Education Docent Volunteer Program
Apply Today!
Apply here to volunteer as a Bishop Museum Education Docent.
Please email docents@bishopmuseum.org with any questions or concerns.
Docent Program Objective
The purpose of the Education Docent Volunteer Program is to provide Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum with a cadre of well-trained, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable volunteers who provide assistance, along with interpretive and educational experiences, to all members of our community. This community is made up of members, visitors from far and wide, guests, and students of all ages.
Job Description
Docents provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Bishop Museum’s mission, vision, and values by facilitating conversations and leading interpretive educational activities.
Kuleana – Primary Responsibilities
- Engaging visitors in conversation and discussions regarding the Museum’s collections and exhibits.
- Providing memorable and positive visits, including ensuring the comfort and safety of visitors while fostering educational growth opportunities with a variety of interpretive techniques.
- Attending and actively participating in ongoing docent trainings and meetings.
- Serving as the Museum’s representative to the public, and as a liaison between staff and visitors.
Essential Skills and Abilities for Bishop Museum Docents:
- A sincere and genuine interest in people of all ages.
- A passion for and excitement about the history, culture, and natural sciences of Hawaiʻi, and the desire to share this knowledge with others.
- Accuracy, attention to detail and maintaining the integrity of Bishop Museum.
- A sense of flexibility and cooperation.
- An attitude of tolerance and respect for all people’s points of view.
How to Apply
- Complete volunteer application here. When applying, please select Education Docent Program 2024 under the “Assignment Preference” dropdown menu.
- You will be contacted by phone and/or email regarding your application.
Please contact docents@bishopmuseum.org if a paper application or other application assistance is preferred.
All interested individuals are encouraged to apply. Class availability and schedules are limited, and only one session will be offered in Spring 2024.
Spring 2024 Session Training Schedule
- Five-week training program
(10 classes) for content and facilitation training - Biweekly structure:
- Saturdays, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
- Wednesdays, 4:00–7:00 PM
- Wednesday, February 28, 2024–Saturday, March 30, 2024
A full training schedule and format details will be provided during the interview process. Training will include lectures, workshops, activities, and assignments to introduce cultural and scientific content as well as Museum front-of-house and visitor interaction protocol.
After completion of formal training class, newly-trained docent volunteers will be asked to commit a minimum of eight (8) hours per month for the first eight (8) months of active service. Accommodations may be made based on individual circumstances and at the discretion of the Docent Program Coordinator.
Be a Part of Our Story
Celebrate the extraordinary history, culture, and environment of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific with a gift to Bishop Museum. As a partner in the Museum’s work, you can help to sustain vital collections, research, and knowledge, and inspire exploration and discovery with a tax-deductible donation.
