About Volunteering
Every year, hundreds of volunteers give their time, energy, and enthusiasm to help us accomplish the important work of conserving wildlife and wild places. Volunteers can be found throughout the Zoo assisting our amazing visitors and staff. Whether you’re looking for a day of meaningful service or a lifetime relationship, you can be an important part of our family! The vast majority of our adult volunteers work with our visitors as Guest Engagement Volunteers and Exhibit Guides but there is oh so much more to discover.
Selection and training for these positions takes place only in late winter and early spring, in order to get our new classes ready in time for the rush of seasonal visitors. Other positions have deadlines as well, based on school calendars, Zoo needs, or other factors. Please check the opportunity directory for your preferred assignment, or contact us for information about when we might be adding new volunteers in a specific program.
Please note – Adult recruitment will take place during the early winter/spring of 2025
Please keep an eye on this page for information on the next recruitment
Please note: We do not arrange job shadows. Also, the Maryland Zoo does not offer court-ordered community service.
Benefits of volunteering at the Zoo:
- Free Zoo admission (for active volunteers)
- Free Zoo membership (for higher levels of service)
- Discount on purchases in Zoo gift shops
- Volunteer newsletter with wildlife news and Maryland Zoo happenings
- Invitations to Zoo Volunteer recognition events, field trips, and lectures
Volunteer qualifications:
- Friendly and outgoing
- Genuine interest in conservation of wildlife and wild places
- Ready to make and fulfill a regular hours commitment
- At least 18 years of age (for most positions) or 14-17 for Zoo teen opportunities
- Adult Volunteer Recruitment will happen in early 2025
Questions? Contact the Volunteer Department at volunteers@marylandzoo.org or 443-552-5266. Interested in a Zoo career? Click here.