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Aquarium Floor Guide (PT)

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.  

About the role 

The Maritime Aquarium’s Education Department is seeking talented individuals to serve as educational guides for our Aquarium guests. Guides are ambassadors for the Aquarium, providing knowledge and engagement that enhance the guest experience. Ideal candidates should have a passion for the environment, animals and enjoy working with people of all ages and abilities.  

Ideal candidates will help support the Maritime Aquarium’s values: 

  • Act with integrity and strive for excellence in all we do. 
  • Prioritize wellness and safety, both physical and emotional, for our animals, people, and community. 
  • Work in partnership, internally and externally, with inclusion, respect, and enthusiasm. 
  • Deliver innovative and sustainable solutions by pursuing new ideas, adapting, and improving. 
Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to)
  • Work with diverse audiences in a variety of settings at the Aquarium. 
  • Proactively greet guests and engage them in conversation. 
  • A variety of programs and roving interpretation that may include: 
  • Presenting animal training and feeding demonstration talks 
  • Leading Aquarium tours and public programs 
  • Engaging with guests at Aquarium touch pool interactive stations: Jellies, Sturgeon, Intertidal, Sharks and Rays  
  • Presenting live animal encounters 
  • Facilitating mission celebration events (Earth Day, World Ocean Day, etc) 
  • Facilitating play in the Sea & Discover Zone (early childhood space) 
  • Overseeing craft or other Aquarium interactive carts 
  • Leading birthday parties 
  • Participate in overnight program activities (tours, crafts, and more) 
  • Providing hands-on guest engagement activities during special events 
Qualifications and Skills 
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age or older. 
  • High School Diploma or GED (General Education Degree) required. 
  • Interpretive training and experience preferred but not required. 
  • Comfortable working with a diverse population. 
  • Comfortable and confident with public speaking and utilization of microphones; ability to communicate effectively in noisy, crowded situations. 
  • Must possess an outgoing personality and enthusiastic, flexible, attitude; willingness to learn. 
  • Ability to multitask and exhibit good judgment. 
  • Possess the ability to function independently or with a supervisor to control guest challenges and expectations. 
  • Must have a strong desire to provide exceptional guest experiences and desire to share knowledge with guests of all ages and backgrounds. 
Position Requirements 
  • Will sometimes work extended hours including weekends, holidays, early mornings, and some night programs. 
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. 
  • Position works mainly indoors with seasonal outdoor opportunities. 
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time and stay active in movement of large objects around aquarium. 
  • This position requires at least 3 full days each week, with 1 being a weekend.  

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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