Volunteer with the Smithsonian

Smithsonian volunteers play an essential role in inspiring and engaging millions of people all over the world. We are always on the lookout for dynamic and curious people who want to be a part of the Smithsonian team.

We invite you to explore our many volunteer opportunities and discover the right volunteer program for you. To help you in your exploration, our volunteer opportunities are divided into three categories: Microscope, Telescope, and Kaleidoscope.

Microscope

Microscope Volunteers dig deep in order to share their intense training, profound knowledge and love of learning. They hook and engage audiences through inspiring and interactive educational experiences. They inspire with stories, tours, gallery talks, demonstrations, and creative hands-on experiences.

• Artizens (Freer/Sackler)
• Discovery Stations (Air and Space Museum and Udvar-Hazy Center)
• Docent Programs (Smithsonian museums)
• Education and Outreach (Natural History Museum)
• Education Volunteer Program (Zoo)
• Public Programs (Postal Museum)

Telescope

Telescope Volunteers have a broad perspective and big picture of all that the Smithsonian has to offer. They engage with people of all ages and from all walks of life by sharing their great range of Smithsonian knowledge. They offer infinite options to explore the Smithsonian.

• Event Monitor Program (Smithsonian Associates)
• Museum Information Desk Program
• Telephone Information Program
• Visitor Services Program (Air & Space Museum and Udvar-Hazy Center)

Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope Volunteers engage in a variety of multi-faceted volunteer projects in person at Smithsonian locations, in their own communities around the globe, and even in the Smithsonian’s virtual environment.

Citizen Science Volunteers
Contribute to Smithsonian research through field work afar and even in their own backyards.

• Citizen Science

Non-Public Volunteers
Foster the Smithsonian mission and support its interdisciplinary programs through less public oriented activities related to art, history, and sciences. Support administrative offices, archives, libraries, laboratories, translation services, social media initiatives and more.

• Behind-the-Scenes (Office of Visitor Services)
• Office Volunteers (Smithsonian Associates)
• Special Events and Zoo Support (Zoo)

Seasonal Volunteers
Spark the interest of people from all over the world by participating in short-term seasonal opportunities.

• Folklife Festival
• Public Program Assistant (Freer/Sackler)
• Smithsonian Gardens, Interpreter Programs
• Teen Volunteers (Zoo)
• Youth Teacher Assistants (Smithsonian Associates)