Jobs/Volunteer Opportunities: Teen Volunteers

The Zoo is an intriguing place for teens to experience animals up-close and connect with wildlife in a meaningful way. We have popular summer and year-round programs that are designed to be fun and educational while inspiring an awareness of nature and conservation action.

All Programs have a mandatory orientation. Orientations are held in the Connie and Bob Lurie Education Center, just to the left of the Main Entrance. You do not need to pay Zoo admission to access the Connie and Bob Lurie Education Center.

Teen Volunteer Requirements

  • You must attend the scheduled orientation
  • You must attend the scheduled trainings
  • You must meet the age requirements for the program
  • You must complete the application process

Volunteer Opportunities and Requirements

Zoo Crew

Volunteer on a team to restore wildlife habitat at Lake Merced and other sites around San Francisco.

Orientation: Full for the 2010-11 season. The next orientation will be in August, 2011.
Questions: (415) 753-8123 or youth@sfzoo.org.
Additional Requirements: Ages 11-14.
Program Runs September - June.
Hours: One Saturday per month from 10 a.m. -  noon.


Nature Trail

Learn to handle birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians and speak to the public about animals and conservation.

Orientation: Saturday, February 4, 2012 from 1-3 p.m. & Sunday, February 19, 2012 from 1-3 p.m. (You only need to attend one of the two Nature Trail orientations)
Questions: (415) 753-7076 or youth@sfzoo.org.
Additional Requirements: Ages 12-15 (Must be 12 by Memorial Day).
Program runs Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Hours: 2 days per week 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.


Talk on the Wild Side!

Learn to handle amazing animals like livestock and arthropods while giving informational talks to Zoo visitors. Utilize biofact carts to educate the public.

Orientation: Sunday, February 26, 2012 from 1-2 p.m.
Questions: (415) 753-8123 or youth@sfzoo.org.
Additional Requirements: Ages 14 - 17. Program runs Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Hours: 2 days per week 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.


Zoo Teacher Assistant

Help kids explore the world of animals through zoo tours, crafts, games and assist Zoo Camp teachers with activities. Gain practical work experience with children.

Orientation: Sunday, April 1, 2012 from 1-2 p.m.
Questions: (415) 753-8123 or youth@sfzoo.org.
Additional Requirements: Ages 14-17. Program runs mid-June through mid-August.
Hours: A daily half-day or full-day shift for a minimum of four weeks over the course of the summer.


Other Volunteer Opportunities

Other volunteer opportunities are available for teens who are currently volunteering in one of the listed programs.

Training: On the job training.
Questions: (415) 753-8123 or youth@sfzoo.org.
Additional Requirements: Must be 14 or older and have volunteered for more than one year.
Hours: Variable.