Volunteer

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

TIDAL Applications for Fall 2025 Semester are NOW CLOSED.

Spring 2026 TIDAL applications will be open from November 10th - December 31st.

Tidal program started August 10, 2025! Stay tuned on social media for a look at what he TIDAL Teens are up to this semester!

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!

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

Volunteer Diver Application

Interviews and Onboarding will be conducted each spring and fall.

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.