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:
Volunteer name badge, 20% off in the Gift Shop, Discount in Coffee Shop, Invitation to Volunteer Events, membership after 50 hours in a year.
Options
Permanent (year-round)*
*We are not taking new volunteers at this time, so please check back in January 2026.
We have a need throughout the year for following: 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.
Opportunities for ages 16 and older only, no exceptions. Volunteer applicants need to be able to independently without supervision. You must have access to a mobile device to use our online calendar and reliable transportation.
To apply, click on the permanent volunteer link above and return the completed application to the Volunteer Coordinator. Once your application is received you will come in to meet the Volunteer Coordinator before attending a New Volunteer Orientation. Thank you for your interest in volunteering at The Alaska Zoo!
Group Volunteering (Limited Basis, September-May)
The zoo has projects for your scouts, students or employees. Note: Groups do not work directly with animals. Group projects take place in:
Enclosure Cleaning and Maintenance: Work with a zookeeper to clean animal habitats or with our facility staff on maintenance projects.
Enrichment: Help us make treats for animals.
Events: Lend a hand at the zoo’s public events! These opportunities include decorating and setting up for events and assisting during the events themselves.
Please fill out and return the above form to the Volunteer Coordinator. We need at least 3 weeks notice in order to schedule group volunteer requests.
For all volunteer opportunities listed above, the final determinations made regarding a volunteer’s placement in the program will be at the discretion of the Volunteer Coordinator. Volunteers are encouraged to be independent, with no parental supervision required while performing their volunteer duties.