The American Museum of Natural History utilizes more than one thousand volunteers. The volunteer program is administered by the Department of Volunteer Services.

More than 50% of the volunteers work directly with the public. They staff the information desks, teach school children, conduct tours of the Museum, and act as explainers in the fossil halls and in the earth and space exhibit area. The volunteers behind the scenes provide a wide range of essential services. They assist in the production of the Natural History magazine, provide special clerical and computer support services, work with the collections of the science departments, catalog and handle new and rare books in the library, and accept a myriad of other assignments in both the administrative and science departments of the Museum.

Many volunteers are native New Yorkers who as children and young adults used the Museum for both recreation and education. Serving as volunteers is their way of saying thanks, and involving themselves in a meaningful way with an institution whose goals they support. Our volunteers are from diverse backgrounds and reflect the population of the city. The minimum age is 16; there is no upper limit.

A volunteer is expected to provide a regular commitment of time, ranging from one half day to several days per week. The Museum is open to the public seven days a week, and volunteers are utilized at all times.

The Museum normally expects a commitment of at least one year. However because of the extended training necessary for certain positions, longer commitments are sometimes required. All the "behind the scenes" volunteer positions, including the science departments, are only available Monday-Friday during normal business hours.

Opportunities for volunteers are always changing depending upon the needs of the museum.

Click here to view the application packet for volunteer services. After reading the accompanying information, please print and fill out the application, and send via traditional mail with a copy of your resume. After your application is reviewed, an appointment will be made with you for an interview if your skills and availability match the current needs of the Museum.