Positions
Click here for current volunteer and intern openings
General Requirements (All Volunteers and Interns)
All volunteers and interns are required to submit a complete application. Online applications are preferred and will have decreased processing time. Applicants will be notified via email if they are selected for an interview. Position offers are made based on successful interviews and reference checks.
Age Requirement: Junior volunteers must be 11 – 17 years old. Adult volunteers are 18+.
Time commitment: Volunteers are expected to work at minimum two shifts per month, for at least 3 months. Interns are expected to work at least 10 hours a week for a period of 12 weeks. Please see the Internships page for more details.
Expectations: As a VLM Volunteer, you are an important part of the team. As such, departments require notification of absences as early as possible, and no later than 48 hours before a shift (other than emergencies). Animal Care volunteers are only allowed 1 call out per month (with exceptions for emergencies and illness)
Training: All accepted volunteers and interns will complete an orientation before or on their start date. Department-specific training will also be provided.
Fees: There is no fee required for applying. As part of our screening process, adult applicants must complete an online background check with Verified Volunteers. The cost to applicants is $12.50. Financial aid is available. A link will be provided after successful reference checks.
Uniforms: All VLM volunteers and interns are required to wear an official VLM uniform. You have the option of wearing a VLM smock or purchasing a uniform shirt.
How to Apply: Please visit our Opportunity Directory. Each position links to the relevant application below the description. No walk-ins, please.
Please note: Volunteer placement at the Virginia Living Museum is subject to an official position offer, space availability, and completion of General Orientation. Parent or guardian permission is required for volunteers younger than 18 years of age.
Due to the high volume of applications, processing may take up to 1 month. Successful candidates will be contacted directly for an interview. Applications remain on file for 6 months.
Family & Youth Volunteering
Volunteers 11 – 17 years old are considered to be Junior Volunteers. Volunteers 11 – 14 years must volunteer with an adult guardian or relative. For more details, please visit our Youth page.
Departmental Minimum Age Requirements
Indoor and Outdoor Interpretation: Age 11+
Please note volunteers 11 – 14 years of age must volunteer with a parent or guardian.
Touch Pool: Age 16+
Astronomy, Museum Store, Green Teens: Age 15+
Animal Care, Horticulture, Internships: Age 18+
Special Event Positions: Minimum age requirements may vary by event. Please visit the position description for more details.