Volunteer at CIFF50

Volunteer positions are now open for CIFF50! Join us for our 50th Festival and be part of the excitement. You’ll help keep screenings running smoothly while supporting independent filmmakers and Cleveland’s creative community.
Become a Volunteer

Why Volunteer with the Cleveland International Film Festival?

CIFF volunteers are the heart of the festival, and it’s a fun way to meet people who love film and Cleveland as much as you do. Many volunteers come back year after year because of the connections they make.

Volunteering is straightforward: show up ready to help, follow the code of conduct, and commit to your scheduled shifts. Most roles involve standing, walking, and supporting guests in busy venue spaces. If you’re friendly, reliable, and happy to pitch in, you’ll fit right in.

To volunteer at CIFF50, you must be 18 or older by your first shift, complete the CIFF50 Volunteer Intake Form, and attend a volunteer orientation before your initial shift. You should be committed to a minimum of two shifts, either pre-festival or during the festival. Volunteers need to be able to stand and walk for several hours, climb stairs, lift up to 10 pounds, and follow verbal and written instructions as well as the CIFF Volunteer Code of Conduct.

Here’s what you can expect as a CIFF volunteer

Support the operations of the regions largest film festival

Meet fellow film lovers, work as a team, and build festival friendships.

Earn Free Film Vouchers

Get two film vouchers per shift, plus a volunteer appreciation party invite.

Get Free Parking

Receive complimentary parking during your volunteer shift.

CIFF Volunteer Merch

New volunteers get a volunteer T-shirt, and returning volunteers have the chance to show off gear from previous festivals

CIFF50 Volunteering Roles and Responsibilities

Ticket Scanning & Entry Support

Volunteers assist with welcoming attendees and scanning tickets and passes at the theatre and event entrances to ensure smooth entry.

Ballot Distribution & Collection

Volunteers help distribute and collect ballots at select screenings and assist with audience participation processes.

Audience Support & Wayfinding

Volunteers help attendees navigate Festival venues, answer general questions, and ensure guests feel welcomed and informed throughout their visit.

Theatre & Venue Support

Volunteers assist with maintaining orderly theatre entrances and exits, supporting transitions between screenings, and helping ensure screenings run smoothly.

Hospitality & Lounge Support

Volunteers assist with maintaining hospitality areas, helping keep spaces organized, clean, and welcoming for attendees

Administrative & Pre-Festival Support

Volunteers may assist with general administrative tasks, materials preparation, and other operational needs leading up to and during the Festival.

General Festival Support

Volunteers may be assigned to a variety of roles that support Festival operations, guest experience, and overall event success.

Be Part of the CIFF50 Volunteer Crew

New volunteers can get started with a quick intake form, and returning volunteers can confirm their info for CIFF50. Once you’re in, we’ll follow up with orientation details and scheduling steps.
New Volunteer Intake Form
Returning Volunteer Intake Form