Adult Volunteers

Adult Volunteer Program

We are now accepting applications for our Fall 2023 volunteer training cycle featuring an opportunity to be trained in South America/ Primate Interpretation & Learning!

Click HERE to apply! 

Would you like to learn more about Adult Volunteer opportunities at Birmingham Zoo?

Watch our 2023 Adult Volunteer Program Information Presentation recorded earlier this month to learn more about our program! 

Passcode: %QQX3@mR

We have a variety of ways that adults can volunteer at Your Zoo:

1. Special Events Volunteers – no hours requirements.

No advance training. Sign up for our special events mailing list HERE.

2. Guest Service Volunteers – engage with guests in fielding questions, wayfinding, and assisting rides staff.

         Hours required: 15 hours/ 3 month quarter

         Training Required: Guest Service, Zoo Content

3. Conservation, Science, and Research Volunteers – support mission aligned scientific inquiry and local conservation

         Hours required: 25 hours/ 3 month quarter

         Training Required: Guest Service, Zoo Content, Interpretation Basics, task-specific training

4. Animal Crews – animal area roles such as experiences and animal crews (assisting Animal Care Professionals in husbandry cleaning)

         Hours required: Crew Specific (ranging from 1/month to 1/week)

         Training Required: Guest Service, Zoo Content, Interpretation Basics, crew-specific training

5. Interpretation and Learning Volunteers – support mission aligned educational opportunities throughout the zoo sharing the stories of our animals and conservation with our guests.

         Hours required: 8 hours/ month

         Training Required: Guest Service, Zoo Content, Interpretation, area-specific content training

Basic Requirements

• Must have completed High School.

• Must be able to complete minimum monthly and quarterly hours requirements

• Must complete a background check.

• One-time $50-$75 registration fee covers background check, t-shirt, name badge and expenses, and trainings

• Must attend required trainings prior to signing up for volunteer shifts