Supervisor, Habitat Interpretation

Overview

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Supervisor, Habitat Interpretation
Department:
Zoological Operations

Reports to:

Assistant Curator
Classification:
Full-Time, Exempt

The Supervisor of Habitat Interpretation is a dynamic leadership role for an experienced interpretive professional passionate about connecting visitors with aquatic wildlife and conservation. This position leads a team of interpretive staff and volunteers who deliver engaging, science-based programming across Mystic Aquarium's diverse exhibits and habitats, including outdoor penguin and seal habitats, touch pools, and more.

This role balances hands-on program delivery with strategic leadership, coaching staff in interpretive excellence while managing daily operations, scheduling, and continuous program improvement.

This position is designed for a mission-driven leader who thrives in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment and is ready to elevate Mystic Aquarium's interpretive programming to inspire conservation action and create memorable experiences for diverse audiences.

• Program Development and Interpretive Leadership
• Design, develop, and refine interpretive programs, scripts, and talking points that bring aquatic science and conservation stories to life.
• Create thematic interpretation that connects tangible resources (animals, exhibits) to intangible meanings, facilitating intellectual and emotional connections for visitors.
• Lead development of new interpretive initiatives, seasonal programs, and special events that align with institutional conservation messaging and educational goals.
• Ensure all interpretive content is scientifically accurate, accessible to diverse audiences, and incorporates current best practices in informal environmental education.
• Systematically evaluate program quality and effectiveness through visitor feedback, observation, and assessment tools; use data to drive continuous improvement.

• Staff Leadership
• Hire, train, and develop interpretive staff and volunteers to deliver high-quality, engaging programs that exceed guest expectations.
• Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and behaviorally specific feedback to strengthen interpretive skills, public speaking abilities, and guest engagement techniques.
• Conduct performance evaluations, set clear expectations, and support professional development goals for team members.
• Create and manage staff schedules that balance operational needs, employee development opportunities, and efficient resource allocation across all interpretive areas.
• Oversee daily shift operations, troubleshoot challenges, and coordinate inter- and intra-departmental communication to ensure seamless program delivery.
• Model exemplary interpretive practices and foster a collaborative, mission-driven team culture that values continuous learning, innovation, and high standards.

• Deliver engaging interpretive programs directly to guests, including presentations, touch pool facilitation, guided tours, and informal habitat conversations.
• Maintain an enthusiastic, welcoming presence that fosters positive guest experiences and reflects Mystic Aquarium's commitment to education and conservation.
• Respond professionally to guest questions, concerns, and feedback; escalate issues appropriately and follow institutional protocols.
• Ensure all interpretive programming supports diverse learning styles, accessibility needs, and cultural backgrounds of visitors.
• Analyze visitor research and engagement data to inform program improvements and strategic planning efforts.

• Ensure all interpretive staff and volunteers follow proper animal handling protocols, touch pool guidelines, and animal welfare standards.
• Monitor visitor interactions with animals in touch pools and interactive exhibits, intervening when necessary to protect animal welfare and guest safety.
• Enforce safety protocols and institutional policies consistently across all habitats and interpretive areas.
• Respond effectively to emergency situations involving guests or animals, following established procedures and communicating clearly via radio.
• Support habitat maintenance, diet preparation, and basic animal care tasks as assigned; maintain accurate records and documentation.

• Education & Experience: Bachelor s degree in Marine Science, Environmental Education, Biology, Natural Resources, or related field, with a minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in public engagement at an aquarium, zoo, nature center, or similar informal education setting. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Interpretive Excellence: Deep understanding of interpretive principles, thematic interpretation, and approaches to informal science education. Proven ability to craft engaging…