Volunteer Opportunities :: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

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 March 3, 2025)

Wine Tasting Volunteer (Friday April 25th, 5:00pm-10:00pm)

Posted: 3/3/2025

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is currently seeking volunteers for our annual Wine Tasting event in the Botanical Gardens.

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

This year’s event is Friday, April 25th. Volunteer Sign in is from 5:00-6:00pm. Volunteers will be dismissed after the event ends, approximately 10:00pm.

Volunteers will be responsible for pouring samples, restocking ice and glasses, and interacting with guests.

We need approximately 100 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 complimentary tickets to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden!

Once your spots are confirmed, we will respond back with the 2025 Wine Tasting application and instruction sheet. Space is limited and this event fills up fast! Volunteer requests will be accepted on a first come, first served basis.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could help me spread the word about this exciting experience. We look forward to working with you!

Apply today! Submit an online volunteer application.

Habitat Horticulture & Botanical Garden Volunteer (4 hours weekly, Tuesday and/or Thursday Mornings Only)

Posted: 1/27/2025

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that have a lasting impact on wildlife and wild places.

Responsibilities: Work with our professional horticulture staff in the Zoo and/or Botanical Garden. Assist with horticultural duties for the purpose of beautifying and maintaining gardens, exhibits, animal habitats, plant collections, and/or public displays. Must be eager to learn about our collection and have the ability to demonstrate creativity and teamwork. Works outdoors year-round, in all weather conditions with safety considerations. Reports to the Horticulture Design and Operations Manager and Horticulture Operations Supervisor.

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, with considerations for safety. It is recommended that Horticulture Volunteers have an up-to-date tetanus shot. Proof of a current Tuberculin skin test is also required.

Apply today! Submit an online volunteer application.

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.