Museum of Discovery

The Museum of Discovery’s Animal Care Facility (ACF) is looking for dedicated volunteers who are knowledgeable and passionate about small exotic and native animals, their care, and would like to assist the Museum in igniting a passion for conservation and biodiversity in a safe and dynamic environment.

In order to provide a safe, healthy, and happy environment for its animal ambassadors, the Museum of Discovery follows guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). To adhere to these guidelines and Museum procedures, while building and maintaining a rapport with animal ambassadors, interested individuals must be willing to dedicate a significant and consistent amount of time to train and, ultimately, become an Animal Care Volunteer (ACV). Training will consist of several in-person sessions with the museum’s Animal Care Manager.

Animal Care Volunteer applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

Time Requirements:

Because the museum’s animal ambassadors require a consistent and exceptional level of care, individuals are encouraged to pledge a minimum of two hours a week and at least six months total as an ACV. However, due to the significant time commitment and the importance of their roles, Museum of Discovery will work around the schedules of ACVs.

Available shifts:      (3 volunteers per shift)

Monday** – Saturday: 10 am – 12 pm and 2 pm – 4 pm.

Sunday: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

** Museum of Discovery is only open on Mondays during the summer season and school holidays.

Responsibilities:

Daily responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

●        Preparing and delivering approved diets to the animals.

●        Making behavioral observations and assisting in enrichment delivery.

●        Washing/maintaining dishes, cleaning work surfaces, and animal enclosures.

●        Creating enrichment items and cage furniture for animal enclosures.

●        Performing walkabouts with ACF animal ambassadors

●        Assisting in animal adventure birthday parties when needed

●        Performing BioFact activities (produced by the museum’s education department) for guests.

Responsibilities are subject to changed based on each ACV’s level of training and comfortability and/or the judgement of the animal care manager or volunteer coordinator.