Volunteer

About Volunteering

A volunteer points at something red in the water inside of the Sea Discovery Center as a guest looks intently towards it.

Volunteers are ambassadors for SEA Discovery Center and play an integral part in SEA’s role as an aquarium and community space where we come together over a shared love of the ocean. There are over 90-hours of volunteer opportunities each week!

Volunteers give their time, experience, and curiosity, and receive many benefits in return:

  • Specialized training in marine science and deep dives into specific species
  • Special volunteer-only events and trainings  
  • A caring community of ocean stewards of all ages and backgrounds
     

Volunteer requirements

Apply to volunteer

Ready to dive in?

Once your application and background check have been approved, a member of the SEA team will email you with information about your training. Processing can take up to three weeks.

Questions? Email SEA@wwu.edu

Volunteer Opportunities

Education & Outreach

Depending on your preferences you might be on the aquarium floor during open hours greeting guests, discussing exhibits, or assisting at the touch tank. During the school year you may also assist SEA’s lead teacher with lessons in the SEA classroom, the floating classroom, on the beach, or out in schools. As an Education & Outreach volunteer you share your passion for marine life directly with members of the community.

Animal Care & Water Quality

After your initial volunteer training you can undertake further training with the Aquarium Curator to assist with animal husbandry and maintenance of the exhibits behind-the-scenes.

Office & Operations

Do you have a special skill you would like to share with the SEA team? We are always looking for help in the office and around the facility!

You do not need any experience in these fields—only enthusiasm!  We will train you. If you are passionate about what we do at SEA, we will help you find the volunteer path that’s right for you. 

Current Volunteer Shift Sign Up