Volunteer Applications Are Now Open!
Since 1972, Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Adult Volunteer Program has aimed to:
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• Engage adults over 18 who are passionate about animals and nature in meaningful volunteer service that increases their level of conservation literacy and action.
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• Build a strong community of conservation leaders and advocates for wildlife and nature.
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• Connect with the public through engaging events, projects, and educational experiences that demonstrate comprehension of BZC’s programs, animals, and guest amenities.
Adult volunteers serve in a wide range of roles and assignments, which fall into four main categories:
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• Interpretative Volunteers: Building connections to the Zoo and nature through teaching guests about animals, conservation, and more
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• Office Volunteers: Filing, mailing, sorting materials, and more key organizational tasks across Zoo departments
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• Special Events Volunteers: Assisting with the activation of events for various Zoo programs
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• Special Projects Volunteers: Data collection, animal observations, archival projects, and more
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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.
In 2026, Brookfield Zoo Chicago is recruiting for the following:
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12 Early Childhood Docents (Interpretative Volunteer Role)
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12 Exploration Guides (Interpretative Volunteer Role)
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14 Marketing Events Greeters (Special Events Volunteer Role)
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12 Roving Ambassadors (Interpretative Volunteer Role)
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If you match the qualifications for one of these roles, please apply through the button below by February 28, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. If positions are filled before the deadline, they will be removed from the website. Due to a high volume of applications and limited staff capacity, please allow up to 2 weeks for a response.
APPLY NOW
Volunteer Login
Are you an existing volunteer of Brookfield Zoo Chicago? Log in to VICNET at the button below.
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More Opportunities
KING CONSERVATION SCIENCE SCHOLAR PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
The King Conservation Science Scholars Program 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-maker through increased animal, conservation, and community awareness and educational opportunities. For more information, click HERE.
VOLUNTEERING FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Volunteer opportunities are not available for children younger than high-school age, and for families. However, please click here for information on our various learning programs for adults, children, and families. Enjoy!
WORKING DIRECTLY WITH ANIMALS
Our volunteers do not work directly in animal care, and are not involved in animal husbandry. If you are interested in gaining hands-on experience working with animals for your career development, and are currently enrolled in a university degree program, consider our 12-week Internship Program. If interested, please click here or send an e-mail to interns@brookfieldzoo.org.
PAID POSITIONS
If you are looking for paid job opportunities, please apply on our Job Board instead.
Questions?
Please contact us at volunteers@brookfieldzoo.org.
BZC 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.
Thank you for your interest in becoming a community conservation leader for Brookfield Zoo Chicago!