Downtown Oceanside Ambassador – Welcome & Info Booth Volunteer

Downtown Ambassadors play an important role in creating a positive first impression for people exploring the area. Hosted by MainStreet Oceanside in partnership with Visit Oceanside and the City of Oceanside Economic Development, the program operates from late May through early September at the downtown information booth on Pier View Way near the pedestrian underpass.

By greeting visitors, answering questions, and sharing recommendations for restaurants, shops, museums, events, parking, and transportation, volunteers help visitors navigate downtown and discover what Oceanside has to offer. Ambassadors also help collect basic visitor feedback, which helps improve the downtown experience and support local businesses.

Through this program, volunteers help strengthen community pride, support economic vitality, and ensure that everyone who visits downtown feels welcomed and informed.

Opportunity Requirements & Important Notes

Key Responsibilities:

Help welcome visitors and residents to Downtown Oceanside and connect them with the businesses, attractions, and experiences that make our downtown vibrant. Downtown Ambassadors will staff the downtown information booth and serve as welcoming guides for visitors and residents. Volunteer responsibilities may include:

• Greeting visitors and welcoming them to Downtown Oceanside

• Providing directions and recommendations for restaurants, shops, museums, and attractions

• Sharing information about downtown events, activities, and programs

• Answering general questions about parking, transportation, and navigating the area

• Distributing maps or informational materials when available

• Collecting basic visitor feedback or data to help improve the downtown experience

Required Skills/Experience: 

• Friendly and enjoys interacting with people

• Reliable and able to show up for scheduled shifts

• Comfortable answering questions and giving basic directions

Desired Skills/Experience: 

• Familiarity with Oceanside or willingness to learn

• Customer service or hospitality experience

• Bilingual speakers, especially Spanish, are desired

Time Commitment: We encourage Downtown Ambassadors to sign up for the same weekly shift, but one-time registrations are also welcome.

Onboarding Process: Volunteers will need to submit an application to MainStreet Oceanside and complete one two-hour training session. Applications are processed within 1 week of submission, and training is scheduled on an as-needed basis. You can sign up for a shift here after completing a training session. 

Physical Requirements: Downtown Ambassadors will have the option to stand or sit during their shift. Some bending may be required when unloading/packing up informational materials at the beginning or end of a shift. This project is able to make accommodations for individuals with physical limitations. Volunteers are welcome to sit or stand in the booth. Wheelchair users are welcome and there is accessible parking nearby.

Attire: Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes appropriate for standing and interacting with visitors outdoors. Weather-appropriate items such as sunscreen, hats, or light jackets are recommended.

About MainStreet Foundation

The Mission of MainStreet Oceanside is to make Downtown Oceanside a pedestrian friendly community with unique and exciting attractions including both daytime and evening activities for residents and visitors alike.