Volunteer FAQ

Individuals must be at least 16 years old to volunteer independently. Occasionally, we have opportunities for volunteers younger than 16 to volunteer with a parent or designated adult.

Most volunteers commit to one shift a week. While we encourage and prefer a weekly commitment, the minimum requirement to volunteer is one 6-hour shift per month for a year for most positions. Some volunteer positions require a greater time commitment due to the training involved. Youth and intern opportunities are seasonal and built around the school year.

Volunteers at the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation serve in a variety of different roles, assisting essentially every department at the Museum. Many are docents who assist visitors by providing general information, leading public and private tours, and serving as car hosts. Other volunteers work in various departments such as Rail Operations as conductors, engineers, and maintenance workers; archives in the Hays T. Watkins Research Library; curatorial; education; marketing; and private events. When a new volunteer opportunity opens, the position description will be posted along with the application and recruitment dates.

Yes! It is important to note, however, that the training required to become a train conductor is more extensive than other roles, therefore the time commitment is greater. Additionally, due to safety regulations as well as the physical demands, volunteers seeking to be conductors must meet certain criteria and display specific competencies before being invited to begin training.

While we do have volunteer train engineers, this position is by invitation only and requires extensive experience first as a conductor before beginning engineer training. If you have professional conducting or engineering experience an exception may be made.