Volunteer for the Oregon Zoo

Adult | Teen | Group | Internships

The Oregon Zoo has one of the largest zoo volunteer programs in the country
More than 1500 individuals volunteer more than 117,000 hours per year.

Volunteer Opportunities for Adults

lorikeet
If you love animals and enjoy working with people, the zoo is the place for you! There are more than 45 different programs to get involved with.

Our ZooGuides undergo extensive training and commit to 88 hours of service per year. You can get started by signing up to attend a short orientation.

If you cant make a long term commitment, you can still help with events or with our horticultural program. Email or call (503) 525-4273. You can also check with us if you have a special skill you would like to share with us on a short-term basis.

NOTE: Working with the animals requires special training and experience and is NOT an option for new volunteers.

Volunteer Opportunities for Teens

High School age volunteers work at the zoo year round.

ZooTeens (entering grades 9-12) work during the summer at our petting areas, tidepool, Kongo ranger station and other areas around the zoo.

Interns work in many areas around the zoo during the school year and often get school credit or fulfill their school to work requirement.

The Trillium Creek Family Farm is a new area for volunteers. Farm youth volunteers take care of the animals and lead activities for visitors year round.

ZooTeen Applications are accepted Jan. 1 - March 1

Volunteer Opportunities for Groups

group walking

We are always looking for groups who can spend a few hours or a few days helping with events, landscaping projects and mailings. The minimum age for participation is 12. For information, email or call (503) 525-4273.

Internships

The zoo has 12-week, unpaid college internships in a variety of career areas. In addition, internships for high school students can be arranged.

Volunteer Opportunities!

Volunteer Opportunities for Adults

Volunteer Opportunities for Teens

Volunteer Opportunities for Groups

Internships