Educator

Department Information:

The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ (DNCR) vision is to be the leader in using the state's natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational, and economic future of North Carolina. Our mission is to improve quality of life by creating opportunities to experience excellence in the arts, history, libraries, and nature throughout North Carolina. The Department works to stimulate learning, inspire creativity, preserve the state's history, conserve the state's natural heritage, encourage recreation and cultural tourism, and promote economic development. Our goal is to promote equity and inclusion among our employees and our programming to reflect and celebrate our state’s diverse population, culture, and history by expanding engagement with diverse individuals and communities. We encourage you to apply to become a part of our team.

Division Information:

The mission of the North Carolina Aquariums is to inspire appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments. This mission is achieved by attracting, retaining, and developing a world class team of professionals; providing visitors with outstanding exhibits, experiences, and customer service; practicing sustainability, internal customer service and fiscal responsibility; and working to save and restore aquatic species and habitats.

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is located in Manteo, NC and is nine miles from the Atlantic coastline in Nags Head. The 61,000 square-foot facility is sited on 16 acres overlooking the Croatan Sound and houses over 1600 animals in its collection. Over 280,000 guests visit the aquarium each year to see a variety of animals, learn about sea turtle conservation, participate in educational programs, enjoy the beauty of the area, and think about how special North Carolina’s waterways are.

Description of Work:

This is a seasonal position, slated to be filled March through August 2023.

Reporting directly to the Education Curator this fast-paced, high energy seasonal position is responsible for the implementation of a comprehensive set of youth and adult programs and field experiences for a range of audiences. These experiences include field trip programs and week-long summer camps. Position is responsible for ensuring that programs are operated safely and in accordance with NC Aquariums guidelines and procedures. This position will be required to work outdoors and be able to assist in STEM based field trips, kayaking, surf lessons, and fishing programs. This position will be responsible for presenting age-appropriate curriculum specific to school programs; serving as a resource for teachers and community members.  Position works 40 hours per week and must be able to work nights, weekends and holidays.

Job Requirements:

This employee must be self-directed and capable of working independently. A high degree of resourcefulness and problem-solving skills are necessary for the employee to maintain public contact and respond to group requests. The employee must have good judgment, be knowledgeable about existing programs and procedures and be flexible. This position requires excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of natural history, environmental and marine education is also required.  Interpersonal skills, time management, leadership, research, planning and organizing are additional skills needed for this position.

Must meet DNCR Fleet Safety Guidelines and have ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license. 

If selected for hire, prior to first day of work a background check will be completed. 

A skills assessment may be conducted during the interviewing process for this position.
 

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• Experience working with the public.

• Experience in a customer service role.

• Experience presenting programs in an informal setting such as a camp, zoo, aquarium, museum, or other community organization.

• Experience working with school-aged children.

The following skills and/or current certifications are preferred but not required: Lifeguard Certification, kayak/stand-up paddle boarding experience, fishing, water safety skills, comfortable in the ocean, and a working knowledge of Outer Banks flora and fauna, and a degree (or pursuit of a degree) in Biology, Marine Sciences, Natural Resources, or a related field. Candidates must be able to lift at least 50 pounds and be able to spend extended periods of time outdoors.

Education and Experience:

High school or General Educational Development (GED) and one year of experience as related to knowledge, skills, and abilities in area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Apply at https://www.ncaquariums.com/educator