Volunteer
Volunteering at the Butterfly House & Aquarium is an experience like none other in the area!
Apply Today
Join the Adventure
Volunteering at the Butterfly House & Aquarium is an experience like none other in the area! Our volunteers come from all walks of life and give their time according to what best fits their schedule. Some volunteer once to several times a week, while others come in as available.
With over one million guests served since 2002, the Butterfly House & Aquarium’s Exhibit Interpreters play a vital role in our daily operations. A completed application is your first step in joining our team of dedicated Exhibit Interpreters. We welcome you to join us!
Benefits
- Learn and interact with beautiful tropical butterflies and fascinating ocean creatures
- Socialize with guests from around the world
- Volunteers receive free, year-round admission*
- 40% discount in the gift shop!
*pending participation requirements
Position Options
Our exhibit interpreters interact with nearly every guest and serve as a learning resource for those who enter the space. They help individuals connect and engage with ocean life and tropical butterflies. Exhibit Interpreters gain and hone many skills including guest interaction, animal handling (optional), species identification and environmental education with aquatic life and butterflies.
All volunteers receive in depth training in their department to equip them with the knowledge to enhance each guests visit.
Butterfly Interpreter
Interpreters transport our guests to the rainforest, welcoming them to a unique experience to walk among tropical butterflies. Interpreters provide educational information about butterflies, plants and the rainforest and ensure no butterflies leave with the guests.
Aquarium Interpreter
Interpreters engage all guests with educational information and an experience that go beyond the aquarium acrylic and transport you into the ocean.
Discovery Den/Mangrove Interpreter
Interpreters provide educational information about mangroves, jellyfish, and their importance to a thriving eco-system. Interpreters will also discuss the environmental issues animals in the ocean face and what we can do to help them.
Internships
Internships are available for individuals seeking experience in marine biology, ecology, lepidoptera, education, development and/or marketing. Interns may receive college credits for the internship. Internships are on a volunteer basis. If interested, please email resume and cover letter to the email below.
volunteer@sdaquarium.orgRequirements
Exhibit Interpreters must be at least 16 years old to volunteer in the Butterfly House & Aquarium. Those under 18 years of age must have a parent complete and sign a consent form prior to their first assignment. Background screening may be required for some positions.