Volunteer Opportunity Details:

Under the supervision and direction of assigned zookeepers, each intern and apprentice will learn animal husbandry skills, assist in maintaining exhibit areas, observe and participate in operant conditioning, participate in the application of animal enrichment and interact with the visiting public. Interns and apprentices will learn the proper techniques for cleaning and disinfecting animal exhibits and holding areas; proper and safe handling and restraint techniques used when necessary for medical examination, routine husbandry procedures and animal transport; capture and restraint techniques; the value of both food and non-food enrichment as a way to encourage natural behaviors; proper food preparation to meet the nutritional needs of the animals; the rationale and methods of using birth control on zoo animals; the basics of recording behavioral observations and how modern zoos support and encourage conservation.

Age 18 or older. Good physical condition and ability to follow verbal and written directions. Interns must be willing to commit to a 12-week internship; have completed at least 2 years of college; have an overall grade point average of 2.0 ("C") or higher; submit an application (available on the zoo's website), cover letter, resume 2 letters of recommendation and an unofficial copy of the most recent transcripts.
The Zookeeper Apprentice Program is designed for adults (over the age of 18) who are not currently in college. It is more flexible to allow participants to work around employment schedules and other responsibilities. Apprentice applicants commit to a minimum of 192 hours of training. They must attend a Volunteer Orientation, submit a Zookeeper Apprentice Application (available on the Zoo's website or by contacting the Volunteer Programs Manager), cover letter and 2 letters of recommendation.

This opportunity is sponsored by: Oakland Zoo

Volunteers will work with the following groups Families / Parents We need volunteers who are free at these times Weekdays Weekends We are looking for volunteers with the following skills Animal Services This volunteer opportunity addresses the following social interests Animals & Environment This volunteer opportunity is available to the following types of volunteers Adults (26-54) Young Adults (18-25)

Contact Person: Lisa O’Dwyer, Volunteer Programs Manager, (phone), (email) View all agency contacts

Address:

9777 Golf Links Road Oakland, CA 94605 (See a map)

Directions:

The Oakland Zoo is located at 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland, off Highway 580. Exit at "98th Avenue/Golf Links Road."

Web Site: http://www.oaklandzoo.org

Last updated on April 29, 2009