Train/Carousel Crew

The HVZ Train & Carousel is located close to the parking lot along Vilas Park Dr. HVZ staff are available all throughout the shift to support volunteers when needed. A small office is located within the carousel and often serves as a quiet/dark break area for volunteers and attendants. The closest bathroom is in the center of the Zoo just outside the Children's Zoo. All surfaces are even, and accessible by wheelchair. The HVZ Train & Carousel is a high-sensory area due to the lights, loud music/sounds and high guest numbers, and may not be suitable for those with sensitivities to light and sound.

• At least 18 years of age
• A valid driver's license
• Able to lift at least 20lbs
• Able to focus on one thing at a time
• Able to easily switch between sitting and standing, and to quickly respond in the event of an emergency
• Enjoys working with children and all the challenges they bring
• Enjoys finding ways to help people smile

Volunteers commit to a weekly shift the same day of each week. Shifts are 10AM-1PM/1-4PM any day of the week.*
*Every other week shifts may be available as the need arises.

12hrs/mo: Train/Carousel Crew members commit to a weekly shift from the time they begin through September.

The Train/Carousel Crew is most busy May through September. Additional shifts will be available in October for those volunteers who want to enjoy quieter times when we have more local littles enjoying the fall weather with their adults.

• Online
  • Volunteer Software Basics (5-10min)
  • Volunteer Orientation (1-2hrs)
  • Radio Training (40-50min)

• In-Person
  • Onsite orientation (1hr) - Meet other volunteers, and HVZ Staff, learn how to safely operate the train/carousel, short tour of other Children's Zoo habitats

Being inside, our carousel will run in all types of weather. Our train runs on an electric motor, and cannot be operated in rain, through heavy snow/mud/ice, or in temperatures under 45 degrees Fahrenheit. In the event that we are unable to run our train/carousel due to weather or mechanical-related troubles, we will alert our volunteer crew that they can take an excused absence.