Upward Bound Math and Science Volunteer (unpaid)

Volunteer Position Title: Academic Volunteer

Department: Education

Reports To: Project Director, UBMS-IMPACT

Location: Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science, Miami, FL

About the Program

Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) is a federally funded program hosted at the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science. The program supports students from Miami-Dade County's Title I high schools in preparing for college and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through academic support, college readiness programming, and hands-on STEM experiences, UBMS equips students with the knowledge and confidence to pursue higher education and long-term success.

Position Overview

UBMS is seeking responsible and motivated individuals to serve as Volunteer Academic Mentors. Volunteers play a key role in helping high school students succeed by offering tutoring, mentorship, and guidance on college and career planning. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about education and youth development to make a meaningful impact in their community.

Volunteers will work collaboratively with UBMS staff and contribute to structured programming designed to support student academic achievement and personal growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide academic support in core high school subjects such as math, science, english, and social studies.

• Assist students in strengthening study habits, time management, and organizational skills.

• Support college readiness efforts, including application guidance and basic financial aid information.

• Participate in workshops and assist with delivering content on academic or personal development topics.

• Help maintain a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment for all participants.

• Communicate regularly with program staff and attend scheduled meetings or training sessions as needed.

Qualifications

Required:

• Must be at least 18 years old.

• Currently enrolled in or graduated from a college or university (preference for those studying or working in STEM, education, or related fields).

• Strong academic knowledge in at least one high school core subject area.

• Enthusiasm for mentoring and supporting high school students.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred but Not Required:

• Prior experience tutoring or mentoring youth.

• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish or Haitian Creole.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ENVIRONMENT

This role involves standing, walking, and engaging with guests for extended periods. Volunteers may occasionally lift up to 30 pounds and assist outdoors in varying weather conditions. The environment includes both indoor and outdoor spaces at the museum, where volunteers may be exposed to sun, rain, or heat during their shift. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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.