Cameron Park Zoo, Waco, Texas

ADULT VOLUNTEERS


We have a wide range of volunteer opportunities available to adults 18 and older. An application with a resume, background check, interview, and training are required.

Qualifications:

  • You need to be genuinely interested in and care about people, animals, nature and conservation.
  • Volunteers need to be friendly and outgoing as well as enthusiastic and dependable.
  • You should be committed to providing zoo guests the highest standards of customer service.
  • Be able to contribute a minimum of 48 hours a year (4 hours a month).
  • Willing to attend a required 3-hour Volunteer Orientation.

Benefits:

  • The satisfaction of a meaningful contribution of service to a conservation center.
  • Expand your social circle - make new connections and new friends.
  • Good for your health and mental well-being.
  • A fun experience every time you volunteer at the Zoo.
  • Continuing education opportunities will benefit you both professionally and personally.
  • 10% discount at the Zoo Cafe and Zootique.
  • Preview new exhibits before the general public.
  • Annual appreciation dinner and presentation of service awards.

Positions & Descriptions:

Training information

Volunteer application

Mail completed applications to:
Cameron Park Zoo
Education Department
1701 N. 4th Street
Waco, TX 76707

Please call the Education Department for more information:
750-8467 or 750-8466.


TEEN VOLUNTEERS ~ Zoo Crew

Zoo Crew is our teen volunteer program for 14-18 year olds. Volunteers must be 14 years old by May 1st. Applications are accepted once a year, and must be received by April 9, 2010. Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted to determine acceptance into the program. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. A background check, interview, and training is required; along with a committment of 60 volunteer hours during the summer. Zoo Crew assists the Education Department with Zoo Camp, classes, and education animal care. Family support is extremely important.

Meetings and training are MANDATORY, no exceptions.
Parents Only Meeting--May 11, 2010, 6:00 p.m.
Overnight Training for Zoo Crew--May 14-15, 2010

Click here for a 2010 Zoo Crew application in Word format.


GROUP VOLUNTEERS

Do you have a group that would love to volunteer at the zoo? There are great opportunities for your group to help out at the zoo.
  • Outdoor Projects ~ raking leaves, moving soil, rocks, gravel, planting shrubs, flowers, etc. Each project will vary depending on the needs of the Zoo and the interest of the group.

  • Indoor Projects ~ preparing materials for programs, sorting items for special events, stuffing event bags, etc. The exact project will vary due to the time of the year and needs of the Zoo.

  • Special Events ~ helping with Zoo event setup, greeting guests, manning craft and activity tables, providing event support, cleanup, etc. Major events throughout the year. Activities vary greatly but each offers your group the opportunity to interact with Zoo guests.

Each group will be required to complete a Group Volunteer application.


INTERNSHIPS

The goal of the Cameron Park Zoo Education Department's internship program is to provide pre-professional, experiential learning opportunities for dedicated students interested in environmental issues/ethics, informal education, visitor studies, communication and community service. Through participation in the program, students will assist Education staff with a variety of tasks including interactions with Zoo visitors, which promote the fulfillment of the Zoo's mission to "promote conservation awareness and cultural enrichment through education and recreation. To be a survival center for native and exotic animal species and an active community partner in economic development through tourism."

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Submission of resume with cover letter and completed application
  • Copy of current college transcript
  • Letter of reference from a professor or advisor
  • Signed Liability Release form
  • Pre-service interview with Zoo's Curator of Education
  • Dependable transportation
  • Positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Availability of at least 12 hours per week / 12 week minimum preferred

General Information and Internship Application


JOB OPPORTUNITIES

We currently have a job opening in our Zootique.
You must be 18 years of age and willing to work weekends.
Please click here for an Application.
Please contact Frances Gonce, Gift Shop Manager, at 750-8420 for further information.

Click here to view the City of Waco's website for job vacancies at the zoo.

 

©2003 by Cameron Park Zoological and Botanical Society. All rights reserved.
1701 North 4th Street | Waco, Texas 76707 | (254) 750-8400
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