Renovation Updates
Please note some exhibit spaces in the Aquarium are temporarily closed while we conduct maintenance and renovation work. Learn more on our Renovation Progress page .
Adult Volunteer Opportunities
Aquarium Store Assistant
Are you looking to develop or enhance your retail and customer service skills? Want to know more about what happens behind the scenes in a retail operation? Assist with engaging guests and responding to inquiries, pricing and displaying merchandise, annual inventory, maintaining the sales floor, and helping with crowd control. Customer service experience is a plus!
Must be able to stand for an extended period and willing to develop knowledge of Aquarium Store products.
Must be available to volunteer at least one 4 to 4.5-hour shift a week for a minimum of six months.
Dolphins Discoveries Docent
Come aboard to see and share information about some of the area’s most fascinating aquatic creatures in their natural habitat. As a dolphin discoveries docent, you will work closely with an Aquarium educator, showing biofacts and other props to facilitate the eco-tours programming. In addition to being available to answer the guest’s questions about marine life off the coast of Virginia Beach, you may also assist with collecting data on dolphin sightings.
Candidates must have good communication skills and be comfortable initiating conversations. Standing for an extended period in variable weather conditions is required. Applicants should also have previous customer service experience, be comfortable around water, and not be affected by motion sickness.
Must be available to volunteer at least 8 two-and-a-half-hour shifts during the Dolphin Discoveries season. The season is from March to October.
Guest Engagement Docent
Do you love learning and enjoy connecting with a diverse group? This can be the perfect position for you! As a guest engagement docent, you will share information about the aquarium’s exhibits and Virginia’s marine environment with visitors. Applicants with an interest in marine biology are ideal. This is also an excellent opportunity for retired educators or individuals involved in education.
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, a minimum commitment of one four-and-a-half hour shift a week for one year is required.
New guest engagement docents must attend all seven sessions of onsite training at the Virginia Aquarium.
Class Name | Class Date | Location |
Session 1: | Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025 5:30pm-7:30pm | North Building Classroom |
Session 2: Upland & Coastal River Rooms | Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025 5:30pm-7:30pm | North Building Classroom |
Session 3: Restless Planet | Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 5:30pm-7:30pm | North Building Classroom |
Session 4: Sharks, Sea Turtles, & Cold Water Gallery | Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025 5:30pm-7:30pm | North Building Classroom |
Session 5: | Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025 5:30pm-7:30pm | North Building Classroom |
Session 6: | Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025 5:30pm-7:30pm | South Building Theater |
Session 7: Emergency Procedures & Wrap-Up | Tuesday, March 4, 2025 5:30pm-7:30pm | North Building Classroom |
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.
