Conservation & Education

Education volunteers share information about the Zoo's animals and engage with guests about conservation issues and the impact humans have on the environment with a goal to inspire action and create change. Volunteers are trained to engage with guests at various Investigation Stations (stationary carts) throughout the Zoo. Volunteers use the Zoo’s living collection, games, and biofacts to enhance the conversation and initiate interactions with guests of all ages.

Available Shifts: April - October. Wednesdays - Sundays. 10 am - 2 pm.

Volunteers should be available to establish and commit to two shifts each month. 

Training will provide a clear understanding of the Zoo’s mission; introduce ecology and how all things are connected discussing human influences; demonstrate effective communication skills and teach volunteers how to incorporate conservation messages and action steps into interactions.

Minimum age requirement is 16 years old. Youth between the ages of 12 - 15 years old can volunteer for this assignment with their parent or legal guardian. This adult must complete all required documents, training, and be available to serve alongside the child at each scheduled shift.

Volunteers are stationed at the Honey Bee Pavilion and Garden in the North America section of the Zoo. They engage with guests to provide information regarding the natural history and conservation of honey bees. A variety of resources are available at the habitat, such as a working observation hive, graphics, and pollination plants to increase guest awareness of honey bees and their importance. Honey bees are managed and cared for by Zookeeper staff and are not the responsibility of volunteers. 

Applicants must be paying members of the North Carolina State Beekeeper Association to qualify for this position.

Available Shifts: March - October. Wednesdays through Sundays. 10 am - 3 pm. 

Volunteers should be available to establish and commit to two shifts. 

Training will provide a review of beekeeping principles and the natural history of honey bees, with a focus on the significance of the honey bee to human and wildlife populations by pollination. 

Honey Sales: Honey and other honey bee products may be sold at the habitat with approval.

Minimum age requirement is 16 years old. Youth between the ages of 12 - 15 years old can volunteer for this assignment with their parent or legal guardian. This adult must complete all required documents, training and be available to serve alongside the child at each scheduled shift.