Conservation Volunteers

About the Program

Conservation Volunteers work at our animal stations to interpret our conservation initiatives to Zoo guests of all ages! Choose between our Quarters for Conservation or Beads for Chimps stations, as well as special events such as Earth Day and other fundraising events.

Thanks to our Conservation Volunteers, our Zoo guests truly understand the global impact our Zoo makes for animals.

Requirements

Requirements for all Conservation Volunteers:

• Age 18 or older.
• Commit to regular attendance of two consecutive hours per week, weekends preferred.
• Commit to volunteering for at least six months.
• Pay the program fee which includes a uniform t-shirt, Conservation Volunteer Handbook, and other training and informational materials.

• Abide by the procedures and expectations outlined in the Oakland Zoo Volunteer Manual including those set by the Animal Care, Conservation, and Research Department (ACCR).
• All volunteers are required to enter their volunteer hours in our volunteer tracking system within a few days of your shift.

Five Steps to Becoming a Conservation Volunteer

Ensure you meet all of the requirements of becoming a Conservation Volunteer and can commit to at least one 2-hour shift per week for 6 months. Download and complete the Oakland Zoo Conservation Volunteer Application.

Step 1—Apply

• Applications are accepted throughout the year.
• Submit your completed application via email or mail to: Oakland Zoo Volunteer Program, P.O. Box 5238, Oakland, CA 94605.

Step 2—Process

After we receive your application, you will be sent "Next Steps" information. This will consist of a link to review a PowerPoint presentation, complete a couple of forms to be returned to us along with some medical information (proof of Tetanus vaccination in last 10 years, proof of Covid vaccination and first booster). When all of this is received, your application will then go to Conservation for review.

Step 3—Conservation Interview

You will be contacted for an interview. If you are a match for our needs, you will be accepted as a new volunteer and invited to a Conservation Volunteer Orientation.  

Step 4—Conservation Volunteer Orientation

Conservation Volunteer Orientations are typically one hour.  During the Orientation you will learn about the Conservation Department, volunteer policies and procedures, and then be given time for a self-guided tour of the Zoo. Your $20 non-refundable volunteer fee is collected and a t-shirt is provided.

Step 5—Volunteer!

Once you have attended the Conservation Volunteer Orientation, you begin training and working at your assigned station. Additional information regarding station training will be given during Orientation.

Questions?

Email us if you have additional questions regarding our Conservation Volunteer Program.