Senior Educator, Conservation Learning

The Senior Educator is a senior member of the Conservation Learning team, leading the creation of engaging interpretive programming aimed at inspiring ocean-based conservation action among our audiences. They will be responsible for building engaging programs, from conceptualization through implementation, using the Aquarium's exhibits, science and research, and other resources. Responsibilities also include training, mentoring, and coaching staff, interns, and volunteers in interpretive skills, conservation messaging, and successful program delivery. The ideal candidate will model excellent leadership skills and support supervisory functions.

This is a full-time regular position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The schedule will be Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm with the option for a hybrid schedule, working three days on-site and two days remotely. Work must be conducted on-site on Saturdays. Remote days are only available for residents of MA, RI, NH, ME, NY and VT.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Leads the development of interpretive programming and conservation learning content in direct support of the organization's conservation goals, ensuring on-site and virtual content meets any outcomes related to those goals. Uses up-to-date practices in interpretive theory, science communication, and guest engagement approaches to create programming that shares the breadth of Aquarium's expertise, research, and conservation advocacy work.
2. Serves as a subject matter authority in interpretation and science communication. Facilitates, coaches, and trains other departments and cross-functional teams on best practices for communicating complex conservation topics to broader audiences (e.g., visitors, members, donors, trustees, media) in a fun and engaging manner.
3. Directly delivers mission-based programs to the public (both onsite and virtual), working closely with various departments to share all aspects of the Aquarium's work. Increases the public's understanding of conservation topics and connects them to tools, advocacy opportunities, and community involvement.
4. Leads and participates in cross-functional working groups, task forces, and organizational projects. Collaborates with different teams and departments on projects and bodies of work, including Animal Care, Marketing and Communications, ACCOL, and Visitor Experience.
5. Trains, mentors, and coaches educators (staff, volunteers, interns, teens) to ensure the highest standard and quality of mission-based interpretation. Provides educators with guidance and feedback on communication strategies, conservation interpretation.
6. Provides messaging continuity between main building interpretation and the organization's marketing channels, partner channels, and community engagement initiatives. Ensures open lines of communication with educators and provides communication in a timely fashion.
7. Participates and serves as a team resource in the hiring process of Conservation Learning staff.
8. Represents the Aquarium in a leadership role to outside groups and institutions on a local, state, and national level regarding the organization's conservation programming.
9. Performs other position-related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Training and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in marine science, environmental science, education, museum studies, or a related field and/or equivalent experience. A Master's degree or equivalent experience is preferred.
• Minimum of 3-4 years of interpretive experience and/or program development in an Aquarium or museum setting. 2-3 years of supervisory, mentoring, training experience required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of one or more of the following areas required: exhibit interpretation, educational theory, human development, marine biology, and/or ecology.
• Excellent interpretation skills within a diverse audience setting, ability to effectively teach topics related to aquarium exhibits, research, and conservation.
• Must be passionate about being a collaborative member of a team that is developing mission-based programming with a conservation and research focus.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and proven ability to communicate effectively both orally and in written form with Aquarium members, visitors, volunteers, and colleagues of different ages, interests, and backgrounds.
• Strong mentoring and coaching skills; ability to motivate others (e.g., interns, volunteers, colleagues) and lead teams and projects.
• Ability to communicate openly, with a pleasant demeanor, positive attitude, and sense of humor! Must be able to thrive in a changing work environment, be open to new ideas, problem solve in quickly changing situations, and work collaboratively and independently.
• Strong organizational skills with close attention to detail. Display good professional judgment and the ability to work under pressure while exercising tact and diplomacy.
• Willingness to be trained to handle animals for education programs and work a flexible schedule including weekends, occasional evenings, and holidays.
• Should be comfortable communicating with and guiding groups/individuals and special events at a moment's notice and in unusual situations.

For more information and to apply online please visit:

New England Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. Here we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet, and we believe a diverse workforce provides experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our work environment.