Volunteers are at the heart of CHM, supporting nearly every department across the Museum. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication help bring the stories of computing to life for visitors of all ages.
The CHM Volunteer Program offers flexible entry points, training levels, and time commitments, making it easy to get involved. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, to share your skills, or be part of a vibrant community, there’s a meaningful role waiting for you.
Volunteers must be 18 or older, able to pass a criminal background check, and willing to commit to the scheduling requirements associated with their volunteer role.
Docents at the Computer History Museum help make computing history accessible and engaging through tours and conversations. By sharing stories and big ideas, they help visitors of all ages understand technology’s past, present, and future impact on humanity. No prior experience is required—just curiosity, enthusiasm, and a love of learning. We especially welcome those interested in working with K–12 students.
Apply here.
Demonstrators bring restored legacy computers to life through interactive conversations with Museum visitors, sharing their history, operation, and impact. Demonstrators are trained to work with one of several iconic systems including the IBM 1401, PDP-1, or IBM RAMAC, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience computing history in action.
Apply here.
Visitor Engagement Volunteers are the welcoming face of the Computer History Museum. They create a warm, inclusive, and memorable experience at CHM by greeting visitors, answering questions, and connecting people with the stories and resources that make computing history meaningful. This role is perfect for friendly, reliable volunteers who enjoy working with people in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
No prior experience is required, just a positive attitude and a willingness to jump in where needed.
Apply here.
The Special Projects Support volunteer provides flexible, short-term assistance across multiple departments at the Computer History Museum. This role supports a wide range of project-based needs such as administrative tasks, event preparation, mailings, research support, and other behind-the-scenes activities that help staff and volunteers advance CHM’s mission. Ideal for volunteers who enjoy variety, teamwork, and contributing wherever support is needed most.
Apply here.
Collections & Archives Volunteers support the care, documentation, and accessibility of the Museum’s collections. Volunteers assist with improving the quality and accuracy of catalog records, organizing and storing artifacts, and documenting archival materials. This behind-the-scenes work helps preserve computing history while increasing the visibility and accessibility of CHM’s collections for researchers and audiences around the world. These volunteer opportunities take place offsite at our Collections and Archives facilities. Previous collections experience is required.
Apply here.
Interested in becoming a CHM volunteer? We’d love to connect with you! For more information about current opportunities, please contact Janelle Graves, Volunteer Manager, at [email protected] or 650-810-1898.
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