Retail Assistant Volunteer

Closing Date: 18/07/2026
Apply
All Locations
Washington
What type of role are you interested in
Volunteer
Retail

About The Role

At WWT we believe the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them, so we bring awe-inspiring nature up close and let it do the talking. People feel part of something amazing and are motivated to make a difference.

By providing an excellent visitor experience as a member of the visitor services team, you will be encouraging our visitors to make the most of their visit to Washington Wetland Centre, and to understand and support our work to save wetlands for wildlife and people.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team, and we wouldn’t be able to maintain our internationally important wetland sites without their help. You will receive a very warm welcome, full induction & training, and be provided with the necessary equipment, uniform, and anything else needed to thrive in your role.

 

Main tasks

  • Working as part of the visitor services team (made up of staff and volunteers) to engage and inform our visitors – including developing a good knowledge of the history of WWT, its goals & values, and ongoing conservation projects.
  • Meeting and greeting visitors at the admissions desk.
  • Operating the till for admissions and the gift shop.
  • Familiarising yourself with events, activities, species sightings, and developments at the centre so that you can provide up-to-date information to our visitors.
  • Using leaflets and maps to point out the locations of significant events e.g. swan feeds or osprey updates.
  • Promoting membership of WWT - filling in membership forms in accordance with WWT guidelines, ensuring that all relevant paperwork is accurately completed.
  • Assisting with other tasks in the shop where necessary.

About You

No previous experience is required for this role as full training will be provided, and a willingness to learn new skills is more important.

This role would suit you if:

  • Have excellent verbal communication skills & listening skills.
  • Feel confident in interacting with members of the public and are able to adapt your approach to suit your audience.
  • Experience in using multi-operation tills.
  • Have a positive friendly attitude and commitment to excellent customer service.
  • Have an interest in and enthusiasm for the work of WWT.
  • Have the ability to work on your own initiative under the direction of your line manager.
  • Are committed to undertake the relevant training needed for the role.

 

General notes

We are looking for volunteers who can commit at least 1 day per week (to be agreed) 10am until 4pm. To ensure a positive volunteering experience for you and to provide a helpful contribution to the organisation, we hope you will be able to volunteer with for us for at least six months. This role is not suitable for people under 18 years.

About Us

We are WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether you’re looking to meet new people, learn new skills or spend time in our wildlife-rich wetlands, there’s a volunteer role for you. Just a few hours spent volunteering can really make a world of difference to our wildlife, and to you.

So, come surround yourself with the wonder of wetlands, and the people who inject their energy and passion into them. Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. The only question left is, what role will you play?

 

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT

  • Make a real contribution to the conservation work of WWT by helping to restore and conserve our internationally important wetland sites
  • Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded nature lovers who bring energy, passion, and expertise to their roles
  • Make new friends and become part of an inspiring and inclusive community
  • Gain relevant volunteering experience and learn & develop new skills
  • Get volunteer discount on WWT shops, café, and membership
  • Get free entry to all our UK wetland centres, including your family
  • Receive access to wildlife talks, webinars, and practical information to help you manage your volunteer role as well as daily life
  • Be kept informed on what’s happening across the WWT and the positive change you are helping to make happen

 

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