There is great reward in teaching others to see the wonders of nature and watch a mind grow. 

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium and Wildlife Safari Park offer a variety of volunteer opportunities that invite adults to support conservation, inspire learning, and create positive guest experiences. Whether welcoming visitors, supporting educational programs, or assisting behind the scenes, every volunteer plays an important role in helping our mission come to life. Each contribution matters, and we are deeply grateful for the time, care, and passion our volunteers share.

Volunteer requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age
• Be able to commit to 2 years of volunteer service
• Meet minimum hourly requirements per year
• Attend Volunteer Orientation 
• Complete application and interview process

Volunteer Opportunities

Docent Volunteer: Docents support the Zoo’s education programs by helping facilitate engaging experiences for guests, promoting conservation messages, and enhancing on-grounds learning. Opportunities may include biofact presentations, exhibit interpretation, guided tours, and support at special events. This role is vital to both the visitor experience and our educational mission. Volunteers in this role do not have physical contact with animals. 

Apply Here

Wildlife Safari Park Volunteer: Wildlife Safari Park volunteers support educational programming, share conservation messages, and help create memorable visits for Park guests. Volunteers may serve at formal and informal education stations and assist staff during special events. The Wildlife Safari Park is located off Nebraska’s I-80 at Exit 426. Volunteers in this role do not have physical contact with animals.

Apply Here

Scuba Diver Volunteer: Certified scuba divers are invited to apply for this specialized volunteer opportunity. Additional details are provided within the application.

Apply Here

Additional volunteer opportunities may become available throughout the year. We encourage you to visit the volunteer application hub regularly to explore current openings and learn more about how you can get involved.

If you’re passionate about animals, curious about conservation, and excited to make a meaningful impact, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium offers youth volunteer opportunities designed to inspire learning, connection, and service. Students in grades 7 - 12 are invited to explore how a world-class zoo operates while supporting our mission and engaging with guests.

Program descriptions, timelines, and key dates are outlined below. Grades and program placement are determined by a student’s status at the time of registration.

Zoo Crew: Grades 9 - 12

Zoo Crew is a year-round volunteer program for dedicated high school students who are eager to support the Zoo’s mission through their time, talents, and enthusiasm. Zoo Crew members play an important role in educational and on-grounds programs, helping create meaningful experiences for guests while continuing to grow their own knowledge and skills.

Throughout the year, Zoo Crew volunteers serve in a variety of areas across the Zoo, sharing what they’ve learned about animals, conservation, and habitats with our guests. As students gain experience, they may take on additional responsibilities, including working with biofacts and supporting a wider range of volunteer opportunities.

During the summer, Zoo Crew members may also serve as Day Mentors, supporting programs such as Jr Crew. In this role, students help guide younger participants, share their knowledge, and encourage confidence in presenting information to guests.

Zoo Crew members participate in monthly meetings that provide ongoing learning, program updates, and opportunities to build community. Students who complete 70 volunteer hours, attend at least 7 of the 12 meetings, and participate in two special events earn a complimentary family Zoo membership for the following year.

The first-year program fee is $85 for both Zoo members and non-members. After the first year, the annual fee is $40 for both members and non-members.

How To Apply For Zoo Crew:

1. Complete the online application. Applicants who are accepted will receive additional information and next steps required to join the program.

2. Attend the required Kick-Off Meeting at the Zoo in late September. A parent or guardian must attend with the student.

Zoo Crew is currently accepting applications for 2026 from individuals in the youth volunteer program, including previous Jr Crew members who are now eligible by age.

Apply for the Jr Crew Volunteer Program

Jr Crew Volunteer Details

Our Jr Crew is a structured, hands-on volunteer experience designed for students who will have completed 7th or 8th grade by June 1, 2026. Participants are invited to discover the Zoo from a new perspective while building connections, exploring conservation efforts, and contributing to work that supports animal well-being and guest education. Along the way, Jr Crew members learn about the many species that call our Zoo home, the conservation work happening behind the scenes, and how they can use their voices to inspire care for wildlife and the natural world.

Session Details

This program runs in four-week sessions and brings youth together in a supportive, cohort-based environment. Each cohort meets Tuesday through Friday, with a choice of morning (9-11 a.m.) or afternoon (1-3 p.m.) sessions. Participants remain in the same cohort for the full session. A program fee of $60 per participant helps cover uniforms, materials, supplies, and hands-on activities throughout the experience.

Space is limited in each cohort, and applications are reviewed in the order they are received. All interested youth must submit an application, including those who have participated in past youth volunteer programs, as returning volunteers are not automatically enrolled. Applications submitted by the February 28 deadline will be considered. Those not immediately placed will be added to a waiting list and contacted if space becomes available. We truly appreciate your interest and enthusiasm as we work to match students with these meaningful opportunities.

Apply for the Jr Crew Volunteer Program

2026 Jr Crew Calendar

• January 21: Applications open January 21
• February 28: Applications close; late submissions will not be considered
• The week of March 16: Applicants will be notified of selection status and session assignments
• May 14, 6 p.m.: Session 1 Jr Crew Volunteers and their parent(s)/guardian(s) must attend an orientation meeting
  • May 16, 9 a.m.: Second orientation option
• June 2 - 26: Session 1
• June 4, 6 p.m.: Session 2 Jr Crew Volunteers and their parent(s)/guardian(s) must attend an orientation meeting
  • June 6, 9 a.m.: Second orientation option
• July 6 - 31: Session 2