Volunteers at the Lehigh Valley Zoo are important members of the LVZoo family who help provide ‘Smart Fun’ to over 200,000 of our guests annually! A key role of volunteers is helping provide a fun and educational experience for our guests. We are looking for volunteers to help make a visit to LVZoo an experience for our guests to remember for a lifetime! Whether volunteering as a Docent, Crafts & Activities volunteer, Zoo Clean team member, or in one of our other volunteer positions, you are helping our Zoo further our mission of conservation and education.
Docents play an integral part of our volunteer program at the Lehigh Valley Zoo. Docents are specially trained volunteers who give educational talks, act as guides, assist in interactive exhibits, and are stationed throughout the zoo to provide information to guests about the zoo and our animal collection. A background in and passion for educating others about animals, conservation, and our zoo is a must! Click to read more. Collapse.
*Docent positions are long-term positions that are limited in availability and may not be a good fit for all potential volunteers. Must complete 15 hours of general volunteering before being evaluated for orientation completion*
Restrictions/Requirements
Minimum of one day per week requirement, especially during Spring/Summer season starting April through August.
Training
Must complete online orientation and complete 15 hours of general volunteering before being evaluated for promotion to Docent. Participate in initial and ongoing training.
Uniform
Our Crafts & Activities team plays an important role at the Lehigh Valley Zoo by making sure our guests, especially the younger ones, have a memorable time while visiting our zoo. Stations may include conservation messaging, to-go crafts, decorating animal enrichment, interactive games, and other animal or seasonal related crafts and activities. A passion for animals, conservation, and fun is a must! Click to read more. Collapse.
Restrictions/Requirements
This is a flexible sign up volunteering position. Must be available for full volunteer shift (9:30am – 4pm April 1 to October 31 / 9:30am-3pm November 1 – March 31).
Training
Must complete online orientation training
Uniform
Our Zoo Clean Crew is a valuable asset to the Lehigh Valley Zoo! By making sure our general zoo grounds stay clean and free of trash you are making sure our animals and guests have a safe and spotless zoo to enjoy. A passion for animals, conservation, and cleanliness is a must! Click to read more. Collapse.
Restrictions/Requirements
Typical Zoo Clean Crew shift is about 2 hours and a long or short term volunteer position.
Training
Must complete orientation training.
Our Special Events volunteer team is a fun and flexible way to help out at the Lehigh Valley Zoo! Special Events volunteers help with our larger events such as Brew at the Zoo, Zoocoustic Night, and Run Wild 5K/10K. A great opportunity for those with limited availability. A passion for animals, conservation, and our zoo is a must! Click to read more. Collapse.
Restrictions/Requirements
Time requirements will vary depending on event so please thoroughly read event description before requesting to volunteer. Must be able to work full event shift.
Training
Must complete orientation training.
Do you have experience working in construction, mechanics, plumbing, or general handiwork and have weekday availability? We are in the process of updating and beautifying our zoo grounds and structures and could use the skills of those with backgrounds in these area! Click to read more. Collapse.
How do I become a volunteer?
The first step to becoming an Lehigh Valley Zoo volunteer is to complete an online application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Those whose application is considered will receive an email from the volunteer office to set up orientation. Upon completion of their orientation, individuals invited into the volunteer program are required to complete paperwork as well as a PA criminal background check and child abuse clearance. All new volunteers must complete a general orientation that includes reading material and a quiz about policies and protocols. Some positions require additional specialized training. Individuals can start signing up for shifts once these steps are complete!
How many hours are required to volunteer? What days and times are available?
Each position has a different time requirement and level of commitment. Shifts vary depending on the needs of the zoo and staff and volunteer availability. Please refer to the position descriptions for more detailed information on service requirements and scheduling.
As a volunteer, can I be trained to handle zoo animals?
Volunteers, even those with experience, do not handle any of the zoo animals nor do they have access to exhibits. While some positions allow volunteers to work more closely alongside select animals, employees are ultimately in charge of the handling, cleanliness and welfare of all zoo animals. The Lehigh Valley Zoo does offer Animal Care and Education internships for college students wishing to gain experience in a professional zoo setting. Please review the internships & jobs page for more information.
Are there short-term volunteer positions?
While our docent position is a long-term commitment we do offer short-term opportunities with our Crafts & Activities stations and Zoo Clean Team. Please refer to position descriptions for more detailed information.
Do you accept court ordered community service?
Our volunteer program is not intended for individuals who need to complete court-mandated community service.
Will I be guaranteed a volunteer position?
There is a large demand for all of our programs and unfortunately we can not accommodate everyone who is interested. While we do not want to discourage interest in wildlife and conservation, we must have guidelines to keep our volunteer program manageable and successful.
Do I need a background check to volunteer?
If you are 18 years or older you must provide a recent background check to be considered for our volunteer program. Background checks are provided free by the state to volunteers at: http://epatch.state.pa.us
Corporate & Group Volunteer Application
General volunteer applicants must be 13 years-old or older. Docent applicants must be 16 years-old or older.
For more information, please contact Katie Lerch at klerch@lvzoo.org.