Volunteers

What is your recruitment process?

We recruit for advertised roles. You may browse the current roles we are recruiting for on this page and submit a volunteer application for a position that interests you. Positions and recruitment are seasonal. Not all volunteer positions recruit at the same time. Not all positions are available to youth volunteers.

• Adult Volunteers: Adults (18+) apply using the Volunteer Application form. References are not required for adults.  
• Youth Volunteers: Youth (ages 16-17) apply using the Youth Volunteer Application form. One reference is required, and the completed Youth Reference Form should be attached to your digital application.  

Once your application is received, it will be reviewed by the Volunteer Office, who will contact you shortly afterward. If we identify you as a match for the position, we will schedule an interview with the Volunteer Office and the supervisor for the role you are applying for. 

Once an initial offer of volunteer status has been made, a background check, including criminal record history, is conducted for those over 18 years of age. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude someone from volunteering but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability for the assignment. New volunteers are required to attend a volunteer orientation, and additional training may be required for specific volunteer assignments. Hour requirements vary per role. Please see descriptions for details.

If we cannot immediately place you in a volunteer position, your application will be kept on file for future opportunities.

Who can volunteer and how do you select? 

Anyone age 16 and above can volunteer. We select volunteers based on their application, interview, and availability for the role. Background checks are conducted for all individuals over 18 years of age. 

I'm living with a disability; how can I volunteer? 

We take all disabilities into consideration when developing and reviewing role descriptions. Volunteer roles require different abilities, and we will make reasonable adjustments to help you take part. If you are interested in a particular role, please submit your application and we can mutually determine the best way to move forward. If you have specific concerns or questions, please reach out to the Volunteer Office. Full details about accessibility at The Museum of Flight can be found here.

English is not my primary language, can I still volunteer? 

Yes, you can still volunteer. We welcome volunteers from diverse backgrounds and will provide support to help you communicate effectively in your role. However, please note that our ability to support all languages is limited due to the language skills of our staff and volunteers. We will do our best to support you, but proficiency in English is a benefit for most roles.  

Our volunteers speak 19 different languages. The most common languages are Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish, and German.  

I'm neurodivergent, how can I volunteer? 

We welcome neurodivergent volunteers and strive to create an inclusive environment. We can make specific adjustments to support your needs, such as flexible schedules, clear instructions, and a quiet workspace. Please contact us to discuss how we can best support you. 

Do I need experience in museums or the role I'm interested in to be a volunteer? 

No, you do not need prior experience in museums. We provide training and support to help you succeed in your volunteer position.

Do I need to be an aerospace expert? 

No, you do not need to be an aerospace expert. While some roles may benefit from specific knowledge, we provide training and resources to help you learn and grow in your volunteer position. We encourage anyone who believes in our mission and values to join!  

How much time do I need to give? 

The time commitment varies depending on the role. Some roles may require a regular weekly commitment, while others may be more flexible. To be an active volunteer at The Museum of Flight we ask for 8 hours a month.