Museum Educator 1 - 141504

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego's Birch Aquarium at Scripps invites applications for an Education program role. You will assist in implementing year-round science education programming and ensure accuracy of marine science content aligned with Scripps Institution of Oceanography's mission.

You will engage diverse audiences through in-person and virtual programs, including school groups, camps, and community events, mentoring volunteers and student staff while upholding University policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in marine science, environmental science, or related natural science, or education with science specialization.
• Knowledge of marine, Earth and atmospheric science concepts and inquiry-based teaching.
• Experience delivering educational programs and working with diverse teams.
• Analytical and organizational skills for program needs assessments and goals.
• Strong reading, verbal, and written communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to follow directions and work with supervision to meet goals.
• Commitment to fairness, respect, and inclusion.
• Proficiency with business software (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint).

Responsibilities

• Assist in the implementation and presentation of year-round science education programming.
• Provide high-quality content accurate to Scripps Institution of Oceanography activities and policies.
• Mentor volunteers and student employees and support outreach programs.

Skills

Marine science degree

Education with science specialization

Teaching experience

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Follow directions

Inclusion and equity

Microsoft Office skills

Education

BA/BS in marine or environmental science or related field

Education with science specialization or equivalent teaching experience

Tools

Word

Excel

Access

PowerPoint

Job description

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 10/01/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants: Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

Work Schedule: Sunday through Thursday OR Tuesday through Saturday. May require flexibility.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a non‑profit exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. The aquarium showcases over 60 habitats of fish and invertebrates. The interactive museum features research discoveries by Scripps scientists and engages visitors of all ages.

Our goal is to promote conservation efforts that protect our ocean planet. We educate visitors on how our world works and inspire them to become stewards of the planet. Our conservation efforts are based on scientific research, and we aim to connect people with nature and with a shared sense of responsibility to care for our planet Earth.

Website: aquarium.ucsd.edu

Location: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision of an Education Program Coordinator and work direction of Program Leads, the position is responsible for assisting in the implementation and presentation of year‑round science education programming. Research and provide the highest‑level of science content and accuracy for Education programs, interpretation, and activities appropriate for and in alignment with the Aquarium's role as the public exploration center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO), UC San Diego. Program audiences include, but are not limited to, multi‑generational groups, families, infants and toddlers, adults, pre‑K to 12 and college students, and teachers. Programming includes but is not limited to in‑person and virtual, onsite public engagement, school group programs, youth programs such as camps and after school programs, public programs including special events, outdoor programming, and outreach. Instructional responsibilities include having a broad‑based knowledge of marine science content; using appropriate materials, teaching strategies and curriculum to implement programs, including recommending revisions as needed; adhering to aquarium and university policies and procedures; and providing high quality guest service. Assist in mentoring program volunteers and student employees.

QUALIFICATIONS

• BA or BS in marine science, environmental science, or related natural sciences or in education with science specialization, or combination of related educational background and teaching in the subject matter, or equivalent experience
• Knowledge of educational program content and objectives in appropriate subject area. Demonstrated understanding of and ability to teach and/or interpret basic marine, Earth and atmospheric science concepts, including the nature and practices of science. Knowledge and familiarity with best practices in teaching inquiry‑based science.
• Educational programs delivery and management skills including experience working collaboratively with a team of diverse individuals. Ability to work effectively across the organization, internally and externally.
• Analytical skills to work on program or targeted audience needs assessments. Use of critical‑thinking, problem‑solving, creativity, time management and organizational skills to meet Departmental and Organizational goals in a team environment.
• Strong reading, verbal, written communications and presentation skills.
• Ability to follow directions and adhere to established guidelines and procedures. Ability to take initiative and work with appropriate supervision to reliably meet goals and objectives.
• Demonstrated competency with and commitment to fostering fairness, respect, and inclusion in alignment with the Principles of Community.
• Computer skills with business software systems in the completion of work assignments (for example, Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint).

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Schedule is Sunday through Thursday or Tuesday through Saturday, with a shift to Monday through Friday for Summer Camp programming, and may require schedule flexibility to accommodate morning and/or evening programs, holidays and/or special events.
• Some programs may involve outdoor, water‑based activities and may require lifting tanks and equipment plus handling live organisms.
• Ability to obtain lifeguard certification within 6 months of hire is required to implement ocean water‑based activities.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
• Will be required to hold valid driver's license and have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures.

Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18); completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) training will be required. Must meet CANRA compliance requirement per California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act ("CANRA," Penal Code sections 11164-11174.4)

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: Unclassified - No data available (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: Unclassified - No data available

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).