FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be a volunteer? Volunteers must be 15 years of age or older. Volunteers should be friendly, outgoing and enjoy working with people. Volunteers should have an interest in enhancing the public understanding and enjoyment of science and technology.
Is there a minimum time commitment to volunteer? Volunteers are asked for a minimum service commitment of 2 shifts per month. To remain consistent with your volunteer role you should be coming on a monthly basis. Volunteers without service for three months will lose their volunteer status at the Fleet. No service verifications are signed until the minimum service commitments are met.
How long is each volunteer shift? Volunteer shift times generally range from 2 to 4 hours. Certain positions, such as Event Ambassador, require weekend or evening availability. Tinkering Studio has an afternoon availability, while the Education Department has mainly morning availability. For Museum Ambassador or Gallery Facilitator, the availability is anywhere within museum hours. Please refer to the current openings for the specifics related to each position. Many are flexible in their scheduling requirements and allow you to pick a regular shift or volunteer as you are available, while still meeting the minimum time commitment.
What are your policies regarding Covid? Staff/volunteers must wear a face mask in the museum when in close contact (6 feet or less) with others. Volunteers must either be vaccinated against Covid or undergo testing to volunteer at the Fleet.
What qualifications do volunteers need? We are looking for volunteers who:
- Are energetic, outgoing and friendly, with enthusiasm and interest in the Fleet Science Center
- Can work independently and be flexible in a variety of settings
- Have a keen interest in lifelong learning
- Are excited to work in a dynamic environment with people of all ages, backgrounds and opinions
- Come prepared and are dependable and punctual
Do I need a science background? No! For most positions your enthusiasm, love of learning and willingness to help is all that is needed.
Will I be trained before I start my volunteer work? Yes! Once your application is accepted, all potential volunteers must attend an orientation. From then on new volunteers are placed in a mentorship program where they complete a minimum of three shifts alongside an experienced volunteer. We encourage you to be curious and ask a lot of questions, and we will work hard to make sure you have all the support you need to succeed.
What are the benefits of volunteering at the Fleet?
- Free admission to the galleries and theater shows on the days of your shifts
- Earn free passes to the Fleet each month
- A 30% discount at the North Star Science Store and Craveology
- Invitations to Fleet parties, other special events, lectures and workshops (with free or discounted admission)
- Gain new skills and experience
- Meet interesting people from all around the world
- Satisfaction of providing service to the community
- Achievement of your personal and professional goals
- Recognition and gratitude for your service
Are there opportunities for students to volunteer over the summer/winter? Yes! Volunteer opportunities are available year-round.
Is there a volunteer uniform? All volunteers must present a professional image while on duty at the Fleet. For positions that interact with our guests, we require volunteers to wear a Fleet-furnished volunteer shirt with black pants or capris. Volunteers working behind the scenes may wear business casual clothing or follow other guidelines provided by their department. All volunteers and interns must wear closed-toe shoes.
Will I be standing for a long period of time? Most of the guest-facing volunteer positions may require long periods of standing. If needed, accommodation can be made upon request.
Is parking free? Free parking is available in a convenient adjacent parking lot south of the Fleet Science Center, as well as in several other nearby lots. Parking is available on a first come basis. Parking lots are the property of the City of San Diego, and rules for usage are subject to changes enacted by the City. There is parking on the street after 9:00 a.m.
Is the Fleet on a public transit route? The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (SDMTS) provides bus service to Balboa Park. The #7 bus stops near the Fleet on Park Boulevard. Routes 3 and 120 stop on the other side of Balboa Park on Laurel. Visit www.sdmts.com to plan your route.
Anything else? If we haven't covered your question above, please email us for more information.
