Volunteer
Volunteer Today to Impact Tomorrow.
Join us at Kamin Science Center for a one-of-a-kind volunteer experience! We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to explore the naval history of USS Requin (SS 481), share the stories behind our Miniature Railroad & Village®, engage visitors in our exhibit galleries, help during events, and much more.
No science expertise is required, just a sense of fun and a desire to learn! Our volunteer team is made up of people of all ages, abilities, interests, and backgrounds, from STEM professionals to stay-at-home parents.
Already a Volunteer?
Adult Volunteers
Good Things to Know
Most adult volunteer positions require a minimum time commitment of six months. Weekly and monthly time commitments vary by position.
Most positions require a minimum commitment of four hours per week. Our museum event volunteer role (for adults only) offers more flexible scheduling.
Every position is centered around providing an exceptional visitor experience.
All volunteers must complete an orientation before starting.
After receiving applications, we’ll review them and make contact with those selected for an interview.
Adult volunteer onboarding pauses from April through August.
Clearances
Upon acceptance into the program, all volunteers are required to provide and pay for background checks and clearances.
Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania for at least 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34).
Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania for less than 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34) plus an FBI Fingerprint Clearance (Act 114). Act 33 and 34 Clearances are free for volunteers.
Teen Volunteers
Teen volunteers engage with visitors by being friendly, assisting with incredible demonstrations, and much more. No science background is needed, just a sense of curiosity and fun, and a thirst to learn. We provide the training for all positions, and teens from all backgrounds are welcome. To apply to our Teen Volunteer Program, click here to complete an online application 
or download an application to email or mail . Teens must be at least 14 years old by the application deadline to be considered for a teen volunteer position. Late applications will not be considered.
Applications are currently closed.
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Applications for the Summer Teen Program will open in January. The application deadline for the Summer Teen Program is April 1. Interviews and selections will occur in April.
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Applications for the School Year Teen Program will open in May. The application deadline for the School Year Teen Program is August 1. Interviews and selections will occur in August.
We appreciate your interest in opportunities with Kamin Science Center and look forward to reviewing your application. Due to the high volume of submissions received, we are unable to respond to inquiries regarding the status of individual applications. Opportunities are filled on an as-needed basis. We contact applicants with the required skills, interests, and availability when openings arise. If you are selected as a final candidate for an opportunity, the Volunteer Office will contact you directly to schedule an interview.
An Incredible Opportunity to Volunteer and Grow!
Are you between the ages of 14 and 18? We want you to come volunteer with us and experience more than you ever thought possible! It’s the perfect way to learn amazing new skills, make really good friends, and build up those references for your college applications or career exploration—all while giving back to your community and having fun!
Bring a Great Attitude, We’ll Provide the Rest.
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No science expertise needed—all you need is a great attitude and a yearn to learn.
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Whatever your knowledge or experience, we provide full training for all positions.
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We also provide an amazing chance to share the world of science with others while gaining invaluable experience.
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If accepted into the program, teens must complete a required orientation before they can begin to volunteer.
We Accept New Teen Volunteers Twice Annually:
Summer Session
Most positions require teens to volunteer for one or two four-hour shifts per week to build up to 50 hours.
Summer Camps and BNY Fab Lab Kamin Science Center require teens to volunteer for two full weeks of summer camps, Monday-Friday, full days.
School-Year Session
Teens are required to volunteer for one four-hour shift per week throughout the school year to build up to 100 hours.
Upon acceptance into the program, all teens must complete background checks, which differ based on age and residency.
All teens under 18 must go through a background check.
The cost is free for teens under 18.
All teens 18 and over must provide and pay for background checks and clearances.
Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania for at least 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34).
Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania for less than 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34) plus an FBI Fingerprint Clearance (Act 114). Act 33 and 34 Clearances are free for volunteers.
Volunteer Opportunities
Adult and Teen Volunteer Opportunities
Animals & Habitats
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Share facts about aquarium fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates with visitors. Educate and engage guests by discussing various species and their ecosystems.
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Assist in the behind-the-scenes care and maintenance of aquariums and habitat areas.
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Gain hands-on experience in the daily responsibilities of an animal keeper.
Take visitors on a journey to the far reaches of the galaxy.
Greet and engage with visitors, making their planetarium visit unforgettable.
Present hands-on astronomy activities to visitors.
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Assist staff behind the scenes to prepare for exciting shows.
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Engage visitors with hands-on science activities through interactive demos.
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Help facilitate our electrifying live programming in our Works Theater, and have a smashing good time with large audiences at the Science Stage.
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Present captivating demos and welcome guests to experience the coolest shows on earth.
Join the Fab Lab, a dynamic workshop for learning, creativity, and innovation where imagination meets invention.
Collaborate with staff to showcase the power of 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC milling machines in hands-on demonstrations.
Assist students in troubleshooting their projects, offering guidance and support through the design and fabrication process.
Gallery Experiences
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Engage with visitors on the exhibit floors and help them have fun learning science.
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Spark curiosity at over 100 interactive exhibits for both kids and adults, creating fun and educational experiences.
Join the tradition by guiding visitors through our Miniature Railroad & Village®, an iconic display that showcases the rich history and culture of Western Pennsylvania.
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Greet guests, take tickets, and assist in the concession stand to ensure a seamless experience.
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Help maintain the theater and contribute to creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.
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Present engaging demonstrations related to the content of featured films, adding an interactive element to every movie experience.
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Assist visitors in choosing which films to watch by providing helpful information and recommendations.
Visitor Services
Make a great first impression by greeting visitors as they arrive at the Science Center.
Provide informative answers to a variety of questions about the Science Center and the Greater Pittsburgh area.
Help create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages exploration and discovery.
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Demonstrate gift shop merchandise to visitors in the store, lobby, and outdoor areas.
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Assist visitors in selecting the perfect souvenir to take home.
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Support other XPLOR Store team members with various retail functions.
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Enhance the shopping experience by providing excellent customer service and product knowledge.
Adult-Only
Volunteer Opportunities
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Empower the next generation of students in STEM as a mentor with Mentors in the Making.
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Collaborate with high school students on digital fabrication projects, including a community-impact capstone project.
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Learn about 3D printing, laser cutting, electronics, and other CNC machines.
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Sessions run from November through April on weekday evenings.
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Discover how our Cold War submarine operates and share insights about life onboard USS Requin (SS 481) submarine with visitors.
Museum Event Volunteer
Interested in sharing your love of science with the public but unable to make a regular weekly commitment? The Museum Events Volunteer Team offers flexible scheduling to assist with daytime, evening, and weekend events.
Present hands-on science activities, direct visitors throughout the building, and support staff during events to enhance the overall experience for visitors.
Events include 21+ Nights, Teen Nights, STEM programming, and more!
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Contact Us
Have questions about volunteering at Kamin Science Center? Fill out our contact form below or call 412.237.1621.