three young girls watch a zoo docent as she shows them fish in an aquarium

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General Volunteers

Join the General Volunteer team at the L.A. Zoo and help enhance the visitor experience while supporting wildlife conservation. 

Starting Opportunities Include

  • Way-finder: Assist visitors in navigating the Zoo’s 100 acres and spotting animals.  
  • Events: Help facilitate events, through fun and meaningful activities. 
  • Enrichment Garden: Maintain “Bonnie’s Edible Garden” providing safe, non-toxic plants for animals enrichment.
  • Conservation: Support community gardens and participate in citizen scientist projects to monitor local wildlife.

Advanced opportunities include

  • Habitat Ambassador
  • World of Birds Show
  • Animal Diet Preparation 
  • Enrichment workshops

Program Information

Qualifications

  • At least 15 years of age and enjoy working with people of all ages. 
  • Commit to volunteering at least eight hours per month for at least one year.
  • Passionate about wildlife and conservation, though this role does not work directly with animals  

Special Requirements

  • Attend information meeting and interviews.
  • Complete online and in-person training. 
  • Provide proof of a negative tuberculosis test annually. 
  • Complete a fingerprint background check.

Applications

We are not accepting applications for this program at this time. Please check this page regularly for updates.

Note: All volunteers must submit an application through our website, which will be reviewed by our Volunteer Department staff. Depending on the needs of the Zoo at the time, and/or your field of interest and experience, you may be contacted for an interview. Please note, there is limited space in our program. Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive an orientation and appropriate training for specific assignments.