Volunteer

Docents are well-trained museum educators who have a robust understanding of fine art, history, architecture, and craftsmanship in addition to a detailed focus on the museum’s collection of miniatures. Docents lead tours for diverse groups including school children, families, clubs, and older adults and must be very comfortable with public speaking and audience engagement. Docents are imaginative, flexible, eager learners, and good listeners. No previous knowledge of miniatures is necessary. Aspiring docents must attend a season-long training that culminates in a practice test and practice tour. This position requires a two-year commitment.

Additional Requirements:

• Completion of the Docent training
• Minimum of a two-year commitment
• Museum Membership
• Excellent communication skills
• Comfortable with public speaking
• Desire to be a lifelong learner
• Weekly and monthly availability to lead tours
• Background check (and/or AZ Fingerprint Clearance Card)

Geared toward students ages 14 to 22 with interests in museums, miniatures, art, crafts, history, and culture. The Mini M.E. volunteer program is perfect for teen and young adult volunteers looking to engage with art, practice public speaking skills, and learn from artists and museum professionals.

Learn more about this program and how to apply here.

Education Support Volunteers assist in preparing craft projects – cutting, gluing, organizing, gathering supplies – while providing additional support to Education Instructors in art-based and craft programs such as Kids Create, Summer Camp, and Tinker Workshops. 

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to work as a member of a team
• Great communication skills
• Creative with an interest in crafts or art
• Welcoming attitude

Guest Services Volunteers are the welcoming face of The Museum, acting as Gallery Monitors and/or Event Support. These positions are the best way to start as a volunteer as these roles introduce the volunteer to museum staff, collections, and facility while working directly with museum guests. Museum policies and an introduction/orientation will be provided.

Additional Requirements:

• Comfortable interacting with the public
• An understanding of the museum’s rules and policies
• Introductory knowledge of the museum, museum programming, and upcoming events

Museum Operations Volunteers spend more time behind-the-scenes than they do interacting with the public. Hours are more flexible, and projects are coordinated depending on organizational needs. Potential projects may depend on the skills and background of the volunteer and may vary from academic research or records organization to building maintenance. 

Additional Requirements:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365
• General understanding of current technology and analog office equipment
• Follows directions
• Works well in teams, but can get work done independently
• Willingness to accomplish a variety of tasks
• If interested in Facility Support: must be able to bend, reach, lift objects