The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is fortunate to have an incredible community of more than 800 dedicated volunteers who share our commitment to Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.

In 2025, our volunteers contributed nearly 100,000 hours of service, averaging more than 100 hours per volunteer. Throughout the year, they helped create meaningful experiences for nearly 1.8 million guests across our animal contact areas and regions throughout the Zoo.

We are especially proud of the strength and commitment of our volunteer community. Nearly 90 percent of our volunteers return each year, reflecting the strong connection they have to our mission and the important role they play in the Zoo experience.

Because of this strong retention, we will not be adding new volunteers to the program in 2027. However, as we prepare to welcome guests to the new John F. Wolfe Aquarium in 2029, we anticipate opportunities for new volunteers to join our team beginning 2028.

We are currently not accepting applications for new volunteers. Please check back in June 2027 for more information about volunteer opportunities for 2028.

Minimum Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Must successfully complete all necessary training prior to volunteering in an animal contact area
  • Able to balance multiple assignments successfully
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Able to maintain courteous and helpful behavior
  • Able to perform volunteer duties in a team and/or individually with minimal supervision
  • Able to perform volunteer duties in varied weather conditions (i.e. heat, cold, snow or rain)
  • Maintains friendly, positive attitude toward guests
  • Able to maintain appropriate volunteer appearance
  • Able to perform volunteer duties on a flexible schedule if needed, including weekends, evenings and/or holidays
  • Able to adhere to all safety protocols
  • Able to maintain confidentiality regarding the Zoo’s animal collection when required
  • Subject to Drug-free Workplace Policy
  • Subject to criminal background check