Volunteers

The Varsity Cinema is operated by the nonprofit Des Moines Film, dedicated to providing inclusive and impactful film experiences. Volunteers play a vital role in achieving those goals! Outlined below are the volunteer roles that are currently available.

Theater Attendant
Theater Attendant volunteers provide wayfinding, confirm that films are running correctly, and make sure that theaters are ready to welcome guests. This position will report to the Manager on duty.

Responsibilities
– Ensure that the theater space is clean before and after a film plays. Cleaning may include tasks such as vacuuming, sweeping, and replacing the trash.
– Have basic knowledge of the history of the Varsity Cinema, membership, and other frequently asked questions.
– Direct guests to their seats as they arrive for their film.
– Confirm that films are successfully playing. This includes making basic checks on projection, sound, lights, and temperature.
– Report inappropriate guest behavior to the manager on duty during the run of the film.

Theater Attendant volunteers are asked to arrive one hour before the film is scheduled to begin. They are invited to watch the film after their pre-show tasks are completed. Volunteers receive a free small popcorn and fountain drink with their shift.

In order to serve in the Theater Attendant role, a 1 hour training must be completed before the start of the first shift.

Concessions Attendant
Concession Attendant volunteers provide front-of-house customer service and support staff during high-traffic showtimes and events. This position will report to the Manager on duty.

Responsibilities
– Complete transactions through the point-of-sales.
– Serve canned, on-tap, or mixed drinks.
– Make and serve popcorn.
– Have basic knowledge of the history of the Varsity Cinema, membership, and other frequently asked questions.
– Perform basic cleaning duties such as sweeping, wiping down counters, cleaning dishes, and other tasks.

Concessions Attendant Volunteers will be scheduled on an as needed basis. The length of shifts will be determined based on the need of the organization and the availability of the volunteer, with a maximum of four hours per shift. This position has the possibility of consistent scheduling. Volunteers receive a free ticket, small popcorn, and small fountain drink per shift.

In order to serve in the Concessions Attendant role, a 1 hour training must be completed before the start of the first shift.

Apply to Volunteer
To learn more about these positions or to apply to be a volunteer at the Varsity Cinema, please contact Regen Kuker, Assistant Director of Operations, at volunteer@desmoinesfilm.org.