Marine Educator and Volunteer Coordinator

University of Georgia

Savannah (GA)

Hybrid

USD 40,000 - 61,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

University of Georgia is seeking a Marine Educator and Volunteer Coordinator to deliver marine science and coastal ecology education to PK-12 students, teachers, and public audiences. The role includes field, laboratory, aquarium programs, tours, and vessel-based learning, with a focus on safety and engaging outdoor education.

The position involves leading a small team of educators and volunteers, coordinating volunteer activities, and collaborating across Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent.
Content knowledge in marine science, biology, coastal ecology or related environmental education.
2 years teaching experience with student groups aboard boats and in field settings.
Volunteer program management experience.
Effective verbal and written communication with non-scientists.

Responsibilities

Teach marine science and coastal ecology to PK-12 students, teachers and the public through field, lab, aquarium programs and vessel-based learning.
Lead and manage university education programs aboard research vessels and during camps.
Coordinate and oversee volunteer program including recruitment, training, data management and events.
Provide excellent customer service at aquarium admission desk and participate in outreach events.
Support education team in developing activities and materials and ensure participant safety.

Skills

Teaching

Volunteer management

Public outreach

Team collaboration

First Aid / CPR

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Job description

Marine Educator and Volunteer Coordinator

Posting Details

Posting Number S15767P Working Title Marine Educator and Volunteer Coordinator Department PSO-Marine Extension Service

About the University of Georgia Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant provides research, education, training and science-based outreach to assist Georgia in solving problems and realizing opportunities for its coastal and marine environments. By advancing research, education and training, and outreach, Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant promote the economic, cultural and environmental health of Georgia’s coast and prepare citizens to become good stewards of coastal ecosystems and watershed resources.

Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant is a unit of Public Service and Outreach at the University of Georgia. The Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island near Savannah GA serves as the education arm of the unit. The Center provides hands‑on, feet‑in marine science and coastal ecology education programs year round. Audience includes PK-12 students and teachers, summer campers, undergraduates, and the public. Programs are delivered in field, laboratory, boat-based, and discussion formats.

Employment and Benefits

Posting Type: External Retirement Plan TRS or ORP Employment Type Employee Benefits Eligibility Benefits Eligible Full/Part time Full Time Work Schedule Additional Schedule Information The regular work schedule for this position is Tuesday – Saturday, 8-4:30, with occasional Monday, Saturday, and evening hours.

Advertised Salary $40,409 - $60,613

Posting Date 09/17/2026 Open until filled Yes Closing Date Proposed Starting Date 11/02/2026 Special Instructions to Applicants Location of Vacancy Savannah Area

EEO Policy Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

USG Core Values Statement The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Position Information Classification

Title Community Relations Pro I FLSA Exempt FTE 1.00 Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications

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

Position Summary

The Marine Education Specialist is responsible for delivering marine science and coastal ecology education programs for PK-12 students, teachers, and public audiences through field investigations, laboratory activities, aquarium programs, tours, and vessel-based learning experiences. The position ensures participant safety while facilitating engaging educational programs in classroom, field, and marine environments.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Skill in teaching a wide range of subjects to youth 4-18 years old
Knowledge of marine science, coastal ecology, and natural history of Georgia’s coast
Broad knowledge of outdoor and environmental education
Ability to work in an outdoor setting
Ability to manage adult volunteers
Ability to lead multi-age groups
Ability to work with reptiles, marine fish and invertebrates
Ability to work independently and in a team setting
Multi-age First Aid and CPR Certification

Physical Demands

Working and teaching in all weather conditions (heat, humidity, cold, rain, wind, insects) of the Georgia coast
Working and teaching in the coastal habitats including saltmarsh, sandy beach, maritime forest and on research vessels
Walking throughout the day and in field conditions
Moving and setting up teaching supplies and gear
Sitting for some time while working at a computer
Standing for long periods of time
Driving as needed to perform job tasks
Lifting 50 lbs

Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes

Is this a Position of Trust? Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No

Does this position require a P-Card? No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? Yes

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) No

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties / Responsibilities

Teaching

Lead and instruct 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 and instruct 5-day summer marine science camp sessions
Model positive teaching skills education fellows and interns, to include group management of various youth audiences
Assist education team in the maintenance of teaching spaces and equipment
Assist in the development of education activities and material.
Ensure the safety of student/participant groups while on university led programs and boat trips.

Percentage of time 60

Volunteer Program Coordination

Develop, manage, and coordinate volunteer program including recruitment, training, data management, organization and planning of volunteer socials and recognition.
Collaborate with education team and other Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant professionals to provide learning and service opportunities for volunteers
Lead volunteer orientations, establish and maintain good volunteer relationships, and plan appreciation activities and events
Lead volunteer orientations, administrative onboarding and regular volunteer meetings
Communicate with volunteers through monthly emails, individual emails, and reminders.
Use UGA platforms to document volunteer work and hours

Percentage of time 30

Additional Duties

Provide excellent customer service while attending the aquarium admission desk.
Represent Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant at Special events, public festivals, school outreach events with other organizations in the field of marine science/ environmental education.
Assist education faculty, professional staff, and aquarium curators as needed

Percentage of time 10

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact Name Lisa Kovalanchik

Recruitment Contact Email lisao@uga.edu

Recruitment Contact Phone

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).