Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

Maui Ocean Center is currently seeking a charismatic and enthusiastic individual to join our Marine Naturalist team!

Marine Naturalists are ambassadors of the Maui Ocean Center. Our ideal candidate is highly motivated, confident, articulate, informative, and most importantly ... passionate about the ocean! Naturalists are expected to provide excellent customer service while carrying out multiple educational opportunities including interpretive presentations, interactive activities, guiding special tours and providing a knowledgeable presence during special programs and events. Marine Naturalists shall exhibit a positive attitude, enjoy working with the public and exemplify professional and ethical behavior at all times while furthering the mission of the organization.

The Maui Ocean Center's mission is to foster wonder, understanding and respect for Hawai'i's marine life.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Primary roles and responsibilities of a Maui Ocean Center Marine Naturalist are as follows:

Assisting with day-to-day activities of the Education Department including carrying out opening and closing duties, greeting guests, hosting orientation for groups, leading private tours, conducting special programs, remaining available and visible to visitors at all times, answering questions and assisting visitors as needed.*

Has an excellent understanding of the animals on display, and various aspects of Hawaiian culture, island geology and other information provided through interpretive materials on site, while continually working to improve presentation style and knowledge.

Ability to speak to individuals and groups alike with enthusiasm, a friendly demeanor and discretion, with the ability to understand appropriate conduct and topics of conversation.

Works well independently without direct supervision.

Works well with others including the public, co-workers, volunteers, interns and vendors.

Provides information and support to ensure total guest satisfaction for all clientele.

Responds to guest complaints and assist in resolving problems including but not limited to visitor concerns or park wide service issues. Escalates issues up the chain of command if unable to handle at Naturalist level.

In addition to performance of the major duties and responsibilities, marine naturalists may be required to perform a combination of the following supportive functions:

Supports the Head Naturalist and Director of Education (DOE) in carrying out the functions and goals of the department, especially in the absence of the DOE, including oversight of interns and park volunteers and reporting to the MOD (manager on duty) should assistance be needed.

Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

A degree in marine biology, environmental science or related field or a minimum of two (2) years previous experience in the areas of marine science, eco-tourism, education, environmental science or related fields.

Exceptional guest service skills, including public speaking and written communication skills.

General knowledge of both Hawai`i marine life and Hawaiian culture is advantageous, but extensive knowledge is not mandatory.

Must provide adequate availability for work opportunities including day shifts, on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays & overnight functions.

Must be comfortable with the use of electronic devices in the work place including but not limited to computers, radios, DVD players, CD players, portable amplification devices AV receivers, projectors, etc.

Applicant must be 18 years of age or older

Applicant must be a US citizen or have permanent resident alien status

Ability to speak, read, write and comprehend the English language

Prefer on island applicants at this time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Standing and walking for several hours at a time

Communicating with guests and colleagues throughout the day

Occasionally required to perform physical activities such as set up and break down of interactive learning stations, carrying various teaching materials, and bending/crouching to clean and maintain exhibits

BENEFITS

Opportunity for advancement within the Education Department - priority for Full-Time status pending probationary period and availability

Unlimited daily aquarium access during normal business hours (employee & immediate family & spouse)

Paid time off - accumulated based on hours worked

Health Insurance including Medical, Vision & Dental (after 4 weeks) Full-Time benefit only*

Group Life Insurance & 401k retirement plan Full-Time benefit only*

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Schedule:

Day shift Holidays Morning shift On call Rotating shift Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person