Aquarium Educator (PT)

Maritime Aquarium•Norwalk, CT

About The Position

The Maritime Aquarium’s Education Department delivers programs and activities for people of all ages and abilities at the Aquarium, in classrooms, at schools, beaches and regional events, aboard its research vessel, and on the Aquarium floor. The department is seeking people passionate about the natural world, education, and aquariums. A range of skills and backgrounds may be useful, including experience working with children or people with disabilities, Spanish fluency, public speaking, boating experience, and field-science certifications. The Aquarium Educator teaches hands-on STEM and science programs, tours, and experiences for school groups, camps, and scouts, with participants ranging from preschool through college. Programs may be delivered at the Aquarium, at offsite venues, outdoors, or online. The role also facilitates guest experiences centered on Aquarium animals and conservation, leads Summer Camp and/or after-school programming, prepares materials and reviews curricula, follows animal-handling protocols, completes related administrative tasks, and participates in training and professional development. This is a part-time position paying $21.75 per hour, with a required schedule of at least three days per week and varied hours.

Requirements

College degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.
Experience working with children in an educational setting.
Eagerness to work with people of various backgrounds and ages.
Positive attitude and enthusiasm.
Excellent interpersonal and public speaking skills.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of local marine flora, fauna, and natural history.
Current driver’s license with a clean driving record.
Teaching experience.
Spanish language fluency.
Ability to lift and maneuver materials weighing up to 60 lbs.
Boating experience, preferably as crew or educator.
Experience working with individuals or groups with disabilities.
Certifications related to field sciences.

Responsibilities

Teach programs and facilitate hands-on STEM and science activities, tours, and experiences for school groups, camps, and scouts, serving participants from preschool through college.
Deliver programs at the Aquarium, schools and other offsite venues, outdoors, and online.
Facilitate educational experiences for Aquarium guests focused on animals and conservation messaging.
Lead programming for Summer Camp and/or after-school series.
Prepare for programs by reviewing outlines and curriculum, organizing and packing materials, and following animal-handling protocols.
Complete program-related administrative tasks in a timely manner.
Participate in department trainings and professional development.