Georgia Aquarium Volunteer Program 2017

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Georgia Aquarium Volunteers

Georgia Aquarium's General Volunteer Program provides opportunities for individuals ages 18 and up to get highly involved in the Aquarium. This program allows you the ability to inspire our guests, share your passion for the aquatic world and make a difference by giving back to your local community.

Opportunities in our regular volunteer program include:

Guest Services - welcoming guests and assisting them with directions and general information about the Aquarium.

Gallery Interpretation - engaging and inspiring people from all ages and places in learning about aquatic life.

Activity Tables - getting our young guests involved in arts & crafts and older ones in conservation activities during their visit.

Education Programs - greeting and assisting with school field trip groups or children attending Camp H2O.

Behind the Scenes - assisting staff with repairs, water quality tests, animal care, or cleaning exhibits from the inside (diving!). Note that volunteers must volunteer at least 50 hours in the public area of the Aquarium, and complete any additional training required for their area of interest before interviewing to work behind the scenes. Some positions, such as diver, also require a volunteer to have outside certifications and experience.

Volunteer Requirements:

• 18 years or older
• U.S. citizen, or hold a current work visa, student visa or green card
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to pass a background check and provide contact information for two professional or academic references
• Ability to volunteer at least 100 hours per year, approximately 8 hours per month
• Note: We do not offer one-time community court-appointed or school service opportunities.

Application Process:

• You complete an online application. You will receive a confirmation email that we received it.
• Selected applicants will be invited to attend a Volunteer Information Session.
• You pay a non-refundable Administrative Fee of $60, sign a Volunteer Commitment Form and submit a copy of your current U.S. issued Photo ID.
• You complete an online background check within 72 hours of completion of the Volunteer Information Session.
• Applicants who clear background screening will be invited to attend an orientation class.
• You complete any other training classes and prerequisites required for your chosen position. If interested in a behind the scenes position, you must complete at least 50 volunteer hours prior to applying.
• Volunteer Program staff will communicate with you via e-mail or telephone to keep you informed as you move through the application and training process.

What else should I be aware of before I apply to volunteer?

• Volunteers must confirm and secure all necessary means of transportation before applying.
• Volunteers are required to follow the uniform guidelines and other policies and procedures of Georgia Aquarium.
• Each volunteer commits to serving at least 100 hours every year. Otherwise, a $60 Volunteer Membership fee will be required the following year to continue in the program.
• Most volunteer shifts are scheduled in four-hour increments.
• Volunteer positions are based on the interests of the volunteer, the skills required, scheduling, seniority and if required, an interview. Seniority is determined by the date the volunteer began his/her service and the number of hours served.