Team Tesla

What do Team Tesla Volunteers Do?
Team Tesla volunteers assist in hands-on science education activities for families. We are looking for teens who are excited about working with kids and want to spark others' interest in science! Team Tesla volunteers need to be comfortable speaking and interacting with guests of all ages. The museum can be a very busy place, so be prepared for a loud, fast-paced environment.

What are the application requirements?
Candidates must submit a completed digital application with a letter of recommendation from a present or former educator and/or a community leader who is not related to you. Applications must be submitted by May 1st. Late applications will not be accepted.

Will I need to interview?
Yes, all applicants will receive an invitation to attend an interview session on Saturdays in May (5/2, 5/9, & 5/16). You do not need to bring anything with you to the interview, but you may want to practice answering common interview questions beforehand. Parents may attend the interview, but all questions will be directed to the student applicant, and they must reply in their own words.

Am I guaranteed a spot in the program if I apply?
No, we receive more applications for the program than we have available spots. Please keep this in mind when you are filling out your application; it will serve as your introduction before we have a chance to meet you. We want to see thoughtful answers that reflect your unique perspective and voice. We expect the candidate to complete the application, not their parent or guardian. All Team Tesla volunteers must follow our guidelines for conduct and be courteous to staff and guests. Team Tesla volunteers who do not adhere to our expectations may be expelled from the program at any time.

When will I find out if I have been selected for the program?
All decisions will be sent out via email by May 20th. Selected volunteers will have one week (by 5/27) to return their signed offer letter accepting their place in the program and committing to attend the mandatory training season on May 30th, 2026.

If I am accepted, what are the training requirements?
All Team Tesla Volunteers (new and returning) are required to attend a general training session on May 30th, from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM.

What would my schedule look like?
Summer shifts are scheduled from June 2nd, 2026 through August 8th, 2026. Summer Camp shifts are available Mondays-Fridays, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, 8:00 AM-12:00 PM, or 1:00 PM-5:00 PM. Tinkering Studio shifts are available Tuesdays-Sundays, 1:00 PM-5:00 PM. Discovery Table and Exhibit Facilitation shifts are available Tuesdays-Sundays, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM or 1:00 PM-5:00 PM. Team Tesla Volunteers will select what assignments they are most interested in, and a weekly schedule will be built from there. Volunteers will be expected to attend their assigned schedule weekly unless prior arrangements have been made with the Volunteer Coordinator.

Is there a minimum number of hours required to be completed?
Volunteers are expected to complete 40 hours between June and August. Completion of minimum service hours allows volunteers to continue volunteering during the following school year and be guaranteed a Team Tesla position in the following summer session. Team Tesla Volunteers are also invited to assist with special events or on weekends during the school year. Volunteers must complete 40 hours to qualify for a personalized letter of recommendation from the Volunteer Coordinator.

Can parents/guardians attend the orientation and training session?
No. However, all teen volunteers will be sent home with a complete handbook and information packet. A parent/guardian must fill out the appropriate forms and sign their portion of the Volunteer contract and return them to the Volunteer Coordinator before the volunteer begins their first shift. The overall goal of the volunteer program is for teens to continue for multiple years and build their skills as a career development program.

Can parents/guardians come with their child when they volunteer?
No. We view this program as a professional development opportunity for our Team Tesla Volunteers, and we place a high degree of trust in them. Our volunteers interview, receive special training, and maintain a schedule while developing strong customer service, public speaking, and other skills that will aid in their future careers. We find that volunteers learn more when they are allowed to explore and experience on their own.

Is there a dress code for volunteers?
You will be given a shirt identifying you as a volunteer, which must be worn for all shifts at the museum. You will also be given a lanyard with an identification badge showing you are an official volunteer, which must also be worn in view at all times. Do not wear pants or jeans that are ripped, torn, stained, or excessively dirty. Shorts or skirts must reach at least below your fingertips when your arms are straight down your sides and must also be clean and presentable. Cell phones are not allowed on the exhibit floor and must be kept in a volunteer locker at all times while on shift.

Why should I volunteer?
Because it’s fun! There are countless reasons to volunteer. This is an opportunity for new and unique experiences while also meeting the needs of your community. Volunteers get to:

• Make new friends and be part of a team
• Explore career and personal interests
• Share the joy of exploring with others
• Learn something new and uncover hidden skills or talents

Mid-America Science Museum also extends these valuable benefits to our volunteers:

• Free pass to MASM to share with friends and family for every 10 hours served by August.
• Employee discount in the Museum Store for the duration of volunteer service
• Letters of recommendation/reference based on service, upon request, after completion of 40 hours