Volunteer guide

We're not currently accepting applications for this position.

Share the Monterey Bay Aquarium's mission to inspire conservation of the ocean with guests from around the world.

Duties and requirements

Must be age 18 or older. If you’re under 18, check out our Teen Programs.
Ability to be on the floor of the Aquarium for long periods of time, moving to various Aquarium exhibits. (Please notify us if you need accommodations.)
Comfortable handling live animals and plants in our hands-on stations, like the cold-water touch pools. Species may include, but are not limited to: various kelp species, sponges, urchins, and hermit crabs.
Excellent communication skills to handle large groups, answer questions, and interpret exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Willing and able to interact with multicultural and multilingual guests in a respectful and engaging manner.

Six months of regular volunteering is mandatory, with a four-hour shift per week or a five-hour shift every other weekend.
New volunteers will focus on learning key exhibits and then add to their knowledge by completing additional training.
Volunteer guides start with a six-day training course.
Following training, volunteers will be scheduled to begin serving on shifts immediately.
Once on shift, volunteer guides are required to complete two additional training sessions and independent online training.