Volunteer Opportunities
Learn something new, share what you know and do what you love!
Are you interested in making a difference? Our dedicated team of volunteers helps the Ocean Institute teach through hands on experiences every day! With a variety of specialized Volunteer Roles, we are sure to have an opportunity that is just right for you. A complete list of descriptions and minimum qualifications are outlined below.
VOLUNTEER AT OCEAN INSTITUTE
Volunteer Review Process:
Volunteers applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and the review process is conducted on a quarterly basis following the below schedule. Once your application is submitted, you can expect to hear from Ocean Institute during the next application review period.
How To Apply:
Begin by identifying your areas of interest and familiarizing yourself with our Volunteer Roles, listed below. In order to volunteer, please submit an application online at the link below. All applications will receive a response! Once your application is submitted, you can expect to hear from Ocean Institute during the next application review period (per the above schedule).
General Requirements:
- Applicants must complete at least 6 hours per month
- Applicants must be willing to commit to at least one year of service
Volunteer Opportunities:
Public Programs Docent
Public Program Docents are the heart and soul of our visitor experience. These individuals serve as interpreters, exhibit facilitators and continually inspire members of the community through hands-on marine and maritime education.
Requirements:
- Applicants must be at least 14 years of age
- Applicants must complete at least two shifts per month
- Applicants must be willing to commit to at least one year of
service - These shifts are available Sat-Sun from 9:30AM-12:30PM & 12:00PM-3:00PM as well as during special events and holidays
School Programs Docent
School Programs Docents work alongside staff in a variety of our school field trip programs. Programs are with students from pre-K to 3rd grade and 4th-6th grade.
Requirements:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age
- Applicants must possess a four-year degree
- Applicants must pass a live scan background check
- Applicants must have weekday availability from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Shifts are 2-3 hours and rarely 4 hours long.
Maritime Education Docents
Maritime Education Docents serve as interpreters at our Maritime History Center. This is the home of historic maritime artifacts including many from our own Brig Pilgrim. These individuals are also responsible for answering questions from the public, collecting donations and encouraging guests to visit Ocean Institute.
Requirements:
- Applicants must be at least 16 years of age
- These shifts are available Mon-Sun from 10:00AM-2:00PM
Maritime Crew Volunteers
Crew volunteers maintain and repair Ocean Institute’s historic tall ship, the Spirit of Dana Point. From woodworking, painting, oiling, and varnishing, to rigging and sailing skills, these volunteers work to ensure the upkeep of the 18th-century style schooner. Volunteers will primarily participate in dockside maintenance, mostly on Saturday mornings, and may have the opportunity to be involved in educational/sailing programs.
Requirements:
- Applicants must be at least 16 years of age
- Applicants must have availability from either 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM on Weekdays or 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Weekends
Tidepool Interpretive Program (TIP) Docents
TIP Docents educate tidepool visitors about the wonderful natural resources present along our coastline in a way that promotes environmental stewardship. This program occurs outdoors, with its home base behind the Ocean Institute at the entryway to the beautiful Marine Protected Area (MPA). The program operates on a varied schedule during daytime low tides, when the marine resources are most vulnerable (but also most visible).
Requirements:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age
- Applicants must have 3-4 hours of availability from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (weekdays) and/or 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (weekend)
- All TIP Docents must also complete the Orange County Marine Protected Area Council (OCMPAC) Tidepool Volunteer Training, held twice a year – inquire for dates.
Information Booth & Gift Shop Docents
Volunteers assist in greeting all visitors to Ocean Institute. Volunteers direct and manage flow of multiple groups to ensure a timely and safe welcome. During public program hours, you will check-in members or those with pre-purchased tickets, and provide information about the offerings. Throughout the day, Information Booth volunteers serve as Ocean Institute ambassadors by providing information and directions about programs and facilities available, as well as information about the Dana Point harbor. Volunteers can also assist with daily gift shop functions as needed, such as provide excellent and informative customer service, stock items, tidy up stocked items, and be able to inform guests of our current offerings.
Requirements:
- Applicants must be at least 15 years of age
- These shifts are only available during gift shop hours (9:30am-3:00pm)
VOLUNTEER APPLICATION:
Please take your time filling out the application below. Once submitted you will not be able to edit your responses.
Beach Cleanup Opportunities
Looking to give back to the ocean and your community? Join us for a two hour Beach Cleanup!
Ocean Institute beach cleanups removed over 1,700 pounds of trash in 2019. Help us prevent even more trash from entering our ocean in 2020. Please wear closed toed shoes and bring a refillable water bottle. Those 16 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Ocean Institute will provide trash pickers and compostable bags!
Beach Cleanups are offered in partnership with Stand Up To Trash.