Volunteer Program
Volunteers are key to our mission of serving the community, visitors and wildlife of Alaska.
Why Volunteer?
Rewarding experiences.
Help your community.
Aid in zoo animal care.
Embrace our mission.
Expand your horizons.
Volunteer Perks:
Name badge, 20% Gift Shop discount, invitations to volunteer events, zoo membership after 50 volunteer hours in one year.
Options
Permanent (year-round)*
*We are not taking new volunteers at this time, so please check back in March 2026.
Volunteers help with these duties throughout the year: Education programs, docents, event booths, petting zoo attendant, habitat cleanup parties, mascots for events, cotton candy spinning for events and monthly animal husbandry work. Other opportunities are added as needed by the zoo.
Zoo volunteers must be age 16 or older, no exceptions.
Volunteers must have dependable internet access, as most communication is conducted via email and scheduling is managed through an online calendar. Access to a mobile device is required to use the scheduling system, and reliable transportation is necessary to fulfill volunteer commitments.
All volunteers must agree to and pass a background check to enter our program.
To apply, click on the volunteer link above and return the application to the Volunteer Coordinator. Once your complete application is received, you will be contacted by the Volunteer Coordinator. We are taking new volunteers starting in March 2026. Thank you for your interest in volunteering at The Alaska Zoo!
Group Volunteering (Limited Basis, September-May)
We have projects for scouts, students or employees. Note: Groups do not work directly with animals. Projects take place in:
Enclosure Cleaning and Maintenance: Work with a zookeeper to clean habitats or with facility staff on projects.
Enrichment: Help us make treats for animals.
Events: Lend a hand at the zoo’s public events by decorating, setting up and assisting during the events.
Fill out and return the above form to the Volunteer Coordinator.
We need at least 3 weeks notice for scheduling.
For all volunteer opportunities listed above, the final determinations made regarding a placement or scheduled request will be at the discretion of the Volunteer Coordinator. Volunteers are encouraged to be independent, with no parental supervision required while performing their duties.