Volunteer at the zoo
 Be a part of the experience!
Program Information
Knoxville Zoo's Volunteer Program can be an exciting experience for people of all ages. Adult Volunteers and Youth Volunteers, alike, play a major role in guest relations, zoo education, special events, and many other exciting areas of the zoo!
The application process begins with a Volunteer Fair held in February. This provides an opportunity for interested individuals to learn more about the Volunteer Program.
We strongly encourage potential volunteers to attend the Volunteer Fair, but it is not mandatory. Here you can pick up an application and learn how to effectively complete it in order to increase your chances of being selected into this highly competitive program. A limited number of spaces are available for the Youth Volunteer Program.
Program Dates
Youth Volunteer training has been completed for the Spring.
We will have a training for homeschoolers in the fall. Application packets are due no later than Sept. 18. Youth must be 13 years old by Oct. 1 in order to be considered.
Adult Volunteer class is scheduled for Sept. 6, 7 and 13.
What Do Volunteers Do?
There are many exciting things to do at Knoxville Zoo. A few examples of some of our Volunteer opportunities include:
Special Events: |
Help staff work an array of educational and fundraising events throughout the year such as Zoo Camp, Boo! at the Zoo, and Easter Eggcitement. |
Educational Programs: |
Assist staff with classes and programs both on and off zoo grounds. Enrich learning experiences for our zoo guests or help take the zoo to schools, churches and other groups. |
Interpreters: |
Share with guests the story of our animals and the importance of their conservation using a variety of biofacts. |
Much Much More! |
If you have special skills or talents, let us know…there are many and varied areas of the zoo that need YOUR help! |
Please note: Due to strict animal husbandry guidelines and safety issues, there is no contact or inside-exhibit work with the majority of the animals at the zoo. Remember, this is for the animals’ safety and well being as well as yours.
Fees and Requirements
- If you are not already a Zoo member, you must become and remain a member throughout your career as a Knoxville Zoo Volunteer. Contact the Membership Department at 865.637.5331 x305 to purchase a membership, or purchase by clicking here.
- Applicants to the Youth Volunteer Program must be 13-17 years of age. Training is held in the spring of each year.
- Adults 18 and over will be considered for the Adult Volunteer Program. Training is held in both the spring and the fall.
- For the Youth Volunteer Program, fill out and return the Youth Volunteer Form. For the Adult Volunteer Program, fill out and return the Adult Volunteer Form.
- Once accepted into the program, Adult Volunteers must complete a 24-hour workshop (8-hours for Youth Volunteers) and pay a one-time training fee. This one-time fee includes two Volunteer shirts, name tag, manual, training materials, staff time, mailing costs, and use of the zoo's facilities.
- Each Volunteer must be prepared to commit to at least one year of service. At least 50 hours of volunteering must be completed during this time.
- To keep Volunteers updated and current on all information, required monthly meetings are held the third Tuesday of every month at
7 p.m.
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