Aquarium Programs Associate

About the Role  

Heal the Bay is looking for a part-time Aquarium Associate, Programs with an interest in all aspects that an aquarium has to offer, including marine science working with aquatic animals; environmental education supporting our education team with field trip and camp programs; and outreach. But will primarily be focused on working with our Public Programs team in the execution of public hours, retail sales, gallery interpretation, and special events. In this position, you will gain valuable marine biology, teaching, public speaking, customer service, retail sales, and event coordination skills while building your resume and obtaining references.

This is an excellent opportunity to work in a dynamic and unique work environment on the Santa Monica Pier, in the Aquarium, and on the beach. This is an entry level position, and you will be trained to work directly with the aquarium visitors, students, community members, and marine animals. You will gain Aquarium and nonprofit experience and be able to work for a reputable nonprofit that has been established for over 35 years. Heal the Bay Aquarium is home to hundreds of organisms, native to the Santa Monica Bay. As Heal the Bay’s marine education facility, the aquarium strives to teach visitors about the importance of environmental stewardship and marine conservation.

Expectations & Responsibilities  

Associates will be assigned regularly scheduled shifts across the various programs, which may include support of Public Programs, Education, and Animal Care teams. Tasks will include:  

Running the cash register at the admissions desk, retail desk, or retail kiosk.

Interpretation and education at touch tank exhibits and other presentations such as feeding demonstrations.

SuppHeal the Bay is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and we strongly encourage applications from individuals that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles County.

Heal the Bay complies with AB 1008, the Fair Chance Act, during the hiring process. Once a conditional job offer has been made the candidate will be asked to complete a Live Scan criminal background check. A thorough assessment of conviction history will be considered including: the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job the candidate is seeking.

Heal the Bay requires all staff to obtain and maintain up-to-date COVID-19 vaccinations, when available. Heal the Bay believes this is an important measure to protect the health and safety of employees, volunteers, family members and those who visit the workplace from COVID-19 infection. Staff must show proof of vaccination (vaccination card or website).ort the operations of birthday parties and other special events.

Teaching hands-on, science field trip curriculum  

Supporting aquarium science camp, afterschool enrichment, and other education programs  

Operate the mobile touch tanks which includes animal handling, animal transport, basic aquarium life support knowledge, and offsite animal interpretation.  

Create a welcoming environment that supports Heal the Bay’s mission of fostering inclusivity, dignity, and respect.

Stellar customer service skills with the ability to create a positive and memorable experience for all.

Support set-up and take-down of all program materials including checking for and reporting hazards.

Support maintenance of supplies and retail including packing, cleaning, inventory 

Work collaboratively and contribute positively to the aquarium team including supporting volunteers and interns. 

Keep aquarium exhibit space and classroom clean and organized and creates a positive visitor experience for all.  

Effectively follow all protocols and standard operating procedures and contribute to the development and growth of the programs.

Assist with other events and needs as assigned.  

Preferred Experience & Skills  

Excellent communication, customer service, and public speaking skills 

Conversational level knowledge of at least two languages is strongly preferred, with a preference for Spanish, Mandarin, or Tagalog  

Ability to respectfully communicate and respect visitors of all ages, ethnicities, exceptionalities, gender identities, religions, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Strong organizational skills and detail-oriented, with the ability to be flexible, communicate well, and work collaboratively. 

Experience with outdoor or environmental education, or student-centered teaching strategies a plus 

Experience working with children and the ability to maintain an Adult and Infant CPR/First Aid/AED certification Must be at least 18 years of age.

Heal the Bay is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and we strongly encourage applications from individuals that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles County.

Heal the Bay complies with AB 1008, the Fair Chance Act, during the hiring process. Once a conditional job offer has been made the candidate will be asked to complete a Live Scan criminal background check. A thorough assessment of conviction history will be considered including: the nature and gravity of the criminal history, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the nature of the job the candidate is seeking.

Heal the Bay requires all staff to obtain and maintain up-to-date COVID-19 vaccinations, when available. Heal the Bay believes this is an important measure to protect the health and safety of employees, volunteers, family members, and those who visit the workplace from COVID-19 infection. Staff must show proof of vaccination (vaccination card or website).