Volunteer

Applications NOW OPEN for Volunteer Divers!

Apply by January 31, 2025

For the volunteer diver, volunteers must:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Be a U.S. citizen or alien with legal right to work in the U.S.
• Possess an Open Water SCUBA Certification (or higher) from a recognized Agency.
• With a minimum of 15 dives.
• Be able to stand for 3 or more hours at a time.
• Be able to regularly lift 60 lbs.
• Current CPR/AED/First Aid certified or be certified by MSAQ Dive operations team.
• Interview with the Dive Operations Team
• Pass a dive physical (at your own expense)
• Pass a written test
• Pass a swim test
• Pass a dive skills evaluation.
• Purchase a full wetsuit for use only at Mississippi Aquarium. (Discount available when purchased through MSAQ)
• Possess a current DAN Dive Accident Insurance policy.
• Commit to 12 months of volunteer diving. (Minimum of 8 hours/month or two dive shifts/month)
• Must pay a one-time volunteer fee of $75
• Pass background check
• Pass drug test
• Accepted into the Volunteer Dive Program, determined by MSAQ selection committee

APPLY NOW

TIDAL Applications for Spring 2025 Semester are now closed.

Tidal program starts February 22, 2025.

Stay tuned on Mississippi Aquarium Social Media channels for the Fall 2025 Semester dates for the TIDAL (Teen Volunteer) Program.

Are you age 18 or older? Adult volunteer details below!

Volunteers help create memorable experiences for our guests while sharing the Aquatic Wonders and inspiring curiosity in the aquatic community. As a non-profit organization, volunteers enable us to enhance the education, conservation, and community programs that support the Aquarium's mission.
The Adult Volunteer Program (age 18+) is designed for individuals interested in giving back to the community, sharing a passion for the aquatic world surrounded by like-minded individuals, and having fun! Applicants must be able to work independently in a fast-paced environment and understand the crucial role accredited aquariums play in education, conservation, and research. This program requires a longer-term commitment and is not designed for one-time only opportunities.

Some of our available volunteer positions include:

• Welcome Host: Greet guests, answer questions, and foster an awe-inspiring experience for every single guest
• Aquarium Ambassador: Learn about our living collection and educate guests
• Mascot and Handler: Help Bayou Otter come to life for special events!
• Horticulture – Beautify our campus with our excellent Facilities team
• Administrative Assistant – Organize and assist various team members with behind-the-scenes tasks

And more!

Requirements and Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Be a U.S. citizen or alien with the legal right to work in the U.S.
• Submit an online application
• Attend a scheduled information session before the start of service
• Pass a background check
• Submit a one-time $40 fee
• Commit to volunteering a minimum of 4 hours/month or 25 hours within six (6) months
• Sign and return all required paperwork, and participate in area-specific training
• Have a working knowledge of computers and/or smart devices with access to email
• Volunteer independently in a customer-oriented environment
• Be passionate about aquatic life and conservation

Volunteer Application

APPLY NOW

Volunteers Sign-in

Our Corporate and Group Volunteer Program is designed for businesses or organizations looking to give back to the community by volunteering either one-time or on a rotational basis. Volunteering can include various activities, and groups often assist us with large, on-campus events. We can accommodate most group sizes, but all participants must sign a liability waiver to volunteer.