Volunteering and Student Opportunities
Get hands-on experience in the museum field, educational opportunities, and a chance to help your community - all in a pleasant and exciting atmosphere! We have options for student employment, internships, and volunteer opportunities. Whether you are looking to develop new skills and build on your existing experience, or just want to get involved with the community, consider working/volunteering at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History!
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Student Opportunities
Student Employment
As a Fort Hays State University student, you may qualify for the work-study positions at the Museum. Learn valuable skills while earning money, and establish professional relationships with staff, which can be used for references for future employment.
The current student positions include:
- Admission and Gift Shop Attendant
- Resource Room Assistant
- Office Assistant
To get started you must first see if you qualify for work-study, to see if you qualify visit FHSU’s student employment page.
Next to apply for the student jobs listed above login into Workday. Select the Career Worklet > Find Student Jobs.
- Apply online and interview with departments in which you are interested in working.
- Follow-up! Your success in finding a job will depend largely upon your initiative and desire to work.
- Questions? Contact the Student Employment Office.
Volunteers
Why Volunteer?
Whether you have an interest in natural history or just enjoy working with people, there are numerous opportunities to expand your horizons. Our volunteers come to us with a diversity of skills and interests. Experience is not required – we will ensure that you have the training and support needed. In addition, volunteers are treated to special events including opportunities to participate in behind-the-scenes work, field trips, special programs, and social gatherings. Contact Torie Staros at (785) 628-5516 or v_staros@fhsu.edu to apply
Who Can Volunteer?
The volunteers' program is open to all interested individuals, retirees, working persons, or students who will find a place at Sternberg Museum. The only requirement is that volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. Younger volunteers may be considered on a case-by-case basis and might have to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you have any questions, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Torie Staros at (785) 628-5516 or v_staros@fhsu.edu
What Opportunities are Available?
Opportunities to volunteer at the Museum abound. Volunteer options include:
- those who can regularly work (even if only a few hours per week).
- those who can work on an occasional basis for special projects and those who can work on an occasional basis for special projects.
- those on stand-by who like substitute teachers might be willing to work on a moment’s notice (no obligation if called).
a. Admissions Desk Attendants
Desk attendants answer visitors’ questions, orient visitors to the museum, and sell tickets and memberships. Shifts are generally two hours long and are available on weekdays and weekends. On-the-job training is provided.
b. Docents
Docents are interpreters who provide guided tours for organized groups. Specialized training is required.
c. Education Volunteer
We offer many education and outreach programs, allowing for plenty of volunteer opportunities to work with children in an informal educational environment. We also have volunteer opportunities in our Discovery Room, where children and families can explore the wonders of natural history.
d. Museum Store Assistant
Volunteers assist with the operation of the museum story by stocking merchandise, helping with special promotions, and providing customer services. Shifts are generally two hours long and are available on weekdays and weekends. On-the-job training provided.
e. Office Assistant
Office Assistants answer the phone and help with basic office tasks. A variety of opportunities are available with flexible hours.
f. Exhibit Projects Volunteer
From time to time, persons are called upon to assist with specific projects, such as packing and unpacking traveling exhibitions. Individuals with specialized skills, such as artists, woodworkers, machinists, computer programmers, etc. occasionally needed to help with exhibit development, fabrication, and construction. Hours are flexible and some projects may be work-at-home. Some training is required.
How Do I Get Started?
To become a volunteer, you must first complete an application. An application form is available on this site in PDF format. Otherwise, you may call or stop by the museum. General orientation and safety training are also required for all volunteers. Contact Torie Staros at (785) 628-5516 or her email at v_staros@fhsu.edu and join our volunteers in action!