General Volunteer Programs

Make Waves at Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium’s General Volunteer Program provides various opportunities for individuals aged 18 and older to inspire our millions of guests each year, share passion for the aquatic world and join other conservation-minded individuals in the Atlanta area to make a difference in the community.

Volunteer Requirements

18 years or older
U.S. citizen, or hold a current work visa, student visa, or green card
Commit to at least 100 hours per 12 months
Ability to pass a background check
Ability to submit a $60 Volunteer Membership fee
Great communication and interpersonal skills
Passionate about aquatic life and conservation
Can volunteer independently in a fast-paced environment
Secure own transportation

Please Note: Because we communicate mainly via email, volunteers should have a working knowledge of computers and/or smart devices.

Volunteer Opportunities with the Public

With millions of guests visiting each year, we are always looking for volunteers to create exceptional guest experiences in the following ways:

Guest Assistance
Welcome guests, offer directions, provide general information and assistance at the Information Desk, support entertainment operations and assist with presentation seating.
Exhibit Interpretation
Answer questions and enthusiastically engage guests about our living collection in front of exhibits and touch pools, connect guests to the exhibit and its conservation story and facilitate scripted narrations on microphones.
Education
Greet school groups and/or Camp H2O attendees, assist educations with classroom/program activities and prepare activity supplies.

Volunteer Opportunities Behind-the-Scenes

It takes a dedicated individual to maintain the high level of care given to our living collection and exhibits! Opportunities are limited and require some prerequisites such as on-site training, at least 50 completed volunteer hours at Georgia Aquarium and interview. Volunteers can assist in the following ways:

Animal Care
Prepare animal diets, clean/scrub habitats and equipment and assist with supervised environmental enrichment.
Exhibit & Building Support
Collect and test water samples, respond to exhibit and building maintenance needs and clean equipment including filters, skimmers and pipes.
Volunteer Diver
Maintain habitats from within, clean and maintain dive equipment, engage guests during dive shows are more. (Please see below for requirements)

Dive Volunteer Applicant Requirements

Must have outside dive certification, dive experience, ability to pass a swim and dive test & interview, complete on-site training classes and submit to a medical examination & its associated fee. Not all dive applicants are accepted, thus we ask for your commitment in other areas listed above.

More Information

Shifts & Commitment
Each volunteer commits to serving at least 100 hours per 12 months. Otherwise, a $60 payment towards the Volunteer Membership fee will be required the following year to continue in the program.
Please Note:
- Some positions require recurring weekly or monthly commitments.
- Most shifts are four hours long.
Training
Volunteers will receive on-the-job training and can complete on-site training courses to get involved at Georgia Aquarium in other or more advanced capacities.
Application Process
1. After reviewing this website, click the yellow “Apply” button to register for an Information Session.
2. Complete the form to register to attend a Georgia Aquarium Volunteer Information Session.
- Registration closes 48 hours before the scheduled date. No new applicants will be accepted within 48 hours of the scheduled date.
- Space is limited. We ask you only register for the one session you can attend.
- Cancellations and date change requests can be emailed to volunteer@georgiaaquarium.org.
3. You will receive an email two days before your scheduled Information Session detailing directions, what to bring and more.
4. At the session, you will learn about our volunteer program, including opportunities, benefits, requirements, commitment, etc.
5. If your interests match our needs and you are interested in joining our team, within one week of your session, you will be sent instructions to complete:
- An online registration
- An online background check within 72 hours
- A $60 payment for your Volunteer Membership fee
6. After you successfully clear the background check, submit your application and fee, you will receive information regarding signing up for Orientation.
7. Upon completing Orientation, you can begin volunteering and complete additional training!
Please Note: The volunteer onboarding process typically takes 1-2 months. The Volunteer Programs team will keep you informed at each step via email.
Uniform
All volunteers are required to wear a designated branded uniform top during shifts and adhere to the uniform policy. The initial volunteer uniform shirt is provided by the Aquarium.
Benefits
In exchange for your time and hard work, you will enjoy a unique volunteer experience in a fun environment with other conservation-minded individuals. You are creating magical memories for millions for guests every year while spreading awareness of our beautiful and mysterious aquatic creature.
Additionally, benefits of volunteering at Georgia Aquarium include:
- A Volunteer Membership Pass, valid for the duration of your volunteer time with Georgia Aquarium
- Discounts on merchandise in the gift shop, food/beverages within the Aquarium
- Discounts on Aquarium programs, tickets and tours
- Opportunities to earn complimentary General Admission tickets
- Award and recognition program
- Opportunities to learn such as training classes and lectures
- Opportunities to meet new people
- Giving back to the Atlanta community and inspiring a new generation of ocean conservationists