VOLUNTEER JOB DESCRIPTION for Education Gallery Volunteer
The purpose of this role is to assist the Education Department engaging guests in the Aquarium to enhance their visit. Gallery Volunteers are stationed throughout the galleries to interpret exhibits, animals, and plants by offering educational information to visitors through interpretation and storytelling.
Gallery Volunteers will interact with guests through cart stations and exhibit interpretation. Being a Gallery Volunteer is a combination of correct educational information, using appropriate guest interaction techniques, and good customer service. Gallery volunteers do NOT work with animals.
Please note: The Gallery Volunteer application will close on January 17th, 2025.
WORK AREA
- Tennessee Aquarium galleries in both buildings: Ocean Journey & River Journey
QUALIFICATIONS
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be enthusiastic and cheerful
- Outgoing and approachable
- Be prompt and reliable
- Be proactive in problem solving
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Ability to work with a diverse group of people
- Requires stationary positions throughout both buildings during your shift
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES
- Engage and answer visitor questions as they visit the Aquarium
- Interpret exhibits and the habitats they represent through cart programs and biofact interpretation.
- Convey an environmental message to the public that stresses the relationship between all living things and the importance of stewardship
- Extend hospitality to our guests visiting the Tennessee Aquarium
- Self-schedule online through the Volgistics portal
- Contact the Education Department Team if you are unable to work your scheduled shift.
TRAINING
- Attend all 6 group training sessions that will be held on Tuesday Evenings
SHIFTS
Shifts are offered seven days a week for both Adults & Teens:
- 9:30am-12:00pm / 11:30am-2:00pm / 1:30pm-4:00pm
COMMITMENT
Adults: Commit to 1 full year of service. Volunteer a minimum of one 2.5 hour shifts three times a month and must include one weekend shift a month. Total of 7.5 hours a month that equals to 80 hours a year.
Teens: Commit to 6 months. Volunteer a minimum of one 2.5 hour shifts twice a month and must include one weekend shift a month. Total of 5 hours a month that equals to 50 hours a year.