Volunteer Opportunities

The Illinois State Museum is successful because of our great volunteers.  Please see our current needs below. All prospective volunteers must be over 16 years of age to volunteer independently and complete an online application and brief interview. Some positions may require a background check. For questions regarding volunteering, please us by email at volunteer@illinoisstatemuseum.org or by phone at (217) 557-5880. To apply, click the volunteer application button.

We are looking for friendly, helpful people to engage visitors during educational programs. Volunteers welcome visitors and facilitate crafts, games, and other activities. Volunteers should enjoy working with children and adults and working independently and with other volunteers. Shifts and dates vary and there is no minimum service commitment. A background check is required for this position.

The Mary Ann Maclean Play Museum is a hands-on children's gallery that encourages children to explore museum work through play. Facilitators are needed to welcome visitors, set expectations for fun, interact with guests, and keep the exhibit tidy. Volunteers should enjoy working with the public, especially children, have a customer-service mindset, and be able to work independently. Training is provided. Play Museum Facilitators are asked to commit to at least two, three-hour shifts per month for six months or twelve shifts over a shorter time period if preferred. Shifts are available Monday through Saturday between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and Sunday between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. A background check is required for this position.

Illinois State Museum Children's Program.