Museum Docents

Develop your love of history, learn about archival work, and help the public uncover the past by becoming a volunteer at the National Archives at New York City.

The National Archives serves American democracy by safeguarding and preserving the records of our Government, ensuring that the people can discover, use, and learn from this documentary heritage.We ensure continuing access to the essential documentation of the rights of American citizens and the actions of their government.We support democracy, promote civic education, and facilitate historical understanding of our national experience.

Museum docents work in our learning center, welcome center, and throughout our exhibit and public spaces. They greet visitors, answer general questions, facilitate learning and discovery, and provide tours of the National Archives. They inform visitors about current exhibits and educational programs provided by the National Archives. They share their knowledge about National Archives documents, our exhibits, and the architectural features of the Custom House.

Applications may be submitted at any time. Upon receipt of a written application, we will call all qualified applicants to arrange an interview for further consideration. 

All Archival Assistants are required to have fingerprints and a full background check.  We expect volunteers to commit to 4-8 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months.

Required Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to a variety of audiences.

• Commitment to lifelong learning

• Dependability

• Knowledge of and interest in history and archives

• Willingness and ability to acquire an understanding of the National Archives records, our temporary exhibits and the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House.