Docents

(18 Years or Older)

The Utica Zoo is always looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join its team of docents!

What is a Utica Zoo Docent?

A zoo docent is a volunteer, teacher, interpreter, or guide who is dedicated to educating the public about the environment, wildlife, conservation, and the Utica Zoo. They dedicate at least 40 hours of volunteer service each year!

What does a Docent do?

  • Assists with educational classes both on and off zoo grounds
  • Promotes the zoo’s mission by acting as a zoo ambassador and educating the visiting public on important conservation topics through the use of bio-facts, live animals, exhibit interpretation, and other educational tools.
  • Leads guided educational tours
  • Participates in animal enrichment activities
  • When certified, handles ambassador animals for programs and animal socialization
  • And much more…

How do I become a Docent?

Anyone looking to become a docent must be at least 18 years of age, and must apply online. We also recommend that anyone looking to become a Utica Zoo Docent have at least a two-year college degree. References will be required, and if the application is accepted all applicants must submit to a background check. Once cleared, all new docents are required to attend a Docent Training Course. The Docent training course will cover very important information that all of our docents are required to know, and maintain knowledge of.

2022 Scheduled Training Days

November 14 & 21 and December 5, 12 & 19 from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the Utica Zoo!

There is a $40 volunteer onboarding fee which covers training, a docent shirt, and fees for online volgistics.

Due to needing time to set up for our Wine in the Wilderness Event, on June 3rd the zoo will be closing to the public at 1pm! We will reopen our doors at 6pm for the event! Event tickets will still be purchasable at our gift shop during this time!