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Join Our Pack – Sniff Out a Volunteer Role!

Our events wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of volunteers like you. Whether you’re a seasoned scent work competitor or brand new to the sport, there’s a place for you on our team. Volunteering is a fun and rewarding way to connect with the community, support the sport you love, and learn more about how trials are run—plus, you’ll get a front-row seat to all the sniffing action! We welcome all levels of experience and will provide guidance to help you feel confident in your role.

Ready to jump in? Check out the roles below and see where your skills can shine!

Volunteer Role Descriptions

Chief Steward

Leads volunteer coordination, oversees daily event operations, and supports as needed (may include gate duties).

Time commitment: Full duration of the event (all trial days)

Timer 

Responsible for timing each competitor’s search run. This role requires commitment to an entire class.

Time commitment: One full element (e.g., Novice Containers)

HD Hide Steward

Handles and places hides for each competitor as instructed by the Judge. To avoid scent contamination, gloves (vinyl, latex, or nitrile) must be worn when managing containers or boxes.

Time commitment: One full element (e.g., Novice Containers)

Score Runner

Greets and checks in competitors and volunteers. May also assist at the Score Table by verifying score sheets are complete before they are entered into the system.

Time commitment: Full day or half-day.

Element Setup Crew

Works under the direction of the Judge to ensure each search element is properly prepared. Duties may include setting boundaries, start lines, and maintaining the judge’s line of sight.

Time commitment: Full day or half-day.

Gate Steward 

Manages the flow of competitors into the element area. Helps with pre-search staging and may assist with setting warm-up boxes. Gloves (vinyl, latex, or nitrile) are used when handling any scent-related materials.

Time commitment: One full element (e.g., Novice Containers)

Hot Box Steward

Solely responsible for managing the "hot" container that holds the odor source. This includes cleaning or wiping the container and placing it in the search area per the Judge’s instructions. Gloves must be worn at all times.

Time commitment: One full element (e.g., Novice Containers)

Cleanup Crew

Supports site prep for subsequent trial days and assists with breakdown and loading of trial supplies and equipment at the end of the event.

Time commitment: day of the event, post-trial.

Judge Steward

Ensures Judge has score sheet. Escorts competitors to the start line and reminds them of time limits. This role may also include light cleanup between competitors in the search area.

Time commitment: One full element (e.g., Novice Containers)

Registration Team 

Greets and checks in competitors and volunteers. May also assist at the Score Table by verifying score sheets are complete before they are entered into the system.

Time commitment: Morning of any trial day (flexible based on need)

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