Questions about becoming a Midway Volunteer? Please review the frequently asked questions below.
If your question is not answered, contact the Volunteer Team at volunteering@midway.org

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to be a volunteer?

Submit an online application here. Once received, applications are reviewed to see if the applicant matches a need. If it’s a promising match, the candidate is invited to an Open House where information is given and introductions are made. Candidates who are cleared are invited to train. In many cases, training is on-the-job.  In others, a formal training program of a few days to several weeks is required.

What will I do as a Midway Volunteer?

Volunteers support museum operations in many ways.  See our Opportunities List for current volunteer opportunities. In general, volunteers are the museum’s frontline staff, serving more than a million museum guests per year. Others contribute behind-the-scenes in areas like restoration, exhibits preparation, and administrative positions.

How much of my time is required?

Each assignment asks for a monthly commitment of, generally, 20 hours per month, often with a flexible schedule. The museum is open 7 days per week!  There are also options to help one time with a group of 10 or more.

May I volunteer for a day?

We are not able to manage individual volunteers on a single or even occasional basis as it is simply impractical. For single day, one-time or episodic projects, we welcome groups of 10 or more with advance arrangements. The volunteer application, located on our website, is for individuals who are available for at least 6 consecutive months of regular participation after their training, and whose skills meet the museum’s needs at the time the application is received.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

The benefits are numerous including a generous awards program for all of its volunteers based on the amount of time they volunteer. We also provide discounts in our gift shop and café as well as free parking.

Can I bring a group to volunteer?

Yes. Volunteering at the USS Midway Museum provides great team-building opportunities. We welcome corporate teams, office groups, schools, military groups, service organizations, alumni groups, associations, families, fraternities/sororities, and faith-based organizations. We prefer groups of 10-20 people at a time but can accommodate others depending on the needs of the ship at the time your group is available. To schedule a group project, please contact us at (619) 398-8289 or groups@midway.org. For best availability, contact us at least a month in advance. Please allow us at least 48 hours to reply to your message.

What kind of volunteer work do the one-day groups get assigned to?

The volunteer projects vary depending upon the group and the needs of the museum. They range from light cleaning along the tour routes to moving heavy objects up several flights of steep ladders and washing aircraft. After completing the project, the group is welcome to remain on the ship for the rest of the day as our guest.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

We are looking for adults 18 or older. Volunteers 12-18 years old, with chaperones, are encouraged to consider a one-day group project. We also have an internship for ages 15-18 who have a genuine interest in naval aviation.  Best candidates are students looking to pursue careers in aerospace, engineering, mechanical engineering, or who are pursuing FAA qualifications.  Interested in this program? Contact us at volunteering@midway.org.

What is the dress code for volunteers?

Most full-time volunteers wear a uniform that corresponds with the department or area in which they volunteer. Group project volunteers wear clothing they do not mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes with a solid grip are recommended for all volunteers.

Where are you located?

All projects except for special events take place on the USS Midway Museum ship. We are located in downtown San Diego at 910 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego CA, 92101, adjacent to Navy Pier.