Naturalist, Education Specialist – Marine Science Floating Lab

An equal opportunity employer fostering a workforce that embraces and reflects the rich diversity of Los Angeles County

$26.38 Hourly

Most temporary positions do not include benefits or paid time off except as provided by law.

Are you passionate about the great outdoors? Do you thrive on inspiring young minds through hands‑on marine science experiences? Look no further! The Los Angeles County Office of Education is seeking enthusiastic and qualified individuals to join our team as Naturalists, Education Specialist
- Marine Science Floating Lab.

The Marine Science Floating Lab provides students with experiential outdoor learning opportunities in marine science, oceanography, and coastal ecology. Participants engage in hands‑on exploration directly abord a working vessel, collecting scientific samples, examining marine organisms, and studying Southern California's coastal waters.

Under general supervision, delivers hands‑on marine science and oceanography instruction to student groups aboard floating laboratory vessels and at coastal field sites; guides students in conducting marine biological sampling, identifying marine life, and analyzing oceanographic data; and performs related duties as assigned.

• Lead interactive educational programs in marine science, oceanography, and marine biology for participating student groups.
• Instruct and assist students in operating oceanographic sampling gear (e.g., water quality equipment, plankton nets, and sediment samplers).
• Handle, present, and care for live marine organisms for observation and educational purposes.
• Maintain safety protocols and supervise student groups while on board vessel platforms and near coastal water environments.
• Prepare, organize, and inspect instructional equipment and scientific gear before and after educational sessions.

• Work Location:
  
  Onboard Marine Science Floating Lab vessels and assigned coastal job sites.
• Work Schedule:
  
  Part‑time temporary;
  Tuesdays, Thursdays, and select Saturdays through June.
• Shift
  
  Hours:
  
  8:00 a.m.
  
  - noon
• On‑Call Duties:
  
  None required.

• Any combination of education, training, and experience in marine science, oceanography, marine biology, environmental science, outdoor education, or a closely related field that demonstrates the knowledge and abilities necessary to instruct students in marine environments.
• Requires an Associate’s degree and one year of specialized experience in a related field; a Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• Direct experience leading outdoor educational programs or student field trips aboard vessel platforms or coastal field study sites is preferred.

A valid California driver's license and the availability of private transportation or the ability to obtain transportation between job sites is required.

LACOE does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of age, actual or perceived race, actual or perceived gender, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. LACOE complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure equal access to all qualified individuals with a disability. Reasonable accommodations in completing an application, testing, and employment are available to individuals with disabilities.

If you would like to request an accommodation, please call the LACOE Title II Coordinator at  as early as possible.