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Vessel Educator & Crew Member

Norwalk, Connecticut

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND 

The mission of The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. For more than 35 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium historically hosts nearly 500,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals. Altogether, the Aquarium is home to over 8,000 animals and 285 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce nearly 54,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its 60 full-time staff, and part-time and seasonal staff, in addition to volunteers who contribute over 19,000 hours annually.  

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Maritime Aquarium’s (TMA) vessels serve as floating classrooms, introducing passengers to the marine life and natural beauty of Long Island Sound. TMA’s fleet consists of two inspected passenger vessels — 64-foot hybrid-electric catamaran (R/V Spirit of the Sound) and a 46-foot Chesapeake Deadrise — and a 14-foot rigid hull inflatable boat. Our passenger boats host education and evening cruises throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. The Vessel Educator & Crewmember will be responsible for teaching school, group and public programming onboard including Marine Life Study Cruises. They will also serve as a deckhand, responsible for the safe docking and deployment of gear and passenger personal safety. This position is seasonal, with possibility of option to extend.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent; some college preferred
  • Positive attitude and enthusiasm
  • Excellent interpersonal and public speaking skills, and an interest in environmental education
  • Able to work weekends and some evenings, as well as in an outdoor setting in various weather conditions

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Serve as an educator and naturalist for groups of up to 40 passengers on public and charter cruises
  • Handle and haul in lines aboard the Aquarium’s vessels
  • Ability to handle gear and move about the boat
  • Must be able to lift/carry in excess of 60 pounds of gear and other equipment and work in a variety of weather conditions
  • Maintain a safe environment at all times
  • Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations
  • Participate in drug screening program per USCG regulations and safety trainings

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Prior boating experience
  • Knowledge of local marine flora, fauna, and maritime history in Long Island Sound
  • Teaching experience preferred
  • Spanish language skills a plus

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The Maritime Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.

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