Volunteer with AWSC

 

Volunteers play a key role in carrying out the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s mission. Volunteers help to educate and guide visitors through our Shark Center in Chatham, engage with the public while assisting at outreach events, and help with our gift shop operations/administrative duties. We currently do not have any on-the-water or field research volunteer opportunities.

Volunteering with AWSC will provide valuable hands-on experience with environmental education and science communication activities. Some other perks include receiving a discount on purchases in the AWSC gift shop, participation in volunteer appreciation events, and an opportunity to be part of our community!

Click on each tab for more information on the different types of available volunteer roles! Please note - you can sign up for one or even multiple roles!

  • Volunteers will be in the exhibit hall engaging with the public both in answering questions and proactively starting conversations about the exhibits. Volunteers may be on their feet for extended time periods. (Age: 17+)

  • Volunteers will be responsible for assisting staff in the management of the outdoor fossil dig area by creating shark tooth necklaces for guests. Volunteers will be outside under a shaded area and on their feet for an extended period of time. Please note - this volunteer role is only available during our summer and early fall seasons. (Age: 13+)

  • Volunteers will be responsible for operating checkout from the shop, restocking the space from the downstairs storage area, and maintaining the organization of the shop. Volunteers may be required to lift and move boxes up/down stairs, and may be on their feet for extended time periods. (Age: 15+)

  • Our education team is always looking for volunteers to help share white shark research with the community. We participate in community events or festivals, where we can set up a table and learning experience for families to engage. These events vary throughout the year and may require the ability to lift educational gear (up to 20 Ibs), and to be on your feet for extended time periods. (Age: 18+)

To get started, please fill out a volunteer application form. Volunteers are required to go through an orientation program prior to volunteering. We offer orientation programs throughout the year, as new volunteers are brought on.

Requirements:

  • Volunteers must complete a training program once per year.

  • Volunteers must be comfortable speaking with the public.

  • Volunteers must be at least 13 years of age.

    • Volunteers under 18 years of age must have permission forms signed by parents/guardians prior to starting. (Forms will be provided prior to training.)

  • Volunteers 18 years or older must pass a CORI check before beginning volunteering.

Time Commitment:

  • For those looking to volunteer in positions interacting with the public during our regular business hours (exhibit hall, fossil pit, and shop volunteers), we ask that you commit to at least one shift (morning or afternoon) per week. This shift will be the same each week. In many cases, volunteers are asked to commit to this shift for approximately two straight months before the schedule changes.

  • For those looking to volunteer for outreach events or special projects, time commitment is minimal and as you are available.