Volunteer FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I become a volunteer?
- What do SFMOMA volunteers do?
- Does SFMOMA conduct interviews before accepting applicants into the volunteer program?
- What is the minimum age to become a volunteer at SFMOMA?
- Do I need to be a member?
- I have a background in art history; can I help research or write?
- Do I need to be computer literate to be an SFMOMA volunteer?
- How can I get involved with events?
- Will I work directly with artists and/or the art?
- Does SFMOMA work with short-term volunteers?
- What is expected of me as a SFMOMA volunteer?
How do I become a volunteer?
The first step is to complete an application (PDF) and return it to the address indicated on the form.
What do SFMOMA volunteers do?
Museum volunteers are needed in many departments, including Education, Development, and the SFMOMA Library. Departmental volunteers can provide clerical support, work on special projects, or staff special events. On-call volunteers (those who cannot commit to a regular schedule) assist at Family Studios or take tickets at lectures and films. Many on-call shifts are available on weekends and evenings.
Does SFMOMA conduct interviews before accepting applicants into the volunteer program?
Yes. The volunteer program manager will take a few minutes to discuss your interests, expectations, and availability before inviting you to attend an orientation for prospective volunteers.
What is the minimum age to become a volunteer at SFMOMA?
Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age.
Do I need to be a member?
No. Membership is not required of our volunteer staff.
I have a background in art history; can I help research or write?
No. SFMOMA's employee union is very protective of its members' responsibilities. Volunteers can supplement the work of a union employee, but cannot replace it. Unfortunately, this restricts the possibilities for volunteers to put their skills and/or education to work.
Do I need to be computer literate to be an SFMOMA volunteer?
No. Many volunteers help us by assisting with events, managing lines at large exhibitions, and staffing our Family Studios. On occasions when we do require the assistance of a computer-literate volunteer, we will ask only those people who have indicated that they possess the required skills.
How can I get involved with events?
Events are a way of life at SFMOMA, and range from book signings to lectures and large parties. The most common volunteer assignments involve assisting with events. It should be very easy to get involved!
Will I work directly with artists and/or the art?
No. Very few SFMOMA staff actually work with the artists or the art, and those who do are specially trained and bonded long-term employees. They cannot accommodate volunteers.
Does SFMOMA work with short-term volunteers?
No. Due to the training involved and the on-call nature of most volunteer opportunities, SFMOMA does not work with short-term volunteers.
What is expected of me as a SFMOMA volunteer?
SFMOMA agrees:
- To provide the opportunity for a meaningful volunteer experience, allowing the volunteer to share in the works and goals of SFMOMA.
- To provide the opportunity for hands-on work with a variety of departments.
- To provide the opportunity for volunteers to assist in the education of visitors through our education programs.
- To provide training and supervision.
- To keep an account of volunteer hours, and to provide a letter of recommendation when requested.
- To provide a volunteer program manager responsible for interviewing and placing volunteers. The volunteer program manager also acts as a liaison between volunteers and the museum.
The SFMOMA volunteer agrees:
- To a minimum of six months of service to SFMOMA unless otherwise arranged.
- To contribute all services at no charge. Any donated items and/or work or materials produced while volunteering become the property of SFMOMA.
- To report faithfully to one's assigned project on the assigned day at the scheduled time, and to carry out duties promptly and responsibly.
- To use space and equipment only for work assigned, and at authorized times.
- To promote the dignity and integrity of the museum in all interactions with the public and to honor confidential information.
- To abide by the volunteer policies as set forth in the orientation handbook.
Contact Information
For more information, email volunteers@sfmoma.org or call 415.357.4157. Leave a message with your name, phone number and/or email address, and the information you require, and someone will get back to you shortly.
