When you think of the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For me, it’s the Nat Geo Live Speaker Series, where I had the incredible experience of attending a private, after-hours gathering with a real-life Indiana Jones.
Everyone has cherished memories of visiting the Perot Museum with family and friends. If those experiences have inspired you and you want to give back, volunteering is a meaningful way to make a lasting impact.
I recently spoke with Samantha Gutierrez, the Perot Museum’s Volunteer Programs Manager, about the exciting year-round volunteer opportunities available to those eager to make a difference at this world-class museum. Whether you’re passionate about science or just looking for a way to give back, there’s a role for everyone.
Spoiler alert: you don’t have to be a scientist to contribute. Ready to dive into an adventure of exploration and impact? Read on— Your chance to volunteer at the Perot Museum awaits!
Sturgeon: What volunteer activities are available for individuals and groups?
Samantha Gutierrez: Volunteers at the Perot Museum support on-site and off-site activities. Popular opportunities include:
- Dino Puzzles: An area that engages guests of all ages with 3D T-Rex and Triceratops puzzles, promoting problem-solving and motor skills.
- Children’s Museum: A space for kids under 5 to explore animals, nature, arts, crafts, and paleontology, with a renovation set for 2025.
- Challenge Lab: A hands-on maker space for children 6 and up to explore engineering, coding, and STEM-based projects like robotics and video game creation.
- Bio Lab: This lab is ideal for ages 8 and up and features hands-on DNA, biology, and anthropology activities.
- Science on the Spot: An interactive museum activity aligned with permanent exhibits covering paleontology, space, energy, and forensic science.
- Guest Services: Help with ticket scanning, crowd control, wayfinding, and theater support.
- TECH Truck: A mobile maker space where volunteers aged 18+ assist with activities in the community.
Sturgeon: How does someone start the volunteer application process? Is there a background check?
Samantha Gutierrez: Our year-round volunteer applications are open now. Interested individuals can apply through our website, Dallas Volunteer Opportunities.
After applying, our team will contact you for an interview. Volunteers 18 years and older must pass a background check before being invited to create a profile and attend an onsite orientation.
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, celebrating its 12th anniversary on December 1, continues to inspire, educate, and engage the Dallas and Texas community and visitors from around the globe.
This exceptional museum has become a cherished landmark in Dallas, connecting North Texas to the wonders of nature and science. Earlier this year, the museum distributed over 1 million eclipse glasses, providing students, teachers, essential workers, and first responders a safe way to experience the Great North American Eclipse.
The museum inspires minds through nature and science, catalyzes STEM learning, and fosters strong community connections. It offers innovative, accessible experiences that engage diverse audiences with a mission to spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong passion for science through immersive educational opportunities.
A vital goal of the Perot Museum is to make science museums accessible to everyone. Through initiatives like TECH Trucks, it expands STEM education beyond its walls, ensuring that zip codes do not limit access. These efforts empower young minds and help foster the development of a diverse, talented STEM workforce.
The Dallas community is key to the Perot Museum’s mission: to partner with local schools and educators to inspire the next generation of STEM workers. With STEM jobs in Texas growing at twice the national rate, the museum’s programs are vital for boosting student engagement, critical thinking, and perseverance in STEM fields.
Whether you visit to experience the exhibits or find your passion in volunteering, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is the place to be awed. With something new to discover at every turn, get ready to explore, learn, and make a difference!
