Volunteer
Open today 10 am – 5 pm
Since 1887, the Museum has depended on volunteer help for many of its projects and much of its development. Today, more than 100 volunteers participate regularly, making important contributions to the Museum. Some volunteers come in daily, and many have served for 10 or more years!
If you are interested in volunteering at the Penn Museum, please review the volunteer opportunities listed and then submit an application for a specific opportunity. Applications will only be considered for these opportunities. The Penn Museum’s volunteer needs vary throughout the year. If you don’t see a position that is a good fit or of particular interest to you now, please plan to check back at a future time. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis unless otherwise noted.
Or contact us at volunteer@pennmuseum.org or 215.573.9107
Position Description: Cartifacts is an informal, in-gallery public program that provides hands-on experiences for Penn Museum visitors of all ages. Cartifact Volunteers set up displays of 5-10 touchable artifacts at carts located in the Museum’s galleries and explain the function and history of each object. Each cart is focused on a gallery theme. Cartifact Volunteers lead visitors in short-term discussions utilizing open-ended questions.
Qualifications: This volunteer opportunity is open to adults and mature high school students. To volunteer, students must be at least 15 years old. An ideal Cartifact Volunteer demonstrates good listening and conversational skills, is interested in learning about the material and the Penn Museum’s collections.
Required Training: Volunteers will study the training manual of the cart of their choice for up to two weeks. After two weeks, Cartifact Volunteers will be tested on their familiarity with the objects and their ability to facilitate discussions with visitors about the material.
Requirements: Commitment for at least two 2-hour shifts per month is required. Cartifact Volunteers may be scheduled for any hours during the following times: Tuesday-Sunday 10 am-4 pm or for special evening events.