Marine Education Specialist & Volunteer Programs Lead

University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

The Marine Education Specialist at the University of Georgia delivers marine science and coastal ecology education to PK-12 students, teachers, undergraduates, and the public through field investigations, laboratory activities, aquarium programs, tours, and vessel-based learning experiences.

The role also coordinates the Marine Education Center and Aquarium's volunteer program, including volunteer recruitment, training, scheduling, and engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in marine science, biology, environmental science or related environmental education field is required.
• Content knowledge in marine science, coastal ecology and natural history.
• 2 years teaching experience with student groups aboard boats and in field settings.
• Volunteer program management experience.
• Effective verbal/written communication with public audiences.
• Prior work with volunteer groups and activities.
• Ability to collaborate with a small team of educators, researchers, interns, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead marine science and coastal ecology labs, field experiences, tours, and introductory discussions for PK-12 students, teachers, undergraduates and the general public.
• Serve as crew and educator aboard university education and research vessels.
• Lead 5-day summer marine science camp sessions.
• Model teaching skills to fellows and interns, and manage group dynamics.
• Assist in maintaining teaching spaces and equipment and in developing education activities.
• Coordinate volunteer recruitment, training, data management and recognition.
• Collaborate with education team to provide learning and service opportunities for volunteers.
• Lead volunteer orientations and regular volunteer meetings; communicate through emails.
• Use UGA platforms to document volunteer work and hours.
• Provide excellent customer service at aquarium admission desk.

Skills

Marine science knowledge

Teaching

Volunteer program management

Public outreach

Verbal/written communication

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in marine science / related field

Job description

The Marine Education Specialist at the University of Georgia delivers marine science and coastal ecology education to PK-12 students, teachers, undergraduates, and the public through field investigations, laboratory activities, aquarium programs, tours, and vessel-based learning experiences.

The role also coordinates the Marine Education Center and Aquarium's volunteer program, including volunteer recruitment, training, scheduling, and engagement.