Volunteer

With volunteer opportunities available for both youth and adults, Zoo Knoxville is a Wildly Fun place to serve! Join our dedicated volunteer team and lend a helping hand with conservation projects, educational programs, and guest engagement.

2026 Zoo Knoxville Youth Volunteer Program

The Zoo Knoxville Youth Volunteer Program is designed for students ages 13-17 that have an interest in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. Through their participation, youth volunteers will receive hands-on experience in the fields of animal care, zoology, and conservation. They will also work to develop leadership, communication, and customer service skills, all while learning advocacy for themselves and for their environment. This program is a great learning experience, as well as a great addition to a college/career resume!

Zoo Knoxville Youth Volunteer Program Requirements:

Must be 13 years of age or older by April 1, 2026
Provide a one-time program fee of $50. Fee waivers may be available upon request.
Serve a minimum of 50 hours per calendar year.
Attend monthly volunteer meetings- these are currently held online via Zoom.
Maintain a Zoo Knoxville Membership. Volunteers receive a discounted membership. This does not have to be purchased until you begin volunteering.

Additional Information:

If you have any questions about the Youth Volunteer Program or the application process, please reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected]

If you would prefer a physical copy of the youth volunteer application, this can be provided along with mailing instructions. Please email [email protected].

Zoo Knoxville Adult Volunteer Program

If you love animals and sharing your passion for wildlife and wild places, the Zoo Knoxville volunteer program is perfect for you! All volunteers start as zoo ambassadors, engaging our guests by interpreting at exhibits, sharing animal information, presenting biofacts, and participating in special events and community outreach. Advanced opportunities may include keeper assistance and animal handling, if positions are available. We onboard adult volunteers in group sessions, with a few available introductory workshops throughout the year.

Zoo Knoxville Adult Volunteer Program Requirements

Must be 18 years of age or older.
Provide a one-time program fee of $75. Fee waivers may be available upon request.
Serve a minimum of 50 hours per calendar year.
Attend monthly volunteer meetings- these are currently held online via Zoom.
Maintain a Zoo Knoxville Membership. Volunteers receive a discounted membership. This does not have to be purchased until you begin volunteering.

Group Volunteer Details

Group Requirements:

Must be 16 years of age or older to be a community volunteer
Zoo Knoxville Grounds department can accommodate groups on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
There are two shifts: 8:30-11:30 a.m and 12:30-3:30
Some groups opt to do one or both shifts offered
All group members sign a liability release form prior to volunteering
Group Volunteer tasks involve picking up trash, cleaning habitat windows, weeding, trimming, mulching, bamboo removal and more.
Email zkvolunteers@zooknoxville your groups name, how many plan on coming to volunteer and which shift(s) your group wants to volunteer. We will coordinate with our grounds department.

Application Details

Interested in applying in 2026 and joining our wildly fun volunteer team? Please reach out to [email protected] for more information and a link to our online application.