The USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum depends upon the service of a dedicated volunteer crew for success. Our volunteers become shipmates who actively participate in the staffing and operation of this historic aircraft carrier.
Become part of the ongoing history and legacy of the aircraft carrier USS Hornet, an American icon of World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Apollo 11 & Apollo 12 recovery missions! Help preserve the ship and her history by sharing your time, skills, experience, labor, and/or knowledge!
Please note that many volunteer positions require walking, climbing ship’s ladders (stairs), and maneuvering tight passageways. For more information, visit our Accessibility Page.
For more information
Contact volunteers@uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448 x243
Volunteer Positions & Divisions
Aircraft Restoration
The Air Group most recently finished the complete restoration of a World War II-era FM2 Wildcat that had spent nearly 50 years at the bottom of Lake Michigan as well as a S-2 Tracker. They are presently restoring a F4 Phantom fighter. No skillsets are required other than a willingness to learn and participate with hands-on restoration.
Collections and Exhibits
The Collections and Exhibitions Department manages some 20,000 artifacts and seeks volunteers who enjoy the traditional work of a museum including working with artifacts, database entry, object research, and more.
Community Outreach
The Community Outreach volunteer position is best for those able to participate in off-site events throughout the Bay Area. We showcase our popular cockpits at fundraising and community outreach opportunities! Volunteers in this division travel to community events (fairs, festivals, and schools) to represent the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum.
Docents (Tour Guides)
Docents provide tours of the ship, relate stories of its history, and interprets the artifacts for museum guests. Many docents are veterans of one of the armed services but many have no military experience—none is necessary, we will train you.
Events
Event Volunteering is ideal for those with less regular volunteering opportunities, these functions are typically one-off requests for event management assistance, space minders, directional guides, etc., including the 4th of July and significant anniversaries.
Safety and Security
The Security Division provides traditional security functions, such as safety, fire control, crowd control, and other similar functions. Here again, no particular experience is required. New volunteers receive training and must be at least 21 years of age for this division.
Ship Restoration
Ship Restoration volunteers paint, finish, and bring back to life internal spaces of the ship. Most recently, this team restored the Officer’s Galley, the Cobbler Shop, and the Forward Gun Mount and guns. Work is ongoing in a machinery space at present. No specialized background is required, other than team spirit and readiness for hands-on work.
Radio Division
Radio Division volunteers help restore and preserve Hornet electronic equipment, assist the Exhibits Department with immersive elements, and manage and participate in the USS Hornet Amateur Radio Club (NB6GC).
