Job/Internship/Volunteer Opportunities

Dream of working with The Whale Museum? Here are some opportunities:

Employment Opportunities: 

Position: Visitors’ Experience Associate 

Location: Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Washington, USA
Hours: Part-time, varied
Reports to: Visitors’ Experience Manager

The Visitors’ Experience Associate (VEA) is part of a dynamic team that assists the Whale Museum’s visitors get the most out of their visit. VEAs are responsible for all monetary transactions, including admissions, memberships, and merchandise purchases, as well as answering the phone. Additionally, VEAs provide education and interpretation to visitors through answering visitors’ questions, leading tours, and assisting with education programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Admissions & Retail

• Greet and welcome visitors into the museum and provides a brief orientation
• Demonstrate excellent cash handling skills
• Process transactions for admissions, memberships, merchandise, etc.
• Ensure all merchandise is visible and accounted for
• Receive new merchandise
• Keep public areas clean and tidy

Education & Public Relations

• Maintain a friendly and respectful attitude to all visitors and staff
• Assist with guided tours and education programs as needed
• Stay updated on and provides information relating to the Southern Resident orcas and the Salish Sea
• Keep Store clean and organized

Desired Qualifications:

• Customer service and retail experience
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills, able to interact effectively with Museum staff & board, volunteers, visitors, and members
• Familiarity with the San Juan Islands, cetacean biology and natural history, specifically the Southern Resident orcas and the Salish Sea
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work irregular hours, including weekends, evenings, and holidays

Please email cover letter and resume to emily@whalemuseum.org

Volunteer Opportunities

The Whale Museum has numerous year-round and seasonal volunteer opportunities. If you are interested in volunteering for us, click here to download the Volunteer Questionnaire, which has more information about specific opportunities. Email completed questionnaires to rebekah@whalemuseum.org and we will be in touch shortly!

Volunteer Museum Docent:

The Whale Museum's Exhibit Hall is open daily. Each year, approximately 30,000 people visit.  We are looking for volunteer docents! If you are interested in learning more or spending time telling visitors about the Salish Sea and the amazing marine life therein, please email rebekah@whalemuseum.org.