New York Aquarium Docent Opportunities

Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS

Become a docent at the New York Aquarium and help staff exhibits, teach visitors about marine conservation, and assist at events and education programs. As a docent, you will have the opportunity to meet individuals from around the world and join a family of fellow volunteers, staff, and wildlife experts who share a passion for our natural world.

Docent responsibilities include:

  • Giving exhibit chats
  • Staffing information and craft tables during special events
  • Assisting Education Department instructors with school and family programs
  • Teaching visitors how to interact with horseshoe crabs and sea stars at our touch pool

Requirements

To get involved, print and fill out an application. You must be at least 15 years or older to apply. Admission to the program is competitive. After an interview and orientation, accepted candidates must complete an intensive training course, which takes place once a year, in the early summer. The training includes sessions on marine science, public speaking skills, and activities designed to foster good relations among docents. Applicants under age 18 must have a teacher fill out the recommendation form and a parent must sign it.

2010 Application Process & Summer Training Sessions

We will be accepting applications for the 2010 session between March 15th and May 18th, 2010. An interview is mandatory. We will call you to schedule an interview after we receive your application. Applications received after the May 18th deadline will not be considered. Once accepted into the docent program, you will be required to attend six (6) training sessions in summer 2010, which will run from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and take place on the following dates:

  • Saturday, June 26th, 2010
  • Sunday, June 27th, 2010
  • Tuesday, June 29th, 2010
  • Wednesday, June 30th, 2010
  • Thursday, July 1st, 2010
  • Friday, July 2nd, 2010

Download the application.

Contact
If you have any questions, please call (718) 265-3450, Monday through Friday, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or email nyadocent@wcs.org.