Volunteering Behind the Scenes | Natural History Museum of Los Angeles

Can you imagine preparing fossils for the Museum’s paleontology collection? Perhaps you see yourself cataloguing specimens for our Marine Biodiversity Center. Or maybe you have a passion for studying birds, or gems and minerals. The Natural History Museum research and education divisions have exciting but limited behind the scenes opportunities for Volunteers with special skills and aptitudes.

Volunteers help behind the scenes to prepare fossils and scientific specimens, conserve artifacts, and assist with research. Volunteers might also work behind the scenes in developing educational technology for students and teachers, as well as providing office support for various Museum projects.

Be a part of cutting edge research when you join our team of world class scientists and historians! Help to preserve the past for future generations while gaining practical experience related to your interests.

What are some things that Volunteers might do behind the scenes?

• Prepare specimens for ornithology, paleontology, marine biology, and Museum conservation.
• Assist experts in different fields of science and history.
• Catalogue authentic scientific specimens and historical objects.
• Data entry related to collections and research projects.
• Develop education technology for the Museum’s Mobile Outreach Program.
• Provide office support and program preparation for the Membership.

What does it take to volunteer behind the scenes?

• At least 16 years of age
• Availability weekdays for at least eight hours per week
• Aptitude for the specified research department’s work
• Ongoing, long-term commitment to the Museum
• Interest in working in a laboratory or office
• Desire to develop new skills and gain new knowledge
• Demonstrated respect for the value of scientific specimens and objects
• Strong attention to detail and quality of work performed