Thank you for your interest in joining our team at the Science Museum of Western Virginia. Did you know that the museum sees over 90,000 students, patrons and visitors a year? We believe in empowering our community through experimental learning and cannot achieve our mission without the support of our incredible volunteers!
New Volunteers
At the Science Museum of Western Virginia, volunteers play a vital role in creating engaging, hands-on experiences for our visitors. Whether you’re interested in education, animals, events, or behind-the-scenes support, there’s a place for you here.
Ready to join our Volunteer Team?
To start the process, please contact us at 540.342.5718 or email us at hsell@smwv.org.
*A background check must be completed prior to your first time volunteering*
- Flexible scheduling and duties to best suit the individual
- Free admission tickets after the first 10 hours of volunteering
- Free Individual Membership after 50 hours of volunteering
- Free Passport Membership after 100 hours of volunteering
Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age, although some roles require a minimum age of 18 years. A Liability Waiver must be signed and an adult Background Check must be completed prior to volunteering at the museum. Volunteers must also uphold the mission of the Science Museum and act professionally in all cases.
Volunteer Positions
Explore the volunteer positions below to see what might interest you. If you don’t find a position you think is right for you, reach out to our Director of Operations, Hunter Sell, to discuss how we can find the best role for you.
Administrative Support Volunteer
Assist with essential behind-the-scenes tasks that keep the museum running smoothly. Responsibilities may include organizing supplies, inventorying materials, and supporting general office needs.
Education Support Volunteer
Work alongside our Education team to help deliver interactive learning experiences. Volunteers may assist with camps, field trips, and hands-on activities while helping maintain materials and ensuring a positive experience for students and families. Note: Some roles may require additional training.
Living Collections (Animal Care) Volunteer
Support our Living Collections team in caring for the museum’s animals. Tasks may include assisting with feeding prep, cleaning enclosures, creating enrichment activities, and supporting live animal demonstrations and guest interactions. Note: Additional training required for animal handling.
The Eye Planetarium
Volunteer opportunities in The Eye focus on creating a welcoming and engaging experience by helping guests navigate the space, supporting planetarium upkeep and resets, and assisting with special events.
Visitor Services Volunteer Museum Floor Support
Help maintain a clean, welcoming environment by assisting with exhibit upkeep, light cleaning, and ensuring interactive spaces are ready for guests.
Front Desk Support
Assist staff with organizing materials, preparing supplies, and keeping the front desk and gift shop area tidy.
Exhibit Support
Work within exhibit areas to reset activities, restock materials, and help guide visitors through interactive experiences.
Events Volunteer
Be part of the action during museum events! Volunteers assist with setup, greeting guests, ticket collection, facilitating activity stations, and event breakdown.