Spanish Programming Events Team
Supports all Spanish-language workshops and events. Requires native Spanish fluency and familiarity with Mexico’s literary scene
2027 Conference
Volunteer at the 2027 San Miguel Writers’ Conference & Literary Festival
We’re so glad you’re here—and grateful that you’re considering joining our incredible volunteer team for 2027! Volunteers are at the heart of this festival. Whether you’re guiding someone to their first workshop, supporting a keynote speaker behind the scenes, or capturing the magic of a packed reading, your presence helps shape the warmth, creativity, and connection that define this conference. Please fill out the application form HERE.
Thank you for your Interest in Volunteering
We are looking for volunteers who bring warmth, dependability, and a desire to help create a smooth and joyful experience for all!
Last year was our biggest conference yet and this year our global footprint and impact is increasing as well. Our volunteers help welcome writers, readers, authors, poets, and anyone interested in the literary arts from all over the world. As the conference has grown so too have our volunteer needs. We have various expertise needs for volunteer teams including a need for specific and tech backgrounds.
We truly wish we could accept every volunteer applicant — your time and enthusiasm mean a great deal to us. However, we have a limited number of volunteer positions and must prioritize filling roles that meet the conference’s operational needs. For this reason, preference will be given to applicants who are bilingual and/or have the specific technical skills required by certain departments. Thank you for understanding and for your interest in supporting the Festival.
Volunteer Roles
Workshops Team
Supports workshop logistics and attendee flow. Best for returning volunteers or those familiar with conference rhythm.
Ballroom Ushers Team
Manages seating and access at large events like keynotes. No prior knowledge required—just a calm presence and clear communication.
Program Events Team
Oversees entry and check-in for readings, open mics, the big read, and author events. Ideal for volunteers familiar with the venue layout and conference flow.
Agents & Consultations Team
Oversees entry and check-in for consultations and agent pitch sessions. Volunteers manage multiple simultaneous appointments.
Social Events Team
Welcomes guests at the Fiesta, receptions, happy hours, and affinity spaces. Best for locals or those who know their way around San Miguel.
Concierge & Wayfinders Team
This team answers guest questions about the program, logistics, restaurants, and local tips. This team helps attendees get to the right place and feel welcomed. First point of contact for guests. Requires strong knowledge of San Miguel and conference programming.
Production Team
Supports room setup, session turnover, signage, decor, and logistics. Best for dependable, detail-oriented volunteers who love bringing a production to life. Must be comfortable with light physical tasks and longer shifts.
Tech Team
Supports A/V setup and live tech needs during keynotes, panels, and workshops. Best for volunteers with A/V experience or comfort with tech.
Ticketing Team
Manages attendee check-in and materials, and ticket sales using event systems and spreadsheets. Best for tech-comfortable volunteers who thrive in fast moving environments.
Bookstore Team
Supports book sales and author signings at the bookstore and keynote tables. Ideal for volunteers with retail experience, mobile tech-sales platform comfort, and a love of books.
Marketing and Communications Team
Captures and curates conference content through video, phots, writing, and social media. Best for professionals with creative and/or media experience open to donating their services.
VOLUNTEER BENEFITS & APPLICATION FORM
GENERAL VOLUNTEER BENEFITS
3 Keynotes
10 Literary Spotlight Events
1 Plenary Session
Access to All Free Events
Volunteer Party
50% discount for the Opening Reception, the Closing Reception, and the Fiesta
LEAD VOLUNTEER BENEFITS
Lead Volunteers take on added responsibility—supporting scheduling, training, and team coordination before and during the conference. Each team has one Lead.
8 Keynotes
2 Panels
1 Plenary Session
1 Opening Reception
1 Closing Reception
1 Fiesta
10 Literary Spotlight Events
Access to All Free Events
Volunteer Party
APPLICATION FORM
Please fill out the application form HERE.
QUESTIONS?
If you have questions about the volunteer program, please email us at: [email protected]
NOTE: To ensure a fair and balanced experience for everyone, we ask that all volunteers be available for at least 4 out of the 5 conference days, with the ability to work at least one shift per day. Shifts vary between 4 and 8 hours.
Ready to learn more about the conference?
Join the Global Institute Community
For more than two decades, the San Miguel Global Literary Institute has brought together voices from around the world. Connect and help shape the future of literary exchange.