Career Pathways and Apprenticeships Specialist

The Career Pathways Specialist is a new position within the Talent & Culture division of New England Aquarium, reporting to the Associate Director of Volunteer Programs & Internships. This role will work to develop and implement 2 primary initiatives: The Seek2Sea Apprenticeship Program and NEAq's internal Workforce Development programs. The Seek2Sea Apprenticeship Program is funded by a grant through IMLS focused on increasing awareness of and access to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers for Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) communities in the Greater Boston geographical area.

In year 1, the Specialist will assist in coordinating regular meetings among community partners to gather insight on how Seek2Sea can elevate awareness of and access to marine science careers for BIPOC communities. Additionally, the Specialist will collaborate with NEAq staff to coordinate and implement training for Mentors and Apprentices.

In years 2 & 3, the Specialist will move to support the Apprentices by coordinating training, facilitating professional development and networking sessions, and providing career services. Additionally, the Specialist will work to keep all grant-related projects on track throughout the duration of funding.

The Specialist will also collaborate to design and deliver service initiatives that allow our employees and community collaborators to build skills and experiences that increase their connection to our mission, build their sense of belonging in the NEAq community, and train relevant skills related to conservation. Examples of this work could include team-based field service projects in partnership with area environmental impact organizations, shadowing opportunities, or continuing education.

SCHEDULE

This is a full-time regular position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The schedule will be Tues-Sat, 40 hours. Remote work is available 2 days/wk. The three on-campus days include Wednesday and Saturday, and either Tuesday or Thursday. Availability for some evening and weekend work for community meetings and programs is required. This is a 3-year, grant-funded position with the opportunity for extension per program development.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Develop timelines & track project-related work: Create clear schedules, focused benchmarks, and tracking mechanisms for demonstrable results. Communicate clearly with collaborators regarding program logistics such as program plans, agendas, meeting notes, and other vital information to ensure clarity among participants, partners, and the leadership team.
• Administer and allocate budget including taking steps to prepare financial paperwork, and ensure timely and accurate payments.
• Interact with partner organizations and clients from the community in ways that create a welcoming and inclusive tone and a mutually beneficial relationship that focuses on visibility and collaboration.
• Coordinate grant-related professional development logistics, and lesson plans, and when appropriate facilitate interactive workshops and special events supporting Apprentice and Mentor learning and development.
• Serve as a resource for information and assistance to apprentices and partner organizations.
• Support initiatives and provide periodic coverage for Volunteer Programs and Internships and the broader Talent and culture team.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Training and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience and 2-3 years of demonstrated professional experience in career services, civic engagement, human resources or community advocacy.
• Experience with project planning and management, ensuring timely delivery and effective collaboration with internal and external partners.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Interest in and commitment to the mission of New England Aquarium.
• In support of grant objectives, must be living in or around the Boston area with knowledge of communities and resources.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proven ability to communicate clearly, and calmly, and demonstrate emotional intelligence in a variety of situations including dialog and written exchanges.
• Proven collaboration skills validated through prior experience successfully working with collaborators. Able to keep the team organized and successful in delivering on project plans.
• Capacity to develop positive, trusting relationships with diverse individuals from varied backgrounds. Flexibility and adaptability, ability to shift styles to fit the needs of a wide range of cultures, people, and organizations. Passion and skills for networking, developing relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, and building strong ties in the community.
• Experience in the design and delivery of adult education is strongly preferred.

Note: Please attach a cover letter to your online application highlighting your project management experience and any community engagement/advocacy and/or adult education experience.

New England Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. Here we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet, and we believe a diverse workforce provides experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our work environment. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities in fulfilling the key responsibilities of the role.