Behind the Scenes Volunteer Opportunities
Behind-the-Scenes Volunteer Opportunities
Explore a variety of exciting behind-the-scenes volunteer opportunities! Most roles are available Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and require a weekly commitment for at least six months. Opportunities span five labs and collections spaces, primarily within the Science Division, with some roles available in other departments. Join us to contribute meaningfully and be part of the Museum's impactful work!
Application Process
- Learn more about the volunteer opportunities below, then click on the Behind-the-Scenes Volunteer Application.
- Complete the position of interest form and select the position of interest
- Interview with a staff supervisor
- If accepted, attend a virtual new volunteer orientation
- Complete any necessary additional training
Please note: Most behind-the-scenes positions are only available during regular business hours, Monday to Friday. Please read the descriptions below to learn more about each position and complete the Behind-the-Scenes Volunteer Application. The placement process for Behind-the-Scenes volunteer positions can take up to two months, depending on the position and required training.
Volunteer positions change frequently, so we encourage you to complete the Position of Interest form when your desired volunteer position becomes available. If you begin the application process but do not complete the form, the position may no longer be available later.
If you have applied as a volunteer or intern or are a former volunteer or intern looking to re-apply, please contact us at [email protected] to reset your account.
Arachnology Database Volunteer
The Zoology Department is focused on providing a better understanding of the planet’s biodiversity through an active program of scientific research, collections growth, curation, and outreach.
The amazing arachnology collection in Zoology at the Museum contains spiders from Colorado and the surrounding region, as well as solfugids and other arachnids. Volunteers are needed to provide technical database support with the arachnid collections in the Zoology Department. Assist the curator with timely cataloging of new acquisitions, entering collections data into the computer database, and checking the accuracy of past data entries.
Volunteers are needed to enter specimen data into the Arachnology collection’s online database, Ecdysis (https://ecdysis.org/collections/misc/collprofiles.php?collid=149). This includes assigning catalog numbers to specimens, transcribing label data into the database, georeferencing specimen locality information, and adding appropriate catalog number labels to alcohol vials.
Required Skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy when transcribing data
- Basic computer proficiency, including typing, web browsers, and spreadsheets
- Ability to enter data consistently following established standards
- Manual dexterity and comfort handling small, delicate specimens and vials
- Ability to carefully read and interpret specimen labels and handwritten text
- Willingness to learn museum collections procedures and database systems
- Ability to follow written protocols and instructions precisely
- Ability to work independently while also collaborating with staff and volunteers
- Strong organizational skills and ability to stay focused on repetitive tasks
- Commitment to a consistent weekly schedule for the duration of the project
Working Conditions
- The use of ladders may be necessary
- Lifting and moving specimens
- Office conditions and standard office equipment
- Volunteers must be able to sit or stand for extended periods
Schedule and Commitment
Minimum of one shift per week for six months.
Shifts are available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., 12:30 – 4:30 p.m., or all-day shift, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Age Requirement
Available to applicants 18 and older
Conservation Volunteer: Silver Cleaning
Position: Conservation Volunteer: Silver Cleaning
Department: Conservation
Staff Supervisor: Casey Mallinckrodt
Project Start Date: Week of October 21
Project End Date: Week of November 11
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Conservation has a short-term volunteer position. The volunteer will assist in surface cleaning five silver and turquoise necklaces in preparation for an exhibition. The entire designated time may not be required.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Volunteers will receive instruction and training in cleaning method
- Hand-cleans silver jewelry using a non-toxic solution.
- Communicate closely with the supervising conservator to monitor the progress
- Handles the jewelry using best practices as instructed by the conservator
- One or two days a week for 2-3 hours
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience handling museum collection and/or silver jewelry preferred
- Demonstrated hand skills and care in handling fragile materials
- Work takes place in the conservation department lab and small “fume hood” lab, both on the B1 level.
- Shifts available Monday to Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Quiet conservation lab with effective ventilation
- Able to work alone with minimal supervision
- Sit for an extended period with breaks as needed
- Cleaning requires the use of ethanol solvent with appropriate solvent ventilation
- No machinery required
- Museum collections: preparation, cleaning of collection items, workshops
- PPE supplied by the Conservation Department
TRAINING
Conservation staff will train
SCHEDULE
Shifts available Monday to Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Entomology Collections Specimen Pinner
The largest collections in Zoology include entomology with ~1.1 million specimens and taxonomic strengths in Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) and several families of Coleoptera (beetles), including a globally significant collection of scarab beetles.
Assist the Museum’s entomology collection by working hands-on with insect specimens from around the world to help make our entomology specimens and their data valuable for research! Volunteers are needed to prepare specimens for incorporation into the entomology collection. This includes pinning insect specimens from alcohol vials for drying, sorting them by taxa, and keep collecting data associated with each specimen.
Shift times are from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., 12:30 – 4:30. p.m., and 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and are available Tuesday to Friday, with a 6-month commitment at a minimum.
Qualifications
- Careful attention to detail
- Computer skills (typing, web browsers, spreadsheets)
- Willing to learn new skills
- Manual dexterity skills, able to manipulate small and fragile specimens
- Cooperative in a team environment
- Ability to follow instructions and work independently
- Must be able to commit to a set weekly schedule
- Education or experience in biology or entomology helpful
Training
The Zoology Assistant Collections Manager will provide on-the-job training.
Schedule and Commitment
Minimum of one shift per week for six months. Shifts are available Tuesday – Friday.
Age Requirement
Available to individual applicants 18 or older
Zoology Vertebrate Collections Volunteer
The Zoology Department is focused on providing a better understanding of the planet’s biodiversity through an active program of scientific research, collections growth, curation, and outreach. Research activities and the scope of the zoology collections span the globe, but the primary focus is on Western North America. Staff are also charged with building and enhancing the research collections they oversee to support the broader scientific community and contribute to the public good.
- The ornithology collection (~55,000 specimens) is one of the largest in the American West with holotypes, paratypes, extinct taxa, and many species of conservation importance.
- The mammal collection (~21,000 specimens), which has more than doubled in size over the last decade, covers seven continents, with a particularly strong Colorado focus.
Be a part of enhancing the collections by volunteering for one of the exciting projects listed below!
Specimen Labeler
The Vertebrate Zoology Department is seeking volunteers to assist in our specimen labeling procedures. Read below to learn more about the position. Shift times are from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 12:30 – 4:30. p.m., and are available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with a 6-month commitment at a minimum.
Volunteers will assist with labeling and tagging prepared specimens to be integrated into the Zoology collection. Specimens processed in the Museum’s Vertebrate Preparation Lab are sent down to collections to be matched with corresponding specimen data, including the specimen’s catalog number and collection data. The tasks consist of transcribing the specimen’s catalog number onto the extracted bones, tying tags onto prepared skins, and affixing data labels onto specimen boxes. This position requires a steady hand and good eyes, as volunteers will be handling fragile, and sometimes very small, specimens.
Required Skills
- Manual dexterity skills, able to manipulate fragile/small specimens
- Excellent handwriting
- Accuracy in transcribing information
- Attention to detail, checking for any inaccuracies
- Excellent communication skills, whether it be prompt in responding to notifications or able to bring up issues to Collections Staff
Not Required but Preferred Skills
- Experience in natural history, biology, or zoology
- Computer skills (Excel, databases, web browsers, etc.)
Data Entry
The Vertebrate Zoology Department needs volunteers to assist with data entry. Read below to learn more about the position. Shift times are from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 12:30 – 4:30. p.m., and are available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with a 6-month commitment at a minimum.
Volunteers will assist in incorporating new specimen data (primarily birds and mammals) into the Museum’s zoology collection. This work will support the current and future research being done by the DMNS Zoology Curators as well as researchers across the globe. The specimen data will be entered into the vertebrate collection’s online database, Arctos (https://arctos.database.museum). The tasks consist of transcribing and entering preparation data into the database or bulk loader, assigning catalog numbers to specimens, and maintaining the physical catalog of specimen data. Occasionally, volunteers will be asked to complete data cleanup of existing records.
Required Skills
- Strong computer skills (Experience with Windows preferred)
- Careful attention to detail
- Ability to follow written instructions and problem-solve
- Capable of performing duplicative tasks with care
- Excellent communication skills, whether it be prompt in responding to notifications or able to bring up issues to Collections Staff.
- Not Required, but Preferred Skills
- Experience in natural history or zoology
- Expertise in Excel
Not Required but Preferred Skills
- Experience in natural history or zoology
- Expertise in Excel
Training
Zoology Assistant Collections Manager will provide the required training and must be attended before the first day of volunteering.
Vertebrate Specimen Integration
The Vertebrate Zoology Department is looking for volunteers to assist in our specimen integration procedures. Read below to learn more about the position. Shift times are from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., 12:30 – 4:30. p.m., and 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and are available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with a 6-month commitment at a minimum.
The department is interested in volunteers to assist in incorporating bird and mammal specimens into the Vertebrate Zoology Research Collection. This role includes organizing, cataloging, and integrating specimens and ensuring proper care, preservation, and accurate labeling of all specimens in accordance with museum standards.
Responsibilities
- Handle study skins, skeletons, wings, and various other museum specimens with the utmost care.
- Organize specimens according to taxonomic and geographic categories and ensure proper numerical order based on catalog numbers.
- Regularly assess the collection for proper organization and adjust as necessary to accommodate new specimens.
- Required Skills
- Manual dexterity skills, able to manipulate fragile, sometimes small specimens
- Capable of bending, crouching, and standing for long periods to manage specimens in drawers and cabinets.
- Excellent handwriting
- Accuracy in transcribing information
- Attention to detail, checking for any inaccuracies
- Excellent communication skills, whether it be prompt in responding to notifications or able to bring up issues to collections staff
- The use of ladders is required
Required Skills
- Manual dexterity skills, able to manipulate fragile, sometimes small specimens
- Capable of bending, crouching, and standing for long periods to manage specimens in drawers and cabinets.
- Excellent handwriting
- Accuracy in transcribing information
- Attention to detail, checking for any inaccuracies
- Excellent communication skills, whether it be prompt in responding to notifications or able to bring up issues to collections staff
Not Required, but Preferred Skills
- Experience in natural history, biology, or zoology
- Computer skills (Excel, databases, web browsers, etc.)
Entomology Collections Volunteer
Zoology Entomology Collections Volunteer
Do you love bugs? The Zoology Department is looking for volunteers to provide support to the insect collections, including a vast beetle collection with a focus on learning insect preparation techniques, especially pinning. Tasks also include the identification of specimens to the species level, cataloging and/or databasing of specimens and assisting with outreach activities.
There are two volunteer positions available. Entomology Collections Specimen Preparator and Entomology Databasing Volunteer. Read below to learn more about each position.
Entomology Collections Specimen Preparator
The largest collection within Zoology is the Entomology collection with ~1.1 million specimens, and taxonomic strengths in Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) and several families of Coleoptera (beetles), including a globally significant collection of scarab beetles.
Assist the Museum’s entomology collection by working hands-on with insect specimens from around the world to help make our entomology specimens and their data valuable for research! Volunteers are needed to prepare specimens for incorporation into the entomology collection. This includes pinning insect specimens from alcohol vials for drying, sorting bulk alcohol samples by taxa, and keep collecting data associated with each specimen.
Shift times are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 12:30 – 4:30 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and they are available Tuesday through Friday. A 6-month commitment is required at a minimum.
Required Skills
- Careful attention to detail
- Manual dexterity skills, able to manipulate small and fragile specimens
- Willing to learn new skills
- Cooperative in a team environment
- Ability to follow written instructions and work independently
- Must be able to commit to a set weekly schedule
- Education or experience in biology or entomology helpful
Training
The Zoology Assistant Collections Manager will provide on-the-job training.
Schedule and Commitment
Minimum of one shift per week for six months. Shifts are available Tuesday – Friday.
Age Requirement
Available to individual applicants 18 or older
Zoology Entomology Databasing Volunteer
Volunteers are needed to enter specimen data into an online database for the museum’s Entomology collection. Shift times are from 9 a.m – 1 p.m., 12:30 – 4:30. p.m., and 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and are available Tuesday-Friday with a 6-month minimum commitment.
Volunteers are needed to enter specimen data into the Entomology collection’s online database, Ecdysis (https://ecdysis.org/collections/misc/collprofiles.php?collid=149). This includes assigning catalog numbers to specimens, transcribing label data into the database, georeferencing specimen locality information, and adding appropriate catalog number labels to insect specimens. This work involves the careful handling of delicate, dried specimens on pins and in alcohol vials. The ability to read very small, handwritten text, sometime in cursive, is required (magnification devices are provided).
Required Skills
- Careful attention to detail
- Computer skills (typing, web browsers, spreadsheets)
- Manual dexterity skills, able to manipulate small and fragile specimens
- Willing to learn new skills
- Cooperative in a team environment
- Ability to follow written instructions and work independently
- Must be able to commit to a set weekly schedule
- Education or experience in biology or entomology helpful
Training
The Zoology Assistant Collections Manager will provide on-the-job training.
Schedule and Commitment
Minimum of one shift per week for six months. Shifts are available Tuesday–Friday.
Age Requirement
Available to individual applicants 18 or older
Zoology Vertebrate Preparator Squirrel and Rabbit Dissection Volunteer
Volunteer applications for this position will be accepted through December 1, 2025, or until the position is filled.
The Zoology Prep Lab is a crucial step in the life of a vertebrate zoology specimen. Staff and volunteers in this lab collect data and prepare vertebrates for their long life in the growing zoology collections. We prepare a variety of skins, skeletons, and alcohol specimens for research. In addition, we sample tissues and save parasites from specimens coming through the lab. We work closely with zoology curators and collections staff to ensure that scientists receive the materials they need for their research. We are recruiting volunteers for the project listed below.
Squirrel and Rabbit Dissection
Volunteers will work on various sizes of rabbits and squirrels. Volunteers will learn how to prepare skulls, tissues, and whole bodies in ethanol for the Zoology research collections. This is best for volunteers who have never dissected animals before and are new to the methods. Best for people with a strong stomach, good attention to detail, who can work on repetitive tasks, enjoy working with their hands, and can keep organized. Disclaimer: This volunteer position includes the dissection of dead baby animals. You will see blood, intestines, organs, and potentially insects or parasites. Volunteers must be available for a minimum time commitment of one shift per week for 6 months. Shifts are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preference is given to those who can volunteer for longer shifts.
Minimum Qualifications
- Have solid attention to detail and a proactive willingness to acquire new skills.
- Exhibit manual dexterity skills that lend themselves to intricate tasks
- Thrive in a collaborative team setting
- Demonstrate adeptness in following instructions while also excelling in independent tasks
- Consistency is key; it requires a commitment to maintaining a regular weekly schedule.
Helpful Skills
- Education or background in biology, mammalogy, or ornithology is helpful
- Prior experience in handling specimens is helpful
Training
The Zoology Preparator will provide on-the-job training. Additionally, volunteers are required to take the Zoology Preparation Lab Safety Training on their first working day in the lab. All personal protective equipment is provided.
Age Requirement
Available to individual applicants 18 or older
Physical Working Conditions
- Must have the ability to sit or stand for long periods of time
- Ability to safely lift and handle specimens
- Manual dexterity – must have the ability to hold and operate hand tools and pneumatic tools without assistance.
- Moderate physical activity is required by handling objects up to 20 lbs occasionally and/or up to 10 lbs frequently
Archives Metadata and Inventory Volunteer
Volunteer Applications for this position will close on February 26, 2026.
The Archives Metadata and Inventory Volunteer is primarily a computer-based position that will assist with two different projects: entering metadata for digital assets and updating catalog records for the Archives’ inventory project. The Volunteer may also assist with other duties as assigned by the Archives staff.
This position reports to the Digital Archivist, Laura Uglean Jackson
Responsibilities
- Entering metadata for digital assets involves conducting data entry, copying and revising existing description as necessary for digital photograph, document, audio, and moving image files into NetX, a digital asset management system (DAMS)
- Will also assist with the Archives’ inventory project, which involves visually checking physical material (e.g. negatives, photographs, boxes) and updating locations in EMu, a collections management system (CMS)
- Undergo extensive training to gain understanding of the Archives’ systems, descriptive practices, and workflows
- Follow established written workflow procedures and instructions for entering metadata and inventorying
- Read, interpret, and reuse existing description embedded within files, spreadsheets, and databases
- Adept at data entry and avoiding typos and misspellings
- Search and navigate the Museum’s collections management system (EMu) and the Digital Asset Management System (NetX)
- Navigate multiple open windows in a Microsoft computing environment, such as file explorer, image files, spreadsheets, and the collections management database
- Create descriptions following inclusive description practices
Minimum Qualifications
- Education, licenses, certifications, and experience required to fulfill the essential duties include computer skills.
- Strong proficiency working in a Microsoft computing environment
- Interest in digital images and/or DMNS history
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and accuracy
- Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to work independently and manage tasks efficiently
- Ability to understand archival standards, concepts, and best practices
- Takes direction well and can follow established workflows and procedures
- On-site work schedule to fall within Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Working Conditions
- Office: Moderate noise (business office with computers and printers, light traffic)
- Stand or sit: must be able to sit at a computer most of the time
- Museum collections: maintenance of collection items
- Lifting requirements: Moves boxes, carts, and ladders weighing up to 40 pounds for retrieving and shelving materials