Nature GuidesFacilitate summer discovery stations at the ABQ BioPark Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden. Teach guests about the fascinating world of animals and plants, while inspiring a sense of stewardship towards the earth and its inhabitants. (14+)https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/about-the-biopark/biopark-jobs-volunteering/volunteer/biopark-nature-guideshttps://www.cabq.gov/++resource++plone-logo.svgNature GuidesFacilitate summer discovery stations at the ABQ BioPark Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden. Teach guests about the fascinating world of animals and plants, while inspiring a sense of stewardship towards the earth and its inhabitants. (14+)https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/about-the-biopark/biopark-jobs-volunteering/volunteer/biopark-nature-guideshttps://www.cabq.gov/++resource++plone-logo.svg
Nature Guides
Facilitate summer discovery stations at the ABQ BioPark Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden. Teach guests about the fascinating world of animals and plants, while inspiring a sense of stewardship towards the earth and its inhabitants. (14+)
BioPark Nature Guides
Ages: 14 and older
Minimum time commitment: 40 volunteer hours over an eight week period
The ABQ BioPark Teen Volunteer program, Nature Guides, is available to youth ages 14-18. Over the course of eight weeks in June and July, Nature Guides will rotate through the Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden engaging in hands-on conservation projects and helping guests connect with nature by interpreting their experiences.
This program is key to the BioPark’s mission of fostering meaningful connections between people and nature. As ambassadors of this mission, Nature Guides play a vital role in conservation education.
Requirements
14 to 18 years old
Enthusiasm for the BioPark and a commitment to teaching and learning about conservation and stewardship.
Submit an online application
Pass a City of Albuquerque background check
Attend our 2025 virtual open house on Saturday, May 17, or watch the recording by May 23
Commit to 40 volunteer hours over eight weeks
Attend 2 mandatory orientation days (choose from June 2 & 3, 2025 or June 4 & 5, 2025).
Be responsible, dependable, and flexible
Have strong communication skills with BioPark guests.
Follow all BioPark Volunteer policies and protocols
Important Dates for 2025
*Summer 2025 Applications have closed*
Application deadline: May 20
Virtual Open House: Saturday May 17 (or view recording by May 23)
In-person Orientation: June 2 & 3; June 4 & 5
Program duration: June 2 through July 25
Duties
Facilitate interactive learning areas throughout the Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden.
Set up displays and maintain educational displays; handling materials with care
Learn about featured animals and plants, and teach BioPark visitors about their natural history and habitats
Be punctual, in uniform, and work collaboratively with fellow nature Guides
Time Commitment
Minimum of 40 hours (eight shifts) over an eight week period
Choose from:
Morning shift: 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Afternoon shift: 12:15 pm to 3:15 pm
Full Day shift: 9:30 am to 3:15 pm (includes a lunch break, bring your own lunch)
Orientation and Training
Attend the Virtual Open House
Complete a two day in-person training at the Zoo and Aquarium/Botanic Garden Education Buildings
Uniform
Wear the issued volunteer ID badge while on duty
Uniform shirt provided during orientation
Approved volunteer uniform colors include: black, brown, khaki, and white (colors must be solid with no patterns or writing)
The uniform should be neat and professional (clothing should not be ripped or torn, shorts must be a functional length)
Comfortable shoes with good, non-slip tread are recommended; all open toed shoes must have a back strap
Volunteers are responsible for acquiring and wearing the BioPark Volunteer uniform while on duty
Benefits
While these opportunities are unpaid, the experience is priceless! Nature Guides will:
Make a meaningful impact teaching guests about conservation
Enjoy free regular admission to all BioPark facilities (Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden)
Discounts at concessions and gift stores with their valid Education Volunteer ID during regular operating hours.
In addition to all of BioPark Volunteer benefits, Nature Guides will have the opportunity to learn from BioPark horticulturalists and animal care professionals, participate in behind-the-scenes tours, and attend an end-of-the-summer recognition event.
Nature Guides who complete the minimum 40 volunteer hours will receive a letter of recognition and a certificate of appreciation which can be used towards college & job applications, portfolios, and resumes.
Support
The Nature Guide program is led by the Volunteer Coordinator, Volunteer Facilitator, and seasonal staff. BioPark staff mentor the teens and provide supervision and assistance as needed.
Costs
BioPark Education Volunteers are responsible for acquiring their own uniform clothing. The T-shirt can be purchased from BioPark Education during the second day of training for approximately $5.
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