Volunteer with Us
We are so grateful you would like to share your time and talent at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Volunteer applications closed on February 28, 2026. Check back in the future for more opportunities.
Volunteer
Types of Volunteer Positions
Adult volunteers serve in a wide range of roles and assignments, which fall into four main categories:
Interpretative Volunteers: Building connections to the Zoo and nature through teaching guests about animals, conservation, and more
Office Volunteers: Filing, mailing, sorting materials, and more key organizational tasks across Zoo departments
Special Events Volunteers: Assisting with the activation of events for various Zoo programs
Special Projects Volunteers: Data collection, animal observations, archival projects, and more
Frequently Asked Questions
Any additional questions? Please contact us at volunteers@brookfieldzoo.org.
Are there volunteer opportunities for children and teens?
Volunteer opportunities are not available for children younger than high-school age.
The King Conservation Science Scholars Program provides more than just volunteer opportunities: it is an interactive college and career readiness experience program open to all high school students. Our adaptable, skill-building program prepares high school students to be a change-makers through increased animal, conservation, and community awareness and educational opportunities.
Volunteer opportunities are not currently available for children younger than high-school age. Please visit our Education & Community Engagement page for information on our various learning programs for adults, children, and families.
Do you offer opportunities to work directly with animals?
Our adult volunteers do not work directly in animal care and are not involved in animal husbandry. There are limited volunteer roles that involve animal handling, and advanced training is required.
If you are currently enrolled in a university and are interested in gaining hands-on experience working with animals, consider applying for our 12-week internship with our Animal Care & Programs Team. If interested, please send an e-mail to interns@brookfieldzoo.org.
Can I have multiple volunteer roles?
Adult volunteers are recruited for a primary role and expected to serve in all assignments related to that role, with the ability to pursue additional opportunities after one year of service.
Do these roles have accessible accomodations?
Brookfield Zoo Chicago strives to offer accessible volunteer opportunities to people of all backgrounds and abilities. As such, adult volunteers can request reasonable accommodations for any role at any time.
Do you have volunteer position descriptions?
Yes, please take a look at our various job descriptions per each role.
Apply Today
The application deadline is February 28, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
