Check back regularly for upcoming opportunities! New positions open throughout the year to support our work in animal care, education programs, facility maintenance, dive operations, Stranding Response, retail, guest experience, and more.
Adult Volunteer Opportunities
Guest Engagement Docent
Do you love learning and enjoy connecting with people? Put that curiosity to work as a Guest Engagement Docent! Guest Engagement Docents help bring the Aquarium experience to life by engaging visitors in conversations about our exhibits, marine life, and Virginia’s marine environment. We’re looking for curious, enthusiastic adults who enjoy learning, sharing what they discover, and helping guests make connections with the world around them.
An interest in marine biology, environmental science, education, or informal learning is a plus—but not a requirement. This opportunity may be especially appealing to retired educators, college students interested in strengthening their informal teaching or science communication skills, and lifelong learners with an interest in the marine environment.
Must have good communication skills, be comfortable with public speaking, interacting with children, and be able to stand for an extended period. Candidates should also be comfortable with large crowds and varying noise levels.
Following training, Guest Engagement Docents commit to one four-and-a-half-hour shift per week for a minimum of one year.
New Gallery Docent Training combines interactive classroom sessions with hands-on experimentation and role-playing at Aquarium exhibits. The training consists of four sessions, and attendance at all four is required.
In addition to an overview of the “day in the life of a gallery docent,” you will be introduced to the Aquarium’s main exhibits: the Upland and Coastal River Rooms, Chesapeake Bay Gallery, Restless Planet, Sharks, Sea Turtles, Cold Water Gallery, the touch pools, and the Chesapeake Bay Aquarium.
Facilitators will also share tips and basic techniques for connecting with Aquarium guests and effectively sharing exhibit content.
Class Name | Class Date | Location |
Session 1: | Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 5:30PM-7:30PM | North Building Classroom |
Session 2: Upland and Coastal River Rooms, Restless Planet, Sharks, Sea Turtles, & Cold Water Gallery | Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 5:30PM-7:30PM | North Building Classroom |
Session 3: | Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026 5:30PM-7:30PM | North Building Classroom |
Session 4: | Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026 5:30PM-7:30PM | South Building Education Hall |
Want to Volunteer But Short On Time?
Take a peek at our one-day volunteer opportunities!
Already a Volunteer?
Log into the volunteer portal to access your schedule, records, and more.
Have Questions?
Contact our Volunteer Engagement Office at (757) 385-0274 or via email.