Aquarium Floor Guide

The Maritime Aquarium•Norwalk, CT

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Maritime Aquarium’s Education Department is seeking part-time Aquarium Floor Guides to serve as educational guides and ambassadors for Aquarium guests. Guides share knowledge and create engaging experiences for people of all ages and abilities. Ideal candidates are passionate about the environment and animals and enjoy working with people. They support the Aquarium’s values of integrity and excellence, wellness and safety, partnership, inclusion and respect, and innovative and sustainable solutions. The required schedule is Saturday and Sunday, with availability for one weekday. The role sometimes involves extended hours, including weekends, holidays, early mornings, and some evening programs. Work is primarily indoors, with seasonal outdoor opportunities, in a fast-paced environment. The position pays $19.21 per hour.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
High school diploma or GED required.
Comfortable working with a diverse population, including groups of children.
Comfortable and confident with public speaking and using microphones; able to communicate effectively in noisy, crowded situations.
Outgoing personality and enthusiastic, flexible attitude, with willingness to learn.
Ability to multitask and exercise good judgment.
Ability to work independently or with a supervisor to address guest challenges and expectations.
Strong desire to provide exceptional guest experiences and share knowledge with guests of all ages and backgrounds.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to stand for extended periods.
Ability to move large objects around the Aquarium.
Availability for two weekend days and at least one weekday per week.

Nice To Haves

Interpretive training and experience preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Work with diverse audiences in a variety of Aquarium settings.
Proactively greet guests and engage them in conversations and activities.
Facilitate programs and roving interpretation, including animal training and feeding demonstrations, Aquarium tours, and public engagement programs.
Engage guests at interactive touch-pool stations for jellies, sturgeon, intertidal habitats, sharks, and rays.
Present live animal encounters.
Facilitate mission celebration events, such as Earth Day and World Ocean Day.
Facilitate play in the Sea & Discover Zone, an early childhood space.
Oversee craft and other Aquarium interactive carts.
Lead birthday parties.
Participate in overnight program activities, including tours and crafts.
Provide hands-on guest engagement activities during special events.
Assist with the Aquarium’s teen volunteer program.