Special Programs Educator; Program Educator II

Position: Special Programs Educator (Program Educator II)
Department:

VIRGINIA AQUARIUM Compensation Grade:

G21

Compensation Range & Starting Salary:

Pay Range: $47,153.60 - $73,465.60

Starting Salary: minimum of the pay range

Job Exempt (If No, Position is eligible for overtime):

No

Scheduled Weekly

Hours:

40

About Us:

Recognized as one of America’s Best-In-State Employers for 2024, the City of Virginia Beach is proud to offer a diverse and dynamic work environment. Our workforce plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional government services to both our citizens and fellow City employees. Apply now to join an organization where you truly make a difference.

Job Duties and

Preferred Qualifications:

Special Programs Educator (Program Educator II)
The Virginia Aquarium seeks a collaborative, detail-oriented Special Programs Educator (Program Educator II) to coordinate, implement, and evaluate engaging, revenue-generating programs. This role focuses on delivering high-quality events, fostering youth engagement, and supporting inclusive programming that connects diverse audiences to marine conservation.

The Special Programs Educator focuses on the planning, execution, and evaluation of mission-aligned programs and events from concept through delivery. This includes coordinating signature offerings such as themed seasonal events, overnight experiences, and adult-focused evenings. The role also supports inclusive initiatives like Sensory Friendly Mornings, enhances youth and teen engagement, and works collaboratively across sections to elevate conservation awareness and guest  addition, the educator trains and supervises special programs staff and volunteers, mentors interns and program participants, and manages key administrative tasks – including budgeting and invoicing – to ensure successful and sustainable program delivery.

Responsibilities:

Cultivate a collaborative team environment where all members are committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences through innovative programs and events

Coordinate, implement, facilitate, and evaluate revenue-generating events from planning through execution to expand audiences, generate revenue and support membership growth

Collaborate with internal partners to ensure all pre-event requirements are completed and aligned with organizational standards

Lead and support signature programs, including adult-focused events, overnight experiences, and seasonal themed programming

Train and supervise staff and volunteers to deliver engaging, high-quality guest experiences

Manage administrative tasks such as processing invoices and tracking program budgets

Plan and lead monthly Sensory Friendly Mornings to ensure inclusive and accessible programming

Design, implement, and oversee youth and teen programs, including Watershed Warriors Supervise and collaborate with interns and fellows to support program success

Assist with the planning and facilitating a youth ocean conservation summit and fostering youth and teen engagement initiatives

Collaborate with the Guest Engagement team to develop and deliver Conservation Awareness Day programming included with general admission

Contribute to cross-functional collaboration to enhance educational impact and audience engagement

The ideal candidate for this position will possess:

Proven leadership experience in coordinating and supporting teams in the planning and execution of programs, events, projects, or initiatives.

Experience in managing projects, programs, or events from conception to implementation, with a focus on audience engagement, growth and aligning with organizational goals.

Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, responsibilities, deadlines, logistics, and stakeholder relationships simultaneously, while maintaining attention to detail and ensuring follow-through.

A demonstrated ability to create and facilitate positive experiences for guests, participants, students, customers, community members, and others, with the flexibility to adapt plans as necessary.

Experience collaborating with others to accomplish shared goals, demonstrating effective communication and reliable follow-through.

Excellent communication skills, including the ability to convey information…