Title: Youth Ambassador for Education (Y.A.E) - Fall/Winter Cohort 2026-2027
Department: Education
Rate: Unpaid (community service hours provided)
The Youth Ambassadors for Education (Y.A.E.) at Frost Science is a unique program that gives teens aged 16-19 the opportunity to gain leadership skills, connect with museum professionals, and earn community service hours. Youth Ambassadors will volunteer with the Frost Science education department, helping further the museum's mission of creating engaging programming that connects the public to science and technology. Along the way, Y.A.E. participants will gain valuable workplace skills, create connections with like-minded individuals, and have exclusive opportunities to meet with museum professionals to grow in their own professional development.
This is a competitive program with limited availability. Students who are interested in the program must undergo an application and interview process and have parent/guardian consent.
Availability Requirements:
Program length: October 2026 - March 2027
Must fulfill a minimum of 8 hours per month during October, November, December, January, February, and March.
In addition to 8 hour monthly requirement, must volunteer as a junior counselor for a minimum of 2 full days (9:00 am - 5:00 pm) during Frost Science Winter Camp, December 21-24 and December 28-31.
Must be able to attend the mandatory orientation day, date TBA.
Key Responsibilities:
Assist the Frost Science Education department with various educational program duties including but not limited to:
Material preparation
Providing aid during educational programming
Post-program break down
Supports delivery and implementation of youth programs such as camps, classes, in-museum learning (public programs), special event days, and workshops.
Effectively work with museum staff and other volunteers.
Assist as event aides during special event days and providing help before and after special event days
Learn science content to convey to museum guests when assisting with public program activities
Program benefits:
Community service hours for all attended shifts and attended benefit opportunities.
Quarterly professional development opportunities such as resume reviews, interview workshops, meet the expert programs, and training in various science education skills.
Opportunity to participate in monthly MUVE Volunteer Workdays to receive community service hours and help restore coastal ecosystems.
Access to the Attraction Share Vouchers Program, which grants free admission to participating area attractions and complimentary or discounted entry for up to three guests.
A Frost Science hat after 50 hours.
A one-year individual membership with associated benefits, including 10% discount at the museum café and store and 20% discount on all Laser Evening shows after 100 hours.
Upon completion of 5 years as an active Volunteer, meeting the outlined requirements, individuals are eligible for a membership upgrade to a Crew Membership, extending associated benefits to friends and family members.
Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities:
The Youth Ambassadors for Education at Frost Science are expected to be friendly, courteous and represent the museum in a positive, professional, and supportive manner at all times.
Interest in science, education values aligned with Frost Science’s mission.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Reliable and punctual, with good attendance.
Positive attitude.
Strong interpersonal and public speaking skills.
Strong organizational skills.
Experience working with children, youth and/or families.
Ability to adapt quickly and work in fast pace, ever changing environments with individuals of various backgrounds.
Must be 16 years or older.
Must wear a Frost Science volunteer T-shirt and fulfill other dress code requirements as listed in the Frost Science Youth Ambassador for Education handbook for the duration of all on-site shifts.
Physical Requirements & Environment This volunteer role may involve standing, walking, and engaging with guests for extended periods. Volunteers may occasionally lift up to 30 pounds and assist with activities outdoors in varying weather conditions. The museum includes both indoor and outdoor spaces, and volunteers may be exposed to sun, rain, or heat during their shift. If you require accommodations to participate, please let us know—we’re happy to work with you!
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Level 2 background clearance as defined by applicable Florida Statutes, completed through the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse:
https://info.flclearinghouse.com
Drug screening as part of the Museum’s Drug-Free Workplace Program
Must receive consent from parent/guardian to participate in the program.
Must be at least 16 years of age.
Physical Requirements & Environment:
This volunteer role may involve standing, walking, and engaging with guests for extended periods. Volunteers may occasionally lift up to 30 pounds and assist with activities outdoors in varying weather conditions. The museum includes both indoor and outdoor spaces, and volunteers may be exposed to sun, rain, or heat during their shift. If you require accommodations to participate, please let us know—we’re happy to work with you!
In 1949, The Junior League of Miami's "Project Finding Committee" determined that Dade County's children needed a science museum. The Junior Museum of Miami, a private non-profit organization, was established in 1950 in a house on the corner of Biscayne Boulevard and 26th Street. The Junior Museum expanded so quickly that in 1952 it was forced to move to the Miami Women's Club building on Bayshore Drive. It was then christened the Museum of Science and Natural History.
The institution, however, again began outgrowing its new space. By 1960, the first building of the community's new science museum opened its doors. The facility, located on three acres of the historic Vizcaya complex, was built and furnished rent-free by the County.
Late 1966 saw the construction of a Space Transit Planetarium which soon became the leading facility of its kind in the world. Its activities now include international television programming.
In 1989, the Museum's lease agreement with the County for the Vizcaya site was extended for 99 years.
During the last decade, the Museum has expanded to provide space for 4,000 member families, over 250,000 annual visitors, one of the largest summer science camps in the nation (ages 3 to 14) and countless additional exhibits, collections and activities. The yearly operating budget has grown to 2.5 million dollars.
Present science education needs in South Florida again require expansion of these facilities. Though the history of the institution can be charted by the growth of its facility, this story is ultimately one of people. For almost 50 years, the Miami Science Museum and Space Transit Planetarium has been nurtured by a legion of tireless volunteers and generous contributors. Their abundance of vision and dedication has rarely been equaled by any other civic group in the city's history. Here, the greatness of the accomplishment can be found.
