Volunteer Today!
Da Vinci Science Center’s Volunteer Program serves as the cornerstone of our commitment to innovation and generosity. Members of our external community are invited to actively contribute to our mission of bringing science to life and lives to science by enriching visitor experiences and fostering engagement.
Through service-oriented opportunities, volunteers play a vital role in driving our institution’s growth, promoting inclusivity, and creating memorable experiences for our visitors.
Exhibit Floor Volunteers
Minimum 16 years of age
Interested applicants should be outgoing, scientifically-minded, and kid-friendly. Volunteers greet visitors, make them feel welcome, and encourage their active exploration of the Science Center.
Volunteers bring their passion, skills, and special talents to help provide a fun, engaging, and inclusive experience for visitors. They engage in varying roles, like greeting and directing visitors, engaging interest in exhibits, and showing touchable objects and pocket science.
Time Commitment/Hours
Must commit to a consistent, regular schedule of at least two shifts per month for a minimum of six months.
Shift times: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 1-5 p.m., on days when Da Vinci Science Center is open.
Volunteer Benefits
- Become part of a diverse team of innovative, life-long learners who play a special part in bringing science to life and lives to science.
- Gain hands-on experience and mentorship, especially for volunteers with a career interest in the museum or STEAM fields.
- Offers flexible scheduling and ongoing training.
- Upon completion of 20 hours of volunteer service, receive a complimentary Single Membership to Da Vinci Science Center, giving you access to more than 300 science and technology centers worldwide through the ASTC Passport Program. After 40 hours of volunteer service, have the option to upgrade to a Family Membership.
- Receive recognition awards and participate in social events.
- 10% discount in Leo’s Cafe
How to Apply
Step 1: Submit an Application
Submit your application online. We’ll use the information you provide to better understand your skills, goals, and motivations for volunteering. We try to match your skills with available volunteer opportunities, but positions are not guaranteed. If we find your application is a match for our program, we will contact you to move on to orientation and training.
Step 2: Clearances
We work closely with children on a regular basis and require all volunteers to complete the PA Child Abuse Clearances and Criminal Record Check, which are free for volunteers. Instructions on how to complete these will be provided.
Step 3: Orientation and Training
Da Vinci Science Center provides an in-person orientation and all volunteers are required to attend before moving forward and completing a shift on their own. This orientation introduces volunteers to the Science Center’s culture, provides an understanding of expectations, and presents an opportunity to explore the museum.
Please keep in mind that volunteers cannot begin to start scheduling shifts until they have attended an orientation session and have completed their clearances. After successful completion of these, they will be issued a volunteer t-shirt and can start signing up for volunteer shifts using their VicNet account. They will also have the opportunity to conduct on-the-job training and shadowing.
Corporate or Group Volunteering
Da Vinci Science Center has opportunities for companies, organizations, or college groups to volunteer and assist with fun and rewarding service projects.
Projects vary based on Science Center needs, but may include assisting visitors on the exhibit floor, special events, behind-the-scenes prep, hands-on activity facilitation, and other projects working with our Operations, Visitor Services, or Education departments.
We provide training, activates, and supplies. You provide the enthusiasm and love of science!
Project availability may vary. Please contact us to discuss options.
