Volunteer

At the Aquarium, our TIDAL Teens don’t just observe — they dive right into the action!

This hands-on volunteer program gives teens a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep an Aquarium running, while helping them build real-world skills in a fun, supportive environment.

Highlights of the Program:

• Create Your Own Schedule: Flexible scheduling that fits your school and life.
• Start Strong: First-semester students assist with interpretation and guest engagement on campus.
• Grow Each Semester: Returning students unlock new roles and opportunities around the Aquarium.
• Parent Participation: We encourage and value active involvement from parents including a special Parent Orientation night.
• Build Your Future: Gain resume-worthy experience and practical skills.
• Career Exploration: Shadow staff during Career Week and get insights into marine biology, animal care, education, marketing and more.
• Professional Prep: Applications, Interviews, Training and real-world experience lay the foundation for future job opportunities to work with us!
• Perks: Free T-shirt, Graduation Night celebration, and more!

Whether you're passionate about marine life, science, education, tourism, or simply want to grow your confidence and experience, Tidal Teens is your first step toward a fin-tastic future!

This program runs February 27th - May 30th, 2026.

• Parent Night - Friday, February 27 ^th from 5:15 pm to 7:00 pm. Both a parent/guardian and the participating teen must attend.
• Training Day - Saturday, February 28 ^th from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Participating teen must attend.
• Training Evening - Wednesday, March 11 ^th from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm. Participating teen must attend.

Applications NOW OPEN for Volunteer Divers!

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

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

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

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 APPLICATIONS

Volunteer Diver Application

Adult Volunteer Application

Current Volunteers Sign-in