School & Teacher Programs Coordinator - Education

Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific celebrates our planet's largest and most diverse body of water, the Pacific Ocean. A non-profit organization, with close to 1,200 volunteers and 400 employees, the Aquarium of the Pacific's mission is to "instill a sense of wonder, respect and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants and ecosystems" through an array of education programs designed for all ages.

It has redefined the modern aquarium by incorporating the arts and technology to engage audiences

School & Teacher Programs Coordinator - Education

Minimum starting pay for this role is $31.50 per hour. Additional consideration will be given, depending on relevant qualifications and experience.

This position primarily coordinates and delivers educational programs for pre-K to 12th-grade school groups and teachers. Specific initiatives include on-site classroom programs for visiting school field trips, online teacher resources, family science nights, homeschool events, and leading grant-funded professional development opportunities. This staff member will also teach school and public programs and support floor interpretation as needed.

The role supports the Education Department's administration through guest coordination, scheduling, budget and metric tracking, ordering and inventory management, and guest communications. While the School and Teacher Programs Coordinator is not responsible for direct supervision of other education staff members, the position requires informal leadership and directed training and coaching of staff related to the implementation of their programs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

* Coordinate the logistical and pedagogical elements of on-site school and teacher programs in five different teaching spaces, special events, and teacher workshops.

* Maintain an on-site five-day work schedule, Tuesday
- Saturday, with varying start times to meet program operational needs.

* Ensure the safety and well-being of program participants and staff through protocols, communication with teachers and chaperones, and creative solutions.

* Work with management to plan strategies to continually evaluate programs.

* Adapt, update, and create new on-site school and teacher program materials and resources as needed to serve the changing needs of the audience.

* Maintain Guest Support Center protocols for school program bookings and website listings.

* Facilitate public and school programs, both on-site, online, and in the community.

* Assist in the onboarding and training of new educator staff members in implementing school programs.

* Support daily department operations, including ordering and inventory, reviewing monthly staff schedule drafts, tracking spending, and ensuring the office is ready for daily operations.

* Work with management and cross departments to report on the progress and support new grant-funded projects.

* Serve as the point-person for the department 1-2 days a week by answering radio calls, phone calls, and ensuring coverage on both the interpretation and volunteer schedules.

* Provide daily visitor support, including on-the-floor interpretation, shows, and station coverage.

* Train and serve as a resource for volunteers and interns.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

* Strong background and training in the field of education and the implementation of education programs for school audiences. Effective use of instructional strategies to engage a variety of ages, group sizes, and abilities.

* Ability to work well with others in a team atmosphere.

* Excellent written communication skills, including phone manners.

* Excellent internal and external customer service.

* Outstanding time management and organizational skills.

* Ability to proactively solve problems and find solutions to complex problems. Making decisions that align with program and department goals.

* Proficiency in basic computer functions and applications for coordination tools such as Word, Excel, and Power Point

* Ability to focus on projects in a shared workspace with frequent interruptions.

* Ability to interact successfully with other zoos, aquariums, and informal education centers regarding related programs.

* Desire to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems

* Willingness to learn ecological, biological, and conservation principles.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

* Minimum of two years of teaching experience in a formal and/or informal setting. Experience leading teacher workshops or coordinating school programs is a plus.

* Demonstrated ability to reflect and improve job performance.

* Experience supporting or leading project logistics.

* Bachelor's degree in biology or related field…