COSI Youth Operations Volunteers

# COSI Youth Operations Volunteers Youth Operations Volunteers is the teen track of the volunteer program at COSI (Center of Science and Industry), the Columbus science center. Youth volunteers become part of COSI's front-line team, helping guests explore exhibitions and supporting educators during programs - a rare chance for younger teens to work regularly inside a major science museum. ## What You'll Do - Greet and orient guests around COSI's exhibits and experiences - Support COSI educators during exhibits, demonstrations, and programs - Complete three structured weekend training sessions in October, November, and December before going on the floor - Build public-facing communication skills with museum staff mentors ## Who Should Apply Youth ages 13 and up are encouraged to apply. For the current cycle, the application goes live August 1, 2026 and closes August 15; applicants then attend an info/interview session at COSI on September 15, 16, or 17, and selected volunteers are notified by September 30. Plan ahead - the youth program regularly fills to capacity, and the three mandatory training dates (October 24/25, November 21/22, December 12/13) are required to join. ## Outcomes Volunteers gain sustained customer-service and science-communication experience at one of the country's best-known science centers, plus documented volunteer hours, reference-ready supervisors, and an inside track on future museum roles.