Zoo Naturalists

Zoo Naturalists combine their knowledge about animals and ecology with the use of animal artifacts, exhibits and live animals to engage zoo visitors in a wildlife learning experience.

ZOO NATURALIST*  - Volunteers will be working with the public in a variety of ways, and will rotate through five areas as needed.   Minimum 4 hours per week, March  – October  (With an option to run until late November).  The five areas are:

Butterfly Exhibit – Monitor entrance and exit through this walk through exhibit as well as providing light exhibit maintenance and visitor education.

Education Stations – Engage zoo visitors with the use of animal artifacts, exhibits and live animals.

Zoo Farm – Educate visitors while assisting with animal feeding and general upkeep of the station.

Giraffe Feeding Station – Assist keeper with daily feedings by answering visitor questions, collecting money and visitor line management.

Wallaby Walkabout Exhibit - Monitor walk through of the wallaby exhibit and teach visitors about wallabies, habitat and conservation.

*Optional – Lead and assist with tours for zoo visitors and school groups.

• Must be over 18 years old
• Must commit to a minimum of 4 hours per week, March-October
• Shift times are 9am-1:00pm  or 1:00pm – 5:00pm; Monday through Sunday
• Participate in a 20 hour volunteer orientation
• Successfully complete an introductory period of 24 hours
• Pay a $35.00 training fee for manual and uniform shirt
• Submit an application and accept offered position after an interview
• Abide by all policies in the Volunteer Handbook
• Enjoy working with people of all ages
• Desire to further develop customer service, public speaking, and teaching skills (training provided)
• Interested in educating public about wildlife conservation
• Must submit a negative TB test at own expense annually
• Submit to a Federal background check

• Friends of Zoo Boise Annual Pass – volunteers are eligible after a 24-hour introductory period
• Unlimited admission to Zoo Boise for extent of active volunteer service
• Reduced rates on Family and Grandparent passes
• Free or reduced admission to many other participating zoos
• Subscription to Animal Tales newsletter and a subscription to our biweekly e-newsletter
• Exclusive entrance to signature events: Easter EGGstravaganza, Zoo Daze & Boo at the Zoo
• Discounts on education programs and gift shop or food café purchases
• Zoo Boise day passes - Volunteers can receive one day pass for every 15 volunteer hours completed