Get Involed - Volunteering

Operated through the Visitor Information and Associates’ Reception Center (VIARC), the Behind-the-Scenes Volunteer Program offers challenging alternatives to the more public-oriented volunteer activities. This program provides assistance to Smithsonian staff by recruiting and placing individuals who wish to contribute their time and expertise to specific areas of study within the Institution. Volunteers in this program work with staff members on both short-term and long-term projects. Opportunities are generally available in: archives; libraries; administrative offices; conservation laboratories; and curatorial divisions related to art, history, and science collections.

Placements are determined by matching volunteer qualifications, interests, knowledge, and availability with staff needs. Volunteer positions can be arranged in most disciplines and museums.

Upon completion of a written application and a personal interview, qualified applicants are referred to staff members for consideration. Training, if required, is provided by the project supervisor. A minimum time commitment of 6 hours per week during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, is requested for most projects.

Another behind-the-scenes opportunity is participating in Translation Services* through which volunteers assist Smithsonian staff by translating documents, correspondence, and journal articles. Translators generally work at home at their own pace, but occasionally, may be called upon to provide interpretation assistance for official visitors during meetings and conferences.

The Behind-the-Scenes Volunteer Program accepts applications and places individuals throughout the year. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older and able to work during business hours, Monday through Friday. The minimum time commitment is 80 hours of service per year, although most Behind-the-Scenes volunteers work many more hours. Volunteers are requested to provide at least 6 hours of service per week.

If you would like to apply to the Behind-the-Scenes Volunteer Program, please contact VIARC to request further information or an application form:

VIARC
SI Bldg., Rm. 153
Washington, DC 20560-0010

Smithsonian Information
(202) 633-1000 (voice); (202) 633-5285 (TTY)
Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
e-mail: info@info.si.edu, please provide postal address

Or print the application form and mail the completed form to the address above. You may include a résumé (maximum 2 pages), if you wish. Upon receiving your application, we will contact you to schedule an interview.