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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 July 10, 2018)

Small Mammal and Gorilla Volunteer (Gorilla, Kangaroo and the Riverbanks Conservation Outpost: 4 hours a week, 6 month commitment (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday openings) )

Posted: 7/10/2018
Ambassador Commitment:
Doing your part to support Riverbanks’ mission to foster appreciation and concern for all living things.

Responsibilities:
Under general supervision is responsible for the cleaning of animal enclosures and back up areas. Assists with cleaning exhibit windows, washing dishes, cleaning barns (sweeping, shoveling, rinsing and disinfecting) and removing trash barrels. Maintains animal exhibits by cutting browse, removing waste material, mixing or rotating mulch, adding substrate and watering plants. Interacts with Riverbanks guests and cooperates within a team setting. Volunteers do not have direct contact with some of the animals in our collection. 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.

Brew at the Zoo (Volunteers for this event must be at least 21 years old)

Posted: 7/6/2018

Join the 2018 Brew Crew!

Friday, August 3rd, 5:30–10:00pm

Volunteers for this event must be at least 21 years old.

What does the Brew Crew Do? Volunteers will be responsible for pouring 2oz samples, checking ID’s, and ensuring our guests have a positive experience at Brew!

We need approximately 125 volunteers on the night of the event, so we can easily accommodate large groups or individuals that want to join in on the fun!  Volunteers who work the event will receive 2 complementary tickets to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. 

What’s Required? All Brew Crew members must be able to volunteer from 5:30pm until approximately 10:00pm. Sign-in starts at 5:30pm.  All volunteers must wear black pants or shorts (no jeans please) and a plain black shirt. Volunteers must be reliable, cheerful, service-oriented, and able to follow directions.

How do we get registered? Contact Tracy Hughes at thughes@riverbanks.org. Please let me know how many people will be participating. Once I confirm your spot(s), I will respond back with the 2018 Brew application and Instruction sheet. Space is limited and this event fills up fast! Volunteer requests will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.

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.