Become a volunteer
Share our mission to inspire conservation of the ocean and help visitors from around the world explore the wonders of Monterey Bay and beyond. We need your help—and so does the ocean! If you'd like to discuss future openings or new volunteer roles, or if you have unique skill sets you would like to offer as a volunteer, please email us at recruitment@mbayaq.org.
Last updated October 13, 2026
Become a volunteer guide
We're looking for people passionate about conservation of the ocean! Apply now for our volunteer guide position and attend one of the following information sessions:
Virtual session on Zoom
Nov 12 (Thurs.)
6–7:45 p.m.
In person at the Aquarium
Nov 14 (Sat.)
8:15–10 a.m.
Other volunteer opportunities
Volunteers help support the Aquarium's mission of ocean conservation through a variety of roles and projects.
Volunteer
Administrative volunteer
Help us with important day-to-day operations that keep our institution running—for the ocean’s sake.
Learn more – Administrative volunteer
Volunteer
Animal care volunteer
Help us care for our animals, from food preparation to cleaning to exhibit maintenance.
Learn more – Animal care volunteer
Volunteer
Dive volunteer
Help us maintain underwater exhibits like the Kelp Forest, Sea Otters, and Monterey Bay Habitats exhibits.
Learn more – Dive volunteer
Volunteer
Information Center volunteer
Help visitors from around the world discover and enjoy the wonders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Learn more – Information Center volunteer
Volunteer
Otter care volunteer
Help us care for abandoned, ill, or injured sea otters and release them back into the wild.
Learn more – Otter care volunteer
Volunteer
Sea otter field observer volunteer
Help us track and observe wild, tagged sea otters for conservation research.
Learn more – Sea otter field observer volunteer
Volunteer
Special and evening events volunteer
Help us host special celebrations and evening events that promote ocean conservation awareness.
Learn more – Special and evening events volunteerLucile S. Packard Memorial Award and Youth Award
Each year, we honor several amazing volunteers with the Lucile S. Packard Memorial Award and Youth Award for outstanding volunteer service.
Story
2026 Lucile S. Packard Memorial Award and Youth Award recipients
We’re proud to announce the 2026 Lucile S. Packard Memorial and Youth Awards for outstanding volunteers!
Read story – 2026 Lucile S. Packard Memorial Award and Youth Award recipients
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Past Lucile S. Packard Memorial Award & Youth Award recipients
We honor the previous winners of the Lucile S. Packard Memorial and Youth Awards for outstanding volunteers.
Read more – Past Lucile S. Packard Memorial Award & Youth Award recipientsKeep exploring
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Members
Log in to your member account, or explore member events and benefits.
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Ways to give
There are many ways to support our work—choose the ones that work best for you.
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Become a member
Become a member, gift a membership, or log in to renew your membership.
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