Northwest Railway Museum Volunteer Program
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Northwest Railway Museum. Whether you want to explore personal interests or learn a new skill, our volunteer program has something for everyone. This is a great way to meet new people who share your passions, while supporting the excitement and influence of railway history in WA state. Families can volunteer together or you can volunteer individually! Join the Northwest Railway Museum and share the excitement of a working railroad!
On this page, you will find information about our volunteer program and instructions on how to apply. Click on the blue tabs for information about each area of volunteer interest. Please note that all volunteers age 16 and over are subject to a WSP background check during the application process. If you have questions about our volunteer program, contact our Volunteer Coordinator at info@TrainMuseum.org.
Train Crew
Schedule
Train Crew serve weekends during our Running Trades Program, or passenger rail program, (April through October), during special events (through December), and as needed for chartered and educational programs throughout the year. Shifts are typically 8 hours and include built in break times.
Train Crew serve at least one shift a month, at least one shift during special events, and as needed for chartered educational programs throughout the year.
Qualifications
Our skilled Train Crew receive extensive training. No previous train experience is required to begin!
Minimum age is 16 years or older with some positions reserved for those 18 and 21 years or older. (Volunteers under 16 years of age might consider Conductor’s Assistant or Special Events Volunteering) Train Crew qualifications vary by position but all volunteers must pass our Museum issued Rules and Regulations test and hold current certifications issued by the Museum. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator for more information.
*Historically, train related job descriptions included gender specific terms such as “Trainman” or “Brakeman.” The Northwest Railway Museum uses these historical terms to denote Train Crew positions. In no way is the use of gender specific language intended to discriminate against individuals who do not identify as male.



Conductor's Assistant
Schedule
Conductor’s Assistants serve weekends during our Running Trades Program, or passenger rail program, (April through October) and during special events (through December). Shifts are dependent upon the availability of qualified Conductors. We ask Conductor’s Assistants to serve frequently to retain and practice newly acquired skills.
Qualifications
Conductor’s assistants are between the ages of 12 and 16 and demonstrate an understanding of and adherence to safety procedures. All training is provided by Museum appointed qualified Conductors.

Docent Program
Docents share their passion for history with visitors by interpreting the Museum’s collection in the Train Shed Exhibit Building, the Snoqualmie Depot, and the history of the railway during train rides. Docents lead engaging tours that help visitors understand how the railroad changed everything.
Schedule
Docents serve weekends during our Running Trades Program, or passenger rail program, (April through October), during special events (through December), and for educational programming year round. Shifts are typically 3 to 4 hours long.
Qualifications
Minimum age is 16 years or older. Docents must complete our Docent training program, a multi-week course offered each spring. Docents must demonstrate an understanding of the museum’s interpretive program, creativity, and critical thinking.
Conservation and Restoration Workshop Volunteers
Schedule
CRW Volunteers schedule shifts based on staff availability and project need. Our CRW is open 6 days a week. Weekday and weekend shifts are available.
Qualifications
CRW volunteers must be 16 years of age or older. While no experience is required to participate, volunteers must demonstrate an exemplary adherence to safety procedures and be able to follow staff instruction.




Collection Support
Qualifications
We are currently accepting college level interns in a museum related field for support in the Library and Archives.


Special Events Volunteers
Schedule
Special Events Volunteers serve during special events, July through December. We ask Special Events Volunteers to consider serving at least one shift per special event.
Qualifications
Special Events Volunteers need only enthusiasm and some time!


Special Project Volunteers
Apply Online
Volunteer Benefits
- 10% discount in the Depot Bookstore
- Reciprocal free admission to regional museum's during National Volunteer Week, every April
- Invitation to annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration
- Access to training and continued education