Volunteers are the heart of our zoo, playing a vital role throughout its history. Inspired by the dedication of Charles Paddock and his early supporters, our community has continually stepped up to meet the zoo’s needs, including donating food and building materials, offering their talents as puppeteers and docents, helping in the gift shop and office, and providing financial support. These early contributors recognized the zoo’s unique value to residents and visitors to the Central Coast.
Today, volunteers continue to make a meaningful impact through educational programs, special events, and administrative support.
Interested in joining our incredible team of volunteers?
Please complete the application below and email it to volunteering@centralcoastzoo.org, or call 805-470-3174 for more information.
A Volunteer is any individual who donates time and/or services to facilitate Central Coast Zoo programs. Training requirements for each position below are considered minimums and are subject to review and modification as necessary. The following are the departments that currently offer volunteer opportunities at the Central Coast Zoo:
Work closely with the zookeepers to help take care of the animals. Tasks include making diets, washing dishes, projects, and observations. This volunteer position has levels that allow more responsibilities, including working with animals at the keepers’ discretion, and independence as you move up. WE ARE CURRENTLY IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS TO ASSIST IN DIET PREPARATION.
Help to make Central Coast Zoo events a success for guests of all ages. These volunteers assist with activities, crafts, and guest interactions during special events like Ice Cream Safari, Zoo Boo, and more!
We strive to create an environment that is oasis for both animals and people. This volunteer opportunity will have you getting your hands dirty in no time by allowing you to care for plants by watering, cleaning, weeding, checking for pests, and more.
Inspire curiosity and caring by helping our guests connect with animals and nature! Aid in creating new animal enthusiasts by bringing out artifacts, telling a story about our collection, or developing curriculum for programs! Strong communication skills are highly encouraged for this volunteer position.
Do you have a special skill that might be helpful to the zoo? Whether is carpentry, maintenance or any other special skill (such as building nest boxes, painting, crafts …) – we need you. Contact us and let us know what you are good at. WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR A SKILLED CARPENTER TO HELP US BUILD NEST BOXES!!!