A woman demonstrates wool carding to children at a museum, with framed artwork displayed on the walls in the background.

Volunteer at The James

A woman stands next to a display featuring cowboy boots, books, and a red bandana in an art museum gallery with western-themed paintings on the wall.

Become a Docent

Does art speak to you? Join a lifelong learning community of docents who inspire, educate, and make a difference every day for visitors of all ages at The James Museum. Docents lead tours for groups of all ages, from K-12 students to adults. They introduce visitors to The James Museum’s collection, making works of art meaningful and accessible.

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Docent Program Requirements

Docent candidates of all backgrounds and abilities are welcome. No prior training in art history is required. Below are the benefits and requirements for joining the program.

Tours

Lead a minimum of two tours a month

Training

Docents are required to complete training and adhere to the museum’s policies and procedures along with participating in ongoing training and meetings.

Technology

Docents must have access to a computer or Wi-Fi enabled device to access volunteer resources and information. An active email account is also required for communication.

Professionalism

Demonstrate a cooperative, friendly, professional manner when dealing with museum visitors, staff, and fellow volunteers.

Background Check

Criminal background check (to be completed during training period)

One-Time Fee

One-time fee of $125 (covers training materials, background check, ID badge, nametag, and other incidentals)

Docent Benefits

  • Ongoing learning opportunities with the museum’s curatorial and education staff, as well as visiting artists and scholars
  • Access to the museum’s private research library
  • Annual appreciation events, social gatherings, and field trips
  • Free garage parking while on duty
  • Volunteer lounge with lockers
  • After leading 5 tours, docents receive a free individual membership with an option to upgrade by paying the difference. Memberships remain valid and are renewed annually for all active volunteers.
  • At the end of every calendar year, docents are awarded museum admission tickets based on the number of service hours completed during the previous year
Five people from the Teen Art Council stand side by side in front of a colorful geometric wall, all smiling at the camera and wearing name badges.

Teen Volunteers

Do you love art? Are you interested in working at a museum or exploring careers in education? Either way, we want you here! The James Museum has opportunities for teen volunteers to gain experience in a museum setting by assisting with educational programs and events.

For more information, email [email protected].

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Job Opportunities

Interested in job opportunities as well? Check out our current openings.

Careers