The Taronga Behavioural team are looking for volunteers to be a part of our behavioural team and assist with animal observation and data collection, supporting Taronga’s highest standards of animal welfare.

Taronga Zoo cares for many species with animal welfare being our top priority and focus. Our Volunteers assist with observation of animal behaviour, data collection and data entry. Successful applicants will receive basic training in animal observation and data collection by Taronga Zoo’s Behavioural team. 

•    This role is available 5 days a week (Mon-Fri only) between 9am – 4pm. 
•    Applicants must be available to volunteer one day per week, with the option for fortnightly. 
•    Due to the level of training and investment in our volunteers, this position requires a 12-month commitment
•    All Taronga Volunteers are required to complete eLearning and attend induction and basic animal observation training.
•    Please read through the attached Role Description to decide if this is the right role for you.
 

Please note: This volunteer role will have no direct animal contact. There are also limited opportunities to specialise entirely with the Carnivore team, however this work is more isolated in nature and only focuses on these taxa. 

•    Show commitment, punctuality and a professional, friendly manner
•    Demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a team
•    Be able to maintain accuracy and motivation with repetitive tasks
•    Have good observation skills
•    Demonstrate written and oral communication skills
•    Have excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to establish good working relationships
•    Have experience with Microsoft Office and other digital interfaces used for data collection
•    Have experience with statistical analysis software (highly desirable but not mandatory)

A Volunteer Programs Fee of $120.00 will be charged to successful applicants**. 
This enables many volunteer benefits, including;

•    Taronga Volunteer Uniform; Polo shirt, fleece and optional hat
•    Complimentary entry passes to Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo for family and friends*
•    Free parking
•    Discounts on retail and food outlets, accommodation, products and special programs
•    Reciprocal deals and discounts with suppliers and partners
•    Presale access and discounts on major events such as Twilight at Taronga
•    Taronga Value Awards & recognition scheme
•    Early access, sneak peeks and access to internal systems and communications
•    National Volunteer Week, International Volunteer Day and other initiatives and events
•    Induction, learning and development & networking opportunities
•    Opportunity to take part in special events and programs
*Complimentary passes are distributed in December each year.
** Financial hardship support available, please get in touch

As part of your application, you will need to outline the reason you wish to become a Taronga Volunteer, as well as addressing how your skills, interests and or experience are relevant to this volunteer role.

All applicants will be required to address the following selection criteria in the application form:

• Outline your experience and/or interest in animal behaviour observation.

• Outline your experience, if any, in using software technologies or digital platforms to record data.

Apply Now

Applications must be submitted via the Taronga Volunteer Vacancies website by Midnight, Tuesday 10th February 2026.
Applications received via SEEK or GoVolunteer will NOT be processed.

If you have any queries or require any assistance with the application process, please email volunteer@zoo.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 9978 4695

Key Dates:
Applications Close: Tuesday, 20th February 2026
Interviews: Will be held during the week of February 23rd 2026