POSITION SUMMARY: WAVE Foundation’s Conservation Education Coordinator(s) serve(s) as an instructor for WAVE education programs and a leader for the department goals and other educators. The Conservation Education Coordinator is instrumental in the delivery and development of curriculum for WAVE Education programs. Under the supervision of the Conservation Education Manager, Coordinator will develop and implement curriculum for education programs, ensure programs are in alignment with state and national academic and social/emotional learning standards, promote programming, and serve as an ambassador for WAVE. This position is critical to the delivery and maintenance of WAVE’s high quality educational programming.
Required Skills
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide leadership in the Conservation Education department as a mentor and contributor with an optimistic attitude about future growth for yourself, team members, and the organization
- Be inclusive to all team members by showing interest and care for their thoughts, feelings, and ideas
- Give freely of your time and talents for the betterment of the team and facilitate the same from your team members by recognizing their contributions
- Recognize your own mistakes and accept feedback sincerely, also offer feedback and understanding when others are in nee
- Lead the development and delivery of WAVE Education programs and initiatives – Specific programming will vary based on current department offerings and staffing
- Examples include: Camp WAVE, job shadows, community outreach, after-school partnerships, discovery stations, Gills Club, community based science, and events
- Maintain or contribute to an active and relevant social media presence for WAVE Foundation
- Assist in the tracking of community and participant impact of WAVE Foundation programs
- Complete and maintain Animal Handler training and become a trainer and coach for other handlers
- Communicate and maintain working relationships with educators, students, guests, staff, supervisors, volunteers and other departments, as well as colleagues in related industries
- Facilitate programs comfortably in an environment which may include loud noises, large crowds and various settings
- Maintain an awareness of industry guidelines pertaining to education programs as set forth by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums as well as state based education standards
- Maintain education department supplies for continued use in programming and follow all budget tracking procedures
- Work to solve problems before and if they arise, or seek the correct help to create a solution
- Serve as a direct supervisor for part time team members, volunteers, and interns involved in your program areas
- Work a flexible schedule which will include evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Adhere to WAVE Foundation, Newport Aquarium, and Herschend Family Entertainment core values, policies, procedures, and safety protocols (including the NAQ Team Member Handbook)
- Advocate for and promote all WAVE Foundation programs/events within Newport Aquarium and our surrounding community
- Complete any other tasks and projects as assigned by the Conservation Education Manager or Executive Director
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Strong public speaking skills
- Completed Bachelor’s degree, preferably in an animal science or educational field
- National Association for Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide preferred
- Willingness to take direction and coaching from experienced staff members in order to improve your skills and enhance the guest experience and willingness to share ideas for the betterment of the team
- Read, write, and speak the English language (knowledge of other languages a plus)
- Have a valid driver’s license, clean driving record, proof of full coverage insurance, and be willing to operate a sprinter van and other company vehicles for program travel
Required Experience
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening and background check
- Must be able to lift 50lbs and push a mobile cart that weighs 400lbs
- No history of allergy related to animals or plants which might interfere with ability to work
- Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time, climb stairs, bend and stoop
- Immunocompetence (possible exposure to infections and parasitic disease)
- Position may involve exposure to inclement weather, dust, potentially dangerous or unpredictable animal species, and potential dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs. Occasional use of protective clothing or equipment is required e.g. goggles, mask, gloves, and gowns.