Dakota Zoo Volunteers
The Dakota Zoo is always seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help us advance our mission to instill and inspire a better understanding and appreciate for animals and nature.
Volunteer Areas
Guest Services - Help create a great experience for our guests! Greet guests, provide information, assist in membership hut, help with special events, direct visitors, assist with train rides and tours.
Grounds Keeping - Help keep the zoo looking beautiful! Water and weed planters and flower beds, assist with light duties in nursing den and bathrooms, help clean up zoo grounds, trim and prepare browse for animal enrichment.
Clerical/Administrative - Aid in office duties including assembling membership packets, folding mailings, membership data entry, photo organization, light cleaning duties, assist with event preparations.
Animal Care Support* - Assist animal care staff with diet preparation, washing dishes, preparing enrichment, exhibit preparation, and light cleaning duties. Required proof of negative TB test.
Conservation/Education - Promote education and conservation events with guests, assist with zoo camps and education programs, interact with guests by presenting animal facts, conservation goals, and relevant information.
Maintenance - Assist with projects around the zoo. Projects may include painting, fixing, minor repairs, and miscellaneous carpentry, welding, and building projects.
We also have additional opportunities for:
- Zoo Event Volunteers
- Group Volunteering
- Community Service
Please download or stop by the Dakota Zoo office for an application. A background check may be required for certain positions. For more information please call us at 701-223-7543.
Completed applications can be emailed, mailed, or dropped off at the admissions office.
*All volunteer positions are considered “hands-off” and do not involve direct handling of our animals. We encourage you to volunteer with us only if you are comfortable with this policy. We appreciate your understanding.