Become a volunteer and join the adventure.

As a volunteer, you will be an invaluable member of the Museum and part of a select and dedicated group of individuals who will represent the institution to our visitors.

For more information, please call 978-745-9500.

Volunteer Docents

The Peabody Essex Museum is seeking volunteer gallery instructors (docents) who are especially interested in working with student groups and family audiences.

Ideal candidates have experience talking about or making art, feel comfortable speaking in public, and are excited about creating engaging gallery-based learning experiences for the museum’s visitors.

Candidates must be willing to make a two year commitment to the museum, attend training sessions, and volunteer for a three-hour shift once a week on either Saturday or Sunday or volunteer one three-hour shift a weekday, and one three-hour weekend shift a month.

Interested candidates should apply by October 15, 2008. For an application please contact Ellen Soares at 978-745-9500 x 3043 or download it below. Completed applications may be emailed to volunteers@pem.org (please indicate Docent Program in the subject line), or mailed to Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square, Salem, MA 01970 attn: Human Resources. PEM is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Volunteer/Docent application (PDF Format)

Construction Assistant Volunteer

The Exhibits Construction department is looking for an enthusiastic volunteer. Gain valuable experience working for one of the nation's top museums. One full day per week or flexible hours.

Responsibilities

The Exhibits Construction volunteer will assist as able in all phases of gallery fit-up and breakdown of exhibit furniture. Work might include any and or all of the following; construction of casework, platforms, and walls, fabrication of plexiglass, metal or wood components, painting furniture, hanging signage, moving furniture into or out of storage areas.

Qualifications

Knowledge of and experience with basic hand tools such as drill, hand saw, mat knife, and measuring tape. Familiar with spackling and painting. Duties can be tailored to individuals strengths. Candidate should be comfortable with work conditions that may involve getting a little messy. Jobs may vary from day to day depending on departmental needs. Extreme care must be exercised when working in the proximity of the collections to avoid causing any damage.

Please send resumes to Daiana Rosario, Human Resource Assistant, Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square, Salem MA 01970 .