Marine Science Educator

Location: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California

This is a full-time position requiring five consecutive days per week, including consistent weekend work. The schedule is generally eight hours per day, Monday through Friday, but varies depending on daily needs. Evening, holiday, and some local travel may be required.

Pay

$28.00 - $31.49 per hour. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is required and eligible for a 5% bilingual differential, paid in addition to the regular base rate for all hours worked.

Benefits

• Holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Employee Assistance Program

About the role

The Marine Science Educator plays a key role in delivering school tours and youth programs, focusing on either high school or middle school programs. This position supports program growth and department goals by providing high-quality, lasting education experiences.

Responsibilities

• Program Implementation (75%):
  • Deliver marine science content to audiences from 4th grade to adult, using best practices to ensure a safe and positive learning environment.
  • Cross-train and support all programs for school and youth audiences, including docent coverage and guided tours.
  • Build and maintain relationships with teams across the Center, stakeholders, teachers, and partner organizations.
  • Deliver programs in Spanish, including translation and interpretation as needed.
  • Organize logistical aspects such as scheduling, supplies, learning spaces, participant paperwork, and data tracking.
  • Facilitate check-in and check-out procedures, address inquiries, and provide timely responses during programs.
  • Follow safety protocols and emergency procedures; communicate incidents or issues effectively with management.
• Program Development (20%):
  • Support program development, including new content, media, technology, and program creation.
  • Develop bilingual resources and translations for Spanish-speaking audiences.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of marine mammal science, ocean conservation, and climate change through training and professional development.
• Other Duties (5%):
  • Represent and promote the Center through donor cultivation and partnerships.
  • Perform special projects, research, and other assigned duties.

Requirements

• Passion for marine and environmental conservation and alignment with The Marine Mammal Center’s mission.
• Knowledge of marine science and ocean literacy principles.
• Ability to provide exceptional customer service to diverse audiences, including visitors and volunteers.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and adapt to changing priorities.
• Collaborative team player with strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Proficiency or ability to learn Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Word), videoconference tools (Slack, Teams, Zoom), and program registration software (e.g., Eventbrite).
• Experience with Canva or other graphic design platforms is highly desirable.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Self-awareness and respect in engaging with diverse groups.
• Willingness to support and participate in the Center’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
• Ability to understand, speak, read, and write in Spanish (required).
• Ability to obtain clearance via livescan fingerprinting for the U.S. Department of Justice to work directly with students.
• Ability to obtain a TB test and any other required medical examinations or vaccinations.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record (must be 21+ years old).

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Operates in professional office, hospital, and outdoor environments with access via outdoor pathways.
• Ability to stand or walk for up to 3 hours without a break.
• Frequent walking covering up to 5 miles during a shift.
• Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods.
• Ability to climb stairs and move around the facility.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to drive or operate a vehicle.
• Routine outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Repetitive motion tasks using standard office equipment.
• Ability to work at a desk for extended periods using a computer.
• Works in an open cubicle environment with distractions.
• Limited exposure to allergens and zoonotic diseases.
• Exposure to strong smells associated with animal care and carcasses.