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Volunteer Opportunities

Riverbanks is recruiting enthusiastic individuals to join our growing volunteer team.

Each year, volunteers contribute more than 23,000 hours to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Volunteering is a very important part of the mission and daily workings of the Zoo and Garden. It takes an incredible team of talented people to operate one of America’s best zoos. By volunteering you can be a part of what makes Riverbanks Zoo and Garden so remarkable!

Current Volunteer Positions (last updated on September 12, 2019)

Mammal — Farm Volunteer (Farm/Zebra Area: 4 hours a week, 6-month commitment.)

Posted: 9/12/2019

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.


Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the cleaning of animal enclosures and back up areas (sweeping, shoveling, rinsing and disinfecting) and removing trash barrels. May assist with food preparation, washing dishes, behavioral enrichment, and other special projects as needed. Maintains animal exhibits by cutting browse and removing waste material. Interacts with Riverbanks guests and cooperates within a team setting.Reports to the Senior Keeper and the Assistant Curator.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent. Must be able to bend, stoop or stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50lbs. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Commit to volunteering a minimum of 6 months for 4 hours a week. Proof of a current Tuberculin skin test is required.


Children’s Garden Horticulture Volunteer (Please apply by Friday, September 20, 2019 - Friday morning availability - 4 hours a week, 6-month commitment)

Posted: 9/6/2019

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Work with our Children’s Garden staff to assist with the planting, maintenance, and harvesting of the Vegetable Garden in Waterfall Junction. This intense gardening space grows a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs year round. Must be eager to learn about our plants, perform basic gardening duties (weeding, staking, pruning), and have the ability to demonstrate creativity and teamwork. This position works outdoors year-round, in all weather conditions. Reports to the Coordinator of Family and Garden Programs. 

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent. Be able to bend, stoop or stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50lbs. Horticulture volunteers work outdoors in all weather conditions. It is recommended that Horticulture Volunteers have an up-to-date tetanus shot. Proof of a current Tuberculin skin test is also required.

Volunteer Requirements

Review and consider if interested in volunteering:

  • Be at least 14 to volunteer with the ZooTeens program, age 16 to volunteer with special events and age 18 for other areas.
  • Complete an online Volunteer Application.
  • Pass a criminal background check.
  • Follow the Riverbanks Appearance Policy, which includes wearing khaki shorts or pants, closed-toe shoes, socks, Riverbanks uniform shirt, and ID Badge. Uniform shirts range from $6–$20 depending on size and style; Riverbanks nametag and ID are $10.
  • Show proof of a tuberculin (TB) skin test–a TB test is required annually for most volunteer areas.
  • Commit to volunteering a minimum of six months for 4 hours a week (although you are welcome to volunteer more). We will gladly accommodate any time you need to take off.
  • All associated costs are covered by volunteers and not reimbursable by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.