Education Specialist II

POSITION SUMMARY:

As part of the OdySea Aquarium Animal Training & Education team, this position will participate in all educational activities within the Aquarium and our role in conjunction with the community.   Team member will work cooperatively with educators to meet and enhance core curriculum standards and support manger in developing innovative educational experiences.  Team member will demonstrate elevated, interactive guest experiences that underscore the educational and conservation mission of OdySea Aquarium.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• As a member of the OdySea Aquarium team, the Education Specialist must commit to working hard and being patient, kind, respectful, forgiving, and honest with others.  Friendly communication is always expected, as well as treating guest focus as a priority.
• Responsible for executing, along with Education team members and Education Manager, all educational program activities.
• Monitor school groups, field trips, and special events groups throughout the Aquarium during all educational or promotional tours and events.
• Employ active guest interaction with and education of our guests through ‘Education Station’ carts.
• Maintain active and updated knowledge base of all species within OdySea Aquarium, as well as contents of each Education Station artifact collection.
• Demonstrate a knowledge of special events within OA and the educational and interactive approach to be taken with each group.
• Demonstrate adaptability and flexibility working in different areas of the Aquarium with different species.
• Work harmoniously with all departments within OdySea Aquarium to openly communicate all educational programs and events.
• Assist Manger and/or Director with designing educational materials such as brochures, education cards, field trip and outreach materials, as well as in house educational programming, such as exhibit signage and conservation messaging.
• Assist in technical writing and preparation of lectures for all classes and distance learning programs.
• Represent OdySea Aquarium off property through educational animal appearances at schools, media events, and other public engagements.
• Representation of aquarium through positive guest interactions and experiences daily.
• Work cooperatively with Animal Training Manager and training areas to schedule Animal Ambassador appearances for educational presentations, outreach events, field trips, camps, and special events.
• Help to mentor volunteers/ supplemental Education team members.

Requirements

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Biology, Zoology, Marine Science or related discipline required.
• Minimum 2 years working in an educational capacity in a zoo, aquarium, or related industry.
• Familiar with core curriculum standards and adherence.
• Excellent public speaking, microphone, and guest experience skills.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, or irregular hours.
• Proficient computer skills required.

 PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Some assignments will require the ability to work at elevated heights, stand for long periods of time, and walk.
• Employee must occasionally lift or move, carry, push, or pull up to 20 lbs.  
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, as well as walk.
• The employee is frequently required to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or climb stairs.
• The noise level in the work environment may be loud at times.
• Ability to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• Ability to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb stairs, or crawl.
• Required to frequently talk and hear.
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch, balance and agility of movement which might interfere with ability to work.
• Specific vision requirement for this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Must be able to take directional cues directly or indirectly.
• Ability to work in an environment that may be loud at times.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions, including occasional extreme hot or cold, and wet and/or humid conditions.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Must exemplify core fundamentals of the Employee Promise, which states:

    I am empowered to take ownership of any opportunity to exceed expectations.

    I anticipate guest needs and pay attention to the details.

    I treat all internal and external customers with respect.

    I am on stage! (Smile)

    I have an attitude of gratitude.

    I get it right the first time.

    I display actions that are moral and ethical.

    I always provide alternative solutions.

    I am committed to learning every aspect of our product and services.

    I use the 10/5 rule, 10 feet I acknowledge my guest’s presence with a smile and at 5 feet. I greet them with a courteous word.                 

    I use name recognition at every opportunity. 

    I take personal responsibility for our surroundings.

    I am accountable for my tools and resources.

    I value the contribution of every team member.