Edmonton Valley Zoo

The Valley Zoo offers its guests special events throughout the year. Get involved to help out at our functions like Easter events, Mothers' Day, Canada Day, Halloween Boo at the Zoo, and Zoominesence throughout the winter months. 

These opportunities usually involve crafting assistants, fire pit attendants, activity station helpers, photo booth assistants, and more! 

**Please note that volunteers do not have direct contact with the Zoo's animal residents

The Valley Zoo Development Society’s (VZDS) raises funds and promote awareness to ensure the continued development of the Valley Zoo.

This is achieved through the events and various programs that the VZDS runs throughout the year. Currently, there are three fundraising events that the VZDS organizes; Zoofest, ZooBrew and Zoominesence. Programs that the VZDS run include the Adopt an Animal program.

**Please note that volunteers do not have direct contact with the Zoo's animal residents

PLEASE NOTE that the VEA program application portal will reopen on December 22, 2025. 

Are you enthusiastic, outgoing and passionate about animals and conservation?

As a visitor experience ambassador, volunteers will assist in providing excellent customer service to all visitors, as well as providing wayfinding and education about conservation through engaging games and activities. The VEA program will allow individuals in the community to gain volunteer or community service hours and develop their communication and interpersonal skills while gaining work experience in a Zoo setting. Applicants must successfully pass an interview to be considered for this position.

Volunteers will not have any direct interaction with the animals of the Zoo.

Responsibilities:

• Volunteers are friendly resources; they engage with guests by welcoming, directing, and providing general zoo information.

• Promote Animal Talks, interpreter-led activities and highlight any zoo news of the day.

• Lead  fun, interactive and educational activities for visitors of all ages

• Volunteers have access to a variety of activities that will be linked to conservation. VEA volunteers will educate visitors about the zoo’s conservation work, how we support our conservation partners, and how guests can get involved. 

• Educate visitors about animal care practices, such as enrichment, building and animal observation

• Volunteer Education Ambassadors approach visitors to start conversations to ensure visitor questions are answered or directed to the appropriate staff

• During special events and large demonstrations, volunteers will assist in controlling crowds and assist participants

• Notify staff of any situations that require staff attention

Requirements:

• 15 years of age or older

• Friendly and outgoing with the ability to start conversations

• A background in biology, ecology or environmental sciences is considered an asset, but is not required.

• A strong interest in Zoos and Conservation is required

• Successful candidates may be required to complete a Police Information Check