Adult Volunteers
Volunteers of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium donate their time, talents and energy to:
- Help guests learn about the animals they see on exhibit
- Assist with the delivery of educational programs
- Staff special events
- Greet guests at the main entrance
- Maintain zoo grounds and exhibits
- Assist keepers with animal care
Are you interested in joining this dynamic and diverse team of people?
Once you have reviewed the volunteer opportunities, you are ready to take the NEXT STEPS in the application process. Interested individuals will need to complete an application, interview and background check before being accepted as a volunteer for Pt. Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.
Volunteer Opportunities
Please review the following volunteer opportunity job descriptions to see if one fits your skills and interests. To apply for a position, complete the online application.
Event Assistant: Volunteers staff activity stations and assist in set-up /take down for events.
Aquarium Diver: Divers assist in the husbandry of the large aquariums. Although there is a wait-list, we encourage you to submit your volunteer diver application to the volunteer office.
Zoobilee: Volunteers, for this black-tie dinner and auction, assist with gourmet food & beverage service, event set-up, event clean-up and many more positions. Interested individuals must submit a Zoobilee volunteer application to the Zoobilee volunteer coordinator.
Aquarium Diver: Divers assist in the husbandry of the large aquariums. Although there is a wait-list, we encourage you to submit your volunteer diver application to the volunteer office.
Zoobilee: Volunteers, for this black-tie dinner and auction, assist with gourmet food & beverage service, event set-up, event clean-up and many more positions. Interested individuals must submit a Zoobilee volunteer application to the Zoobilee volunteer coordinator.
Volunteer Requirements
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium selects people for volunteering who are:
- At least 18 years old.
- Interested in and care about people, animals, and conservation;
- Friendly, outgoing, enthusiastic and dependable;
- Committed to the highest standards of customer service;
- Able to make their positions minimum commitment of hours;
- Able to attend a required Zoo Orientation;
- Able to contribute a $40 administrative fee (Note: Financial assistance is available)
- Pass a standard national background check;
- Pass a Metro Parks Tacoma disclosure statement