zoo Greeter Volunteers will shadow staff two times before being on their own in the Zoo.
Dress Code: Must wear a gray volunteer shirt (provided by the Zoo), khaki pants, shorts (minimum 5-inch inseam), or skirts (no higher than 2 inches above the knee), closed-toe and heel shoes with good traction, and a name tag. Colognes, perfumes, and strong-smelling lotions are not allowed.
If you have questions about this program, please email [email protected]
