Volunteer Opportunities :: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Riverbanks is recruiting enthusiastic individuals to join our growing volunteer team.

Each year, volunteers contribute more than 23,000 hours to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Volunteering is a very important part of the mission and daily workings of the Zoo and Garden. It takes an incredible team of talented people to operate one of America’s best zoos. By volunteering you can be a part of what makes Riverbanks Zoo and Garden so remarkable!

Current Volunteer Positions (last updated on January 5, 2026)

Horticulture & Plant Production Volunteer

Posted: 1/5/2026

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on wildlife and wild places.

Responsibilities: Work with our professional horticulture staff in the Zoo and/or Botanical Garden. Assist with horticultural duties for the purpose of beautifying and maintaining gardens, exhibits, animal habitats, plant collections, and/or public displays. Must be eager to learn about our collection and have the ability to demonstrate creativity and teamwork. Works outdoors year-round, in all weather conditions with safety considerations. Some duties and learning opportunities will include working in our greenhouses and nurseries. Reports to the Greenhouse Manager and Director of Horticulture.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent. The ideal candidate will have a willingness to learn and be able to bend, stoop or stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50lbs. Horticulture volunteers work outdoors in all weather conditions, with considerations for safety. It is recommended that Horticulture Volunteers have an up-to-date tetanus shot.

Apply today! Submit an online volunteer application.

Volunteer Requirements

Review and consider if interested in volunteering:

Be at least 14 years old to volunteer with the ZooTeens program, 18 years old for other areas, and ages vary for special events.
Complete an online Volunteer Application.
Pass a criminal background check.
Follow the Riverbanks Appearance Policy, which includes wearing khaki shorts or pants, closed-toe shoes, socks, Riverbanks uniform shirt, and ID Badge. Uniform shirts range from $6–$20 depending on size and style; Riverbanks nametag and ID are $10.
Show proof of a tuberculin (TB) skin test–a TB test is required annually for most volunteer areas.
Commit to volunteering a minimum of six months for 4 hours a week (although you are welcome to volunteer more). We will gladly accommodate any time you need to take off.
All associated costs are covered by volunteers and not reimbursable by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.