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Thurs: 1–8PM Fri–Mon: 10 AM–5 PM
Tue–Wed: Closed
Location
200 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
415.581.3500
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Volunteering at the Asian Art Museum

Join a community of art lovers and enthusiastic storytellers. Create enriching experiences for Asian Art Museum visitors to enjoy and remember.

About Volunteering

The museum relies on the enthusiasm, energy, and commitment of more than 400 individuals – docents, storytellers, and volunteers – to enhance the museum experience for visitors, bringing art and people together.

No previous experience is required and you don’t have to be familiar with or an expert in Asian art. Because the museum serves diverse audiences, frontline volunteers come from all Bay Area communities and all walks of life and backgrounds, from high-schoolers to retirees.

For questions, please email us at [email protected].

 

Benefits

In addition to learned experience, volunteers in good standing that have completed the threshold requirement for receiving benefits may receive the following:

  • Unlimited free admission to the permanent collection and most special exhibitions
  • Access to the museum’s research library (by appointment)
  • Invitation to volunteer appreciation events
  • 20% discount at the Cha May Ching Museum Boutique
  • 10% discount at Asian Box
  • 20% discount on museum membership (must be an active volunteer at the time of purchase or renewal)
  • Additional volunteer opportunities around the museum, including project-based or one-time activities
Requirements

We expect frontline volunteers to regularly volunteer for at least one year from their start date and to volunteer a minimum of 96 hours annually, the equivalent of two four-hour shifts each month. A mandatory onboarding session is required before you may begin volunteering for the Asian Art Museum.

Volunteers are expected to meet the following requirements:

  • You are at least 16 years old
  • You can commit a minimum of two 4-hour shifts per month
  • You have an outgoing, positive, and welcoming attitude
  • Comfortable interacting with visitors of diverse backgrounds
  • Willingness to collaborate with staff and other volunteers
  • You are dependable, reliable, and punctual for volunteer assignments
How to Apply
  • Learn more about volunteer opportunities by clicking on the tabs below
  • Volunteer applications are accepted at all times
  • Students applying to fulfill community service hours should tick the appropriate box on the volunteer application
Volunteer Opportunities
Information Desk/Coat Check

Welcome visitors, share exhibit highlights, offer guidance, and manage the complimentary coat check and accessibility resources. It’s a hands-on, people-centered position that is perfect for anyone excited to make art feel inviting and accessible.

Cha May Ching Museum Boutique

Create a warm, vibrant shopping experience by sharing your passion for Asian art through unique merchandise created by artists. As a volunteer, you’ll welcome visitors from around the world, deliver standout customer service, and help support the museum’s exhibitions and programs.

Public Programs and Events

Step into the fun of First Free Sundays, Baby Raves, Rock & Rolls, and more as you help bring the Asian Art Museum’s biggest celebrations to life. Special Events Volunteers keep the energy high by welcoming visitors, sharing treats, guiding crowds, and helping families dive into hands-on art activities that match each event’s theme. If you love lively days, creative chaos, and connecting people with art, this role is for you.

Project Volunteers

Join a flexible pool of volunteers who jump into unique, behind-the-scenes projects across the museum- from curatorial tasks to office administration

Apply Now