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Volunteer with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

By Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

Dozens of volunteers have contributed thousands of hours each year to help HVO's staff monitor the active volcanoes of Hawaii and conduct research on various aspects of Hawaiian volcanism. The volunteers in turn gain experience working on active volcanoes and participating in observatory activities.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. 

Unprecedented seismic activity at the summit of Kīlauea between April 30 and August 4, 2018, (more than 1,600 magnitude-3+ earthquakes) badly damaged HVO, which is located on the rim of the volcano's summit caldera. Because of this damage, HVO staff had to vacate the building and relocate to temporary office space in Hilo. 

Given our current situation, we are unable to accept volunteer applications at this time, and it is unlikely that HVO will be able to accommodate new volunteers in the near future. If/when it is possible for us to again consider accepting volunteers, information will posted to this webpage. 

For now, learn more about other USGS volunteer opportunities by visiting the "Volunteer for Science Program Questions and Answers" webpage.