Do you love animals? Do you want to help secure a future for tigers, giraffes, elephants, gorillas and other species by inspiring others? If so, consider becoming a Volunteer Zoo Ambassador.
Zoo Ambassadors walk the Zoo, greeting and assisting as many guests as possible. They are an important resource in connecting guests to wildlife and conservation. They help provide a fun and safe environment for everyone who visits the Zoo. You can make a difference, join us in securing a future for wildlife.
Requirements
- Age: 18 and older
- Time Commitment: 36 hours per year
- Qualifications: Friendly and willing to interact with the public, able to be stationary or move throughout the Zoo for up to 3 hours. There are limited opportunities for seated shifts. Willing and able to utilize technology (cell phone, Internet, email).
- Training: All new volunteers will go through a multi-part training program (mix of virtual and in-person) with two follow-up mentor sessions led by experienced Zoo volunteers.
Responsibilities
- Help visitors connect with wildlife. Help guest spot animals and inform them of special programs going on at the Zoo
- Greet guests, assist in crowd control and provide directions when needed.
- Respond informatively to guest questions and concerns. When necessary, connect guests with staff.
- Help guests gain an appreciation for wildlife by modeling respectful behavior towards the animals in the Zoo's care.
- Please note there is no animal handling or direct animal contact involved in any Zoo Ambassador activities.
Current Zoo Ambassadors may apply for other positions at the Zoo as openings arise. These include limited openings as administrative volunteers or conducting animal behavioral observations. Please note this volunteer program does not include any animal care or animal handling opportunities.
Summer 2025 recruitment for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Ambassadors has ended. Check back for future updates.