Student Volunteers

The BioPark Education Student Volunteer program is designed to give teens the opportunity to explore their interests in the environmental sciences while getting practical work experience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Requirements

• Any High School Student who is 16 or older, and has worked as a BioPark Nature Guide or Camp Counselor in previous years.
• Enthusiasm, a commitment to teaching conservation, a sense of responsibility, patience, willingness to work with the general public, flexibility and a good attitude!
• Students will be expected to work independently and contribute ideas and suggestions.
• As a safety precaution, all applicants are required to submit to a City of Albuquerque background check before they can begin volunteering.

Duties

Student Volunteers will be asked to assist with an assortment of projects at the Zoo, Aquarium or Botanic Garden. These duties may include the following:

• Assist with educational classes
• Teach on grounds
• Work at the Touchpool (aquarium students only)
• Help generate new hands-on teaching props
• Set up and breakdown equipment for workshops and meetings
• Prepare educational buildings for events, workshops, and activities
• Research information about new species
• Create and distribute informational flyers/posters about upcoming programs
• Share information about events/activities to the public
• General office duties, such as photocopying
• Other miscellaneous duties assigned on a day to day basis.

Schedule & Hours

It is your responsibility to work with the Education Coordinator to create your own schedule, keep track of your hours and keep the Education Coordinator informed of any changes in your schedule. You will be given a calendar listing any special events, projects, dates to remember, holidays, etc. Students will be provided with a time sheet to keep track of their hours. If you are unable to work your regular schedule, you must contact the Education Coordinator at your work site BEFORE you miss a shift.

• Student Volunteers will be asked to work during the work week or on weekends for special events. You must commit to work a minimum of six hours per week, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. If students are submitting evaluations to their school regarding their mentorship, the Education Coordinator will need to be given two day’s notice in order to properly fill out the evaluation form.
• Student Volunteer positions usually last one semester. Positions can be extended to fit individual and BioPark needs. Applications are taken throughout the year and placements are usually made at the beginning of each semester. Please contact us for information about the availability of Student Volunteer positions.

Uniform

• A volunteer ID card will be provided. You will be expected to have this with you at all times.
• Unless you are teaching on zoo, aquarium or garden grounds, you may dress in school clothing.
• Cut-off jeans, short-shorts/skirts, low cut shirts, t-shirts, hats or inappropriate clothing will not be accepted.
• If you are assisting with a class or teaching on-site you will be expected to wear the same uniform our adult volunteers wear. This uniform is any combination of tan, brown, black or white, with an educator’s vest.
• Blue jeans are unacceptable when teaching on grounds.

Remember, you represent the BioPark and the City of Albuquerque!

Benefits

• As a BioPark Education volunteer you will receive an ID card that allows you to visit the Zoo, Aquarium or Botanic Garden on non-work days by presenting it to the cashier. 
• Volunteers can receive a discount at food concessions and gift stores with their valid Education Volunteer ID during regular operating hours.
• You will also be invited to attend educational workshops or special activities sponsored by BioPark Education.
• As part of the student volunteer team you will be provided with opportunities to lean more about educational programs, colleges, career camps and professional contacts all of which can provide more information about a career in zoology, marine science, or horticulture.
• Many students have also been able to earn course credit for their work as a BioPark Student Volunteer; inquire with your school advisor.

Structure

Mentorship students report directly to the Education Coordinator at the Zoo, Aquarium, or Botanic Garden. The coordinators report to the BioPark Education Curator. You may be asked to also work on projects with the Education Program Specialist or the Education Clerks. Students may have some interaction with staff at the Zoo, Aquarium, or Garden.

How To Apply

Fill out an application online.

Online volunteer application coming soon. Please contact the Volunteer Specialist.

In the appropriate spaces, be sure to include your thoughts on nature and conservation, and how you can contribute to preserving our environment. You may also indicate any special knowledge or skills that you feel would enhance your role as a student volunteer at the BioPark in the space provided.

Once your application is received, you will be asked to complete a separate background check form.