Interpretation Volunteer Assistant

Established in 1981, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. The Aquarium’s award-winning habitats are home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. We are proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and exceed industry standards in all aspects of animal care and welfare.

Job Title : Interpretation Volunteer Assistant

Posting Date : September 8, 2025

Job Department : Volunteer Engagement

Schedule : Full Time

Job Type : On-site

Location : National Aquarium Pier 3 501 E Pratt St Baltimore, MD 21202

Description

JOB SUMMARY :

The National Aquarium is seeking an Interpretation Volunteer Assistant responsible for administrative tasks in support of interpretation volunteers. Including but not limited to onboarding and offboarding, data entry, training, internal events and volunteer appreciation. Maintain inventory of volunteer office supplies and storeroom organization. Supervises unpaid interpretation staff on the floor and facilitates pre-shift and post shift check ins. Communicates daily updates. Maintains familiarity with regular Exhibit Guide and Youth Exhibit Guide floor posts by filling in as needed for shift support, demonstrating unique, engaging, conservation-focused interactions with Aquarium Guests. Delivers onboarding and continuing education training for adult and youth exhibit guide volunteers. Regularly works a minimum of one weekend day and occasionally works nights and special events.

KEY REQUIREMENTS :

Assists in the administrative tasks of the Volunteer Engagement Department

Maintains interpretation volunteer records in Salesforce, ensuring ongoing accuracy of records.

Supports reporting on interpretation volunteers and maintenance of daily rosters.

Oversees volunteer office supplies in main supply closet and cabinets, coordinates with Administrative Services Partner to ensure supplies are routinely stocked.

Delivers training and assists in supervision of interns, and interpretation volunteers –both adult and youth.

Assists manager and coordinator in onboarding.

Provides day-to-day coaching and supervision.

Addresses occasional minor behavior concerns, elevating larger concerns.

Create daily schedules for interns and exhibit guides that maximize learning opportunities as well as provide excellent guest engagement.

Provides input that assists in the evaluation of interns and volunteers.

Responsible for engagement with aquarium guests.

Includes interpreting at regular exhibit guide and youth exhibit guide stations, including immersive exhibits such as the Rainforest, Australia, and Living Seashore exhibits.

Occasionally assists in the coordination of special events.

Assists in upkeep and storage of program props and materials.

Support company mission.

Adhere to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.

Other duties as assigned or required.

QUALIFICATIONS :

• Required Degree or work experience in years).
• List all other requirements or preferred experience / knowledge / application / software / best practices in the field).

TOTAL COMPENSATION :

ABOUT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM

The National Aquarium is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. Our compelling exhibits, science-based education programs and hands-on field initiatives engage more than million people annually. One of the top three aquariums in the United States and the largest paid cultural attraction in Maryland, the Aquarium generates more than $430 million annually in economic impact to the state. The National Aquarium has hosted over 60 million guests since it opened in 1981.

Today, the National Aquarium builds on a history of local, regional and global conservation initiatives that provide real solutions for protecting marine life, ecosystems and aquatic communities. Its Animal Rescue team has rescued, rehabilitated and released hundreds of marine mammals and endangered sea turtles throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Its Animal Care and Welfare teams participate in important research efforts to confront pressing ocean conservation issues and advocate for smarter policies at local, state and federal levels. Through education, research, conservation action and advocacy, the National Aquarium is pursuing a vision to connect a global community of hopeful conservationists, united to restore our planet.