Little Builder
Posted 3/27/2020
Volunteer opportunities have been adjusted due to safety guidelines and museum needs. At this time all applicants must be at least 18 years and willing to follow all museum safety guidelines provided. We are only offering Wayfinding positions at this time that is part of our Public Programs Volunteer position listed below, so that we may continue to enhance visitor experiences in out amazing exhibits. When you submit an application you will still find all of our opportunities listed so that we may transition everyone at a later date.
Current Application Dates
The Boonshoft Museum is now accepting applications.
Applications are accepted anytime from August 1st to May 15th. If you are interested in volunteering with us, be sure to submit your application before the Summer deadline. Late applications may not be accepted will be kept on hold.
Volunteer Opportunities at Boonshoft
When you volunteer at a Dayton Society of Natural History location like the Boonshoft or SunWatch, you join a team of volunteers who represent multiple ages, interests, and areas of expertise, from former teachers and retired engineers, to teens and college students looking to expand their horizons through volunteerism. The Dayton Society of Natural History has an opportunity for everyone to contribute to meaningful projects and get hands-on while interacting with the community---all while having fun and meeting new people.
Below you will find short summaries of the volunteer opportunities being offered at this location. Volunteers receive a basic orientation to learn about the Boonshoft Museum and receive training for their specific position as they work alongside staff in their assignments. All applicants must meet the position requirements, submit an online application, pass an interview, and submit any required paperwork.
Click here to learn about volunteering at our Sunwatch location!
Public Programs Volunteer
These volunteers work alongside museum staff to bring visitors an educational, engaging, and memorable experience during their visit. Volunteers will take part in the many educational and fun public programs we offer every day in the museum. You will receive training to lead visitors at the interactive Discovery Table, meet sea stars at the Tidal Pool, and run the amazing shows in the Planetarium.
Volunteers will also take on the role of friendly and knowledgeable Wayfinders to ensure visitors have a positive and memorable experience. You will answer questions, provide directions, and engage in learning experiences inside our incredible exhibits spaces.
- All applicants must be at least 16 years old.
Volunteer Animal Assistant
Volunteers will work alongside our Live Animals Team inside our Discovery Zoo. By working with our animal keepers, volunteers will receive training to help support the zoo staff and the amazing animals. Work behind the scenes and learn the basics of animal care and assistant animal keepers with their projects. You will also receive some animal handling training to better support staff during our Keeper Talk programs where visitors get to meet one of our amazing animals!
- Applicants must be at least must be a high school graduate.
- Previous animal care experience in not required but is recommended.
Questions? Get in Touch with Us!
If you have questions about the opportunities or group opportunities, please submit an inquiry form and our team will reach out to you via email or phone.
Access VicNet (Volunteer Information Center Network)
Access your volunteer account, schedule, and more! LOG IN
Are you a current volunteer who needs to update their online profile? Email Volunteer@BoonshoftMuseum.org for a special link.
