Volunteer
Want to Help Us Make a Difference? Volunteer!
Whether you are interested in the environment, conservation of animal habitats, or endangered species, or you like to reach out to others to teach them about these subjects, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium and Wildlife Safari Park have a variety of volunteer opportunities that may be just for you. Spend time with like-minded individuals while helping the Zoo accomplish its many goals by becoming a Zoo Volunteer.
Become a Volunteer
Our volunteer roles are meaningful, support-focused opportunities that make a real difference in helping the Zoo thrive. While volunteers do not handle or have direct physical interaction with animals, every role contributes to creating an exceptional experience for our guests and helps ensure the health, safety, and well-being of both our animals and volunteers.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, inspiring others, caring for our planet, and supporting Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, we’d be delighted to learn more about you!
Adult Volunteers
How Our Adult Volunteer Programs Work
We place volunteers based on current program needs, available opportunities, and the interests shared on your application. While submitting an application doesn’t guarantee immediate placement, it ensures you’re considered as opportunities become available.
Step 1: Submit Your Volunteer Interest Application
Tell us about yourself, your interests, and why you’d like to volunteer at the zoo. We can’t wait to learn more about you!
Step 2: We’ll Keep Your Application on File
Your application will remain in our volunteer applicant pool. As opportunities become available, we’ll review applications and reach out to candidates whose interests, skills, and availability are the best fit for the role.
Step 3: Join the Volunteer Team
If you’re selected for an open opportunity, we’ll invite you to complete volunteer onboarding and orientation. Once training is complete, you’ll officially become a valued member of our volunteer team, creating memorable experiences and supporting our mission every day.
Apply to Be a Volunteer
Ready to get started? Please fill out our volunteer application interest form with as much detail as possible. The more we learn about your interests, skills, and availability, the better we can match you with meaningful, mission-driven opportunities.
If you do not currently have an account, you'll be prompted to create one first.
Youth Volunteers: Zoo Crew (Grades 9-12)
About Zoo Crew
If you’re passionate about animals, curious about conservation, and excited to make a meaningful impact, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium offers youth volunteer opportunities designed to inspire personal learning, connection to the natural world and other teens like you, and hands-on learning service.
High school students are invited to explore how a world-class zoo operates, support our mission, and engage with guests.
Program descriptions, timelines, and key dates are outlined below. Grades and program placement are determined by a student’s status at the time of registration.
Zoo Crew is a year-round immersive and interactive youth volunteer program, January 1 through December 31, for dedicated high school students who are eager to support the Zoo’s mission. Zoo Crew members are comfortable working in a diverse and fast-paced environment and play an important role in educational and on-ground programs, helping create meaningful experiences for guests while continuing to grow their own knowledge and skills. You will be challenged to expand your public speaking and teamwork skills as you also grow your animal and conservation knowledge.
During the summer, Zoo Crew members may also serve as mentors for junior high-aged youth volunteers. In this role, Zoo Crew members help guide younger participants, share their knowledge, and encourage confidence in presenting information to guests.
In addition to active volunteer service shifts, Zoo Crew members participate in monthly meetings that provide ongoing learning, program updates, and opportunities to build community.
The first-year program fee is $85 for both Zoo members and non-members. After the first year, the annual fee is $40 for both members and non-members.
Applications are open through September 30.
Ready to make a difference, meet new friends, and be part of something wild? Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Make Sure You’re Eligible
Zoo Crew is open to students who are currently enrolled in grades 9-12 at the time they apply.
Step 2: Submit Your Interest Form
Complete the online Zoo Crew Interest Form and tell us a little about yourself, your interests, and why you’d love to be part of Zoo Crew.
Step 3: Watch Your Inbox
Beginning October 1, our team will review all applications and select candidates for the next phase of the process. If you’re selected, we’ll contact you using the email or phone number you provided with details about the next steps.
We can’t wait to meet the next generation of Zoo Crew volunteers!
Youth Volunteers - Jr Crew (Grades 7-8)
Thanks for an amazing summer!
Thank you to all of our incredible Jr Crew volunteers for making the 2026 season such a success! Your enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication helped create memorable experiences for our guests and supported our mission all summer long.
The Jr Crew 2026 program has officially concluded, and we can’t wait to welcome a new group of volunteers next year. Applications for the 2027 Jr Crew season will open on January 5, 2027. Be sure to check back then for application details, program information, and important dates. We look forward to seeing you next summer!
Looking for Information About Our Internship Program?
Thank you for your interest in internship opportunities with Omaha Zoological Society! Internships are part of our paid staff program and are not offered through our volunteer program.
To view our open volunteer opportunities, please visit our Work Here page.