Program Description
The Dive Volunteer program is a year-round, long-term volunteer opportunity for adults, ages 18 and above, who have met the SCUBA certification and dive time requirements, can demonstrate the requisite dive skills, have great people skills and also have a deep respect for aquatic animals and conservation. Minimum diver experience is PADI OWD certification (or equivalent) and 10 hours of open water bottom time.
Volunteer divers provide a variety of underwater support for the Aquarium, including:
- Surface safety person (tender) for other divers
- Underwater cleaning of artificial decorative items
- Cleaning of dive gear
Volunteer divers support educational and engaging guest experiences including:
- Short guest interactions during cleaning dives, such as fist bumps, photos, and other moments that can be made while completing responsibilities
- Demonstrate responsible diving including ethical and safety minded interactions with or around animals. Follow all rules regarding animal interactions as set by the Aquarium staff. Meet and greets with the public prior to some dives
Training
Zoo Divers must complete the following training process:
- Volunteer orientation
- CPR, First Aid, Oxygen delivery and AED – either show current certification or attend training
- Review Toledo Zoo Dive Safety manual
- Observe a minimum of 3 dives before participating in underwater responsibilities or serving as surface tender.
Volunteers must also have a physician’s health statement on file.
Time Commitment
Because of the lengthy training requirements, it is vital that all volunteer divers have the expectation of becoming long-term volunteers. Currently cleaning dives are Sundays, Wednesday, and Thursdays, with occasional Saturdays, at 11:30 a.m.
Volunteer Divers are expected to commit to:
- Dive/tend at least two times per month (averaged yearly) for a minimum of 1 year.
- Complete safety training / continuing education each year as required.
- Report any safety or health issues to staff.
- Supply their own full length black colored wetsuit and mask. Recommended 3mm but should be thicker than a dive skin (not full cold-water). Hoods, dive fins, gloves, dive socks, and other gear will be provided. Divers have the option to use their own hoods.
Application Process
Those interested in joining the Dive Volunteer program must attend an Informational Session. Fill out the Dive Interest form to be contacted for our next series of Dive Information Sessions.
