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Program Assistant, Conservation

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  

We are seeking a full-time, entry-level Program Assistant to join the Department of Conservation and Policy at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. The Department of Conservation and Policy team conducts applied scientific research on the species and habitats of Long Island Sound and supports the development of policy that will improve the health and resiliency of marine and coastal systems. Current projects underway by the department include salt marsh ecology research, marine debris retrieval, and building partnerships to support regional environmental monitoring. This will be a new position within the team that will provide administrative support across the department and assist with various elements of programmatic work within the team.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Provide administrative support to department (current full-time staff of 8)
  • Assist with data entry and quality control
  • Assist with ordering and inventory management of supplies and equipment
  • Assist with writing of reports, grants, and publications
  • Work with staff from other departments on related activities, including Community Science
  • Support Director and other staff on overall program implementation as needed, including field research activities

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Work Experience  

  • Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science, Ecology, Biology or related field preferred
  • Previous experience working outdoors preferred

Knowledge and Skills 

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills required
  • Excellent organization skills required
  • MS office (excel, word, powerpoint, outlook) skills required
  • Must be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions, including on boats and in mud
  • Must be able to work collaboratively, work independently, and multi-task
  • Able to carry 25 pounds over uneven terrain during field research

The ideal candidate will have an interest in coastal and marine ecosystems, be passionate about the environment, and be interested in providing administrative and logistical support to a dynamic and fast-paced team. The typical work schedule will be Monday through Friday from 9am – 5pm, but weekend, early morning, and evening work will be required periodically.

Salary: $23 per hour (typically 35-hr work week), plus benefits.

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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