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 to 18 years old
Minimum time commitment: 40 volunteer hours over an eight-week period
Our Nature Guides program at the Albuquerque BioPark is available to youth ages 14 to 18. Over the course of seven 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.
Attend our 2026 virtual open house on Saturday, May 16, or watch the recording by Wednesday, May 20
Commit to 40 volunteer hours over eight weeks
Attend 2 mandatory orientation days (choose from June 1 & 3, or June 2 & 5, 2026)
Be responsible, dependable, and flexible
Have strong communication skills with BioPark guests
Follow all BioPark Volunteer policies and protocols
Important Dates for 2026
Application deadline: May 20
Virtual Open House: Saturday May 16 (or view recording by May 20)
Must fill out the application to receive the Zoom link for this open house
In-person Orientation: June 1 & 3; June 2 & 5
Program duration: June 1 through July 25
Duties
Facilitate interactive learning areas throughout the Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden
Set up 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 certificate of appreciation and be eligible to request a letter of recommendation which can be used towards college & job applications, portfolios, and résumés
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
There are no costs for this opportunity aside from gas & lunch costs
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