Opportunities
We are glad you share an affinity for science and education! Our volunteer program at the main campus (Hermann Park) is currently seeking volunteers ages 18+ to lead tours and other programming with children during the week! If that does not sound like you, please check back at a later date to see future offerings.
If you are a teen, please check out our teen page here.
Be a Docent!
At HMNS, docents serve as both teachers and tour guides for visitors. Teaching experience is not necessary, and training for each of the exhibit halls and docent positions is provided. We are currently seeking volunteers for these specific programs for an upcoming volunteer orientation. If you are not interested in participating in these programs, we hope you will check back another time.
- HISD 4th Grade Tour Docent Program: This program is designed for the 4th graders of the Houston Independent School District. Students come in Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. during the school year for 45-minute tours of Paleontology and at least one additional permanent exhibit hall. There are two tours each day. Our most routine program! Docents often commit for a semester at a time. (For example, every Friday or 2nd & 4th Fridays, etc.)
- Permanent Hall Tours: Lead specifically requested tours of the Museum’s permanent exhibit halls. These are booked on demand, but are often for school groups on field trips weekdays between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Early Investigations (EI), pre-K through 5th grade Program: Help young minds become interested in science. Docents lead the students on a tour of an exhibit hall, and then take them back to the classroom for hands-on classroom learning. This is booked on demand. When booked, time slot is 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. unless otherwise specified.
Ready to interview to be a volunteer at the main campus (Hermann Park)? Fill in the form here and you will be contacted to set up an interview. Thank you!
Volunteer at our Satellite Facilities!
Our Hermann Park location isn’t the only place for volunteers! Check out our satellite locations and the amazing opportunities they offer! For more information about volunteering at our satellite facilities, please contact Kavita Self at kself@hmns.org.
- George Observatory at Brazos Bend State Park: See stars when you volunteer at the George Observatory at Brazos Bend State Park. This is a great opportunity for those interested in astronomy. Help visitors view the sky through telescopes, or work behind-the-scenes at this landmark facility. Learn more about the George Observatory here.
- Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land: A historic building offers a new world of exploration for area schools as well as the people of Fort Bend County. In addition to exhibits on Paleontology and Space Science, the new Hall of Technology exhibit features chemistry, geology, energy, and salt. Learn more about volunteering at HMNS at Sugar Land here.