Submarine Tour Guide; age + Referral

Overview

Boost OMSI's impact by providing tours of the last non-nuclear submarine in the U.S. Navy.

OMSI's mission is to inspire curiosity through engaging science learning experiences, foster experimentation, and the exchange of ideas, and stimulate informed action. The Submarine team utilizes the USS Blueback as its backdrop to showcase how engineering, math and technology work together, both now and in the past.

Submarine Tour Guides provide tours of the USS Blueback, a diesel-electric submarine of the Barbel class, launched in 1959. It was one of the first subs to have a “teardrop-shaped” hull, and it was the last non-nuclear submarine in the U.S. Navy, decommissioned in 1990. It was brought to OMSI in 1994 and is open for organized tours during daylight hours when OMSI is open.

Detailed training related to these tours and safety protocols will be provided to volunteers.

• Lead interpretive tours with guests on the USS Blueback submarine.
• Develop a complete and thorough understanding of the USS Blueback and its sub-systems.
• Perform maintenance and administrative tasks as needed.
• Provide quality customer service to visitors and perform crowd management duties, acting as a ticket-taker, as needed.
• Master all boat safety and emergency procedures.
• Utilize a 2-way radio to communicate with staff regarding the number of tour guests and arrival times.
• When necessary, encourage parties to adhere to OMSI’s safety protocols, including social distancing and wearing protective face coverings.

• Interest in supporting the USS Blueback or submarine science education.
• Strong communication, public speaking and customer service skills.
• Comfortable speaking to 1-14 tour guests with the use of a microphone.
• Foreign language skills or naval background highly desirable.
• Able to listen to and communicate with people of diverse backgrounds, education levels, and ages.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Able to maintain a calm and cheerful demeanor in a variety of atmospheres.

• Shift Times: 9:30 to 1:30 pm or 1:30 to 5:30 pm
• Minimum number of hours: 8 hours per month, 4 hours per shift
• Minimum age: 18 years
• Attend the following trainings or classes provided by OMSI:
  Volunteer Orientation, Emergency Protocols, Customer Service training, Role Specific training

• Training opportunities and a lifelong learning experience.
• Admission for the volunteer to the museum exhibits and attractions based on availability.
• An OMSI Family Membership upon completion of 50 hours of volunteer service.
• Discounts in the OMSI Science Store and on-site restaurants based on availability.
• The opportunity to meet many new people and learn more about OMSI.

Volunteers boost OMSI’s impact by welcoming visitors, supporting exhibits, and assisting with science demonstrations that make learning engaging. They play a key role in events and outreach programs, extending OMSI’s reach across Portland. Volunteer’s enthusiasm, expertise, and generosity strengthen community connections and ensure OMSI can offer high-quality, hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity and innovation for everyone.

Requirements:
Age 18+.

Referral Opportunity: This opportunity is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. After you express interest, the partner will contact you with next steps and confirmation details.

Hands On Greater Portland

Hours:

Your hours may not appear in your Hands On account because this is a partner‑managed opportunity.

After expressing interest, the Opportunity Leader will contact you to confirm participation and provide directions for this opportunity.

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