Volunteer and Internship Opportunities

The Internship Program within the Animal Care, Conservation, and Research Department (ACCR) provides engaging learning experiences designed to inspire an ethic of stewardship in the next generation, stimulate interest in zoos as a viable career option, and to increase the diversity of professionals working in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) within zoos, aquariums, and in the wild.

Work alongside a keeper assisting with daily animal care: cleaning of exhibits and night houses, preparing diets, raking, hosing, making enrichment items, and much more! Want to help our Animal Care team in a different way? Become part of the Behavioral Observation Team!

Wildlife Rescue and Research Volunteers work with our Animal Welfare and Research staff in saving wildlife through rescue, recovery, and research programs both on site and in the field.

We work with a variety of community groups (corporate, school, church, service) to complete habitat restoration, animal enrichment, and landscape management projects.

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.

We are not accepting Docent Applications at this time but we do have an entry level position available that is a prerequisite to becoming a docent - Zoo Ambassador.

Work with our Horticulture staff on the daily requirements of park maintenance and assist with landscape management and habitat restoration projects.

Oakland Zoo is excited to expand its teen volunteer opportunities with the creation of four brand new internships on our Education and Maintenance teams. Teens have their choice to apply for Education, Engagement, Ambassador Animal Program, and Maintenance positions meant to inspire and build a foundation for a stronger future.

Our popular Teen Wild Guide (TWG) program is an important part of our volunteer corps consisting of young people interested in animals, conservation and our many young guests. They are motivated, friendly and have a lot of fun! Participants will be trained as interpreters in the Valley Children's Zoo, teaching visitors about animals and monitoring the goat/sheep barn. As TWGs develop within the program, they will have the opportunity to plan and participate in service learning projects, assist keepers and gain leadership experience.

Zoo Ambassadors assist guests and enhance the guest experience, providing the highest level of customer service.

Love kids, nature, and ZooCamp? We need your help! Join us as a ZooCamp Teen Assistant or Intern and spend part of your summer playing with kids, helping to lead activities, making crafts, dressing up in costumes and, of course, having fun. Teen Assistants & Interns are truly an integral part of the camp experience! We have 3 positions available, each with different roles and requirements.