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JOB SUMMARY
Directs planning, budgeting, implementation, and evaluation of of the Guest Engagement programming and Tours of the National Aquarium. This programming should align directly with the Learning and Engagement’s strategic direction and the Aquarium’s conservation plan. The director should ensure engaging experiences are developed for Aquarium guests using the most up-to-date interpretative techniques and that messaging is consistent and leveraged throughout the Aquarium. Work cooperatively with all guest-related divisions to support interpretation/conservation communication. Collaborate closely with the other members of the Learning and Engagement department on delivery of special projects, grants, and initiatives. Works weekends and special events occasionally. May work remote one day/week.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Provides direction for Guest Engagement department and its core interpretive programming areas consistent with National Aquarium’s conservation action plan. Directs the development, testing, implementation, and evaluation of on-site interpretive guest programs.
- Responsible for hiring and developing Tours and Experiences Manager and Guest Engagement (GE) Manager. Indirectly supervise staff of Tours and GE Programs (specialists and aides).
- Develops reports and business cases, as well as manages budget for section.
- Responsible for revenue-based programs. Occasionally assists in grant programs.
- Directs the development of interpretive materials for guest and staff use.
- Supports the development and testing of gallery and exhibit-based activities for guests.
- In charge of keeping permits up to date for restricted artifacts.
- Directs the team that provides training and is a resource all public facing departments, when requested.
- Directs the creation of special event educational activities to coordinate with promotional or event themes in Aquarium, working with marketing staff.
- In cooperation with the Manager of Animal Programs, oversee ambassador animal programs for guests, ensuring good welfare of the animals, best practices in interpretation and enjoyment of the public.
- Coordinate and serve as representative for meetings with other Aquarium departments and external partners. On occasion may develop and deliver oral presentations that contribute to the Aquarium’s voice in the community and industry
- Oversees evaluation of programming. May include in house surveys, attendance numbers, marketing research surveys and other benchmarks.
- Be proficient in GE core programming to provide support when needed.
- Adheres to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures
- Other duties as assigned or required; may work within other departments as needed
QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in science, education or similar required; advanced degree preferred.
- 5+years’ experience in an education or learning-based environment with experience with an informal science education setting required.
- 3+ years’ experience with program development, budget management and supervision of professional staff preferred.
- Certification in interpretive skills preferred.
- Experience with strategic planning preferred.
- Ability to address multiple tasks in different project phases, including strong time management, effective communication both internally and externally, and strong planning skills.
- Ability to speak about engagement programs to the general public, including presentations to colleagues and interactions with the media. Must have strong written and oral communication skills.
- Strong knowledge of educational best practices, strategy, technology, social media, and digital learning formats.
- Highly proficient in MS Office, Excel, PowerPoint and other appropriate programs.
The National Aquarium is committed to diversity and invites individuals who bring a diversity of culture, experience and ideas to apply.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM
Recently named one of Baltimore’s Best Places to Work, the National Aquarium opened in 1981 as a nonprofit aquatic education and conservation organization, the jewel of the city’s Inner Harbor redevelopment. SmartCEO Magazine honored the National Aquarium with the Healthiest Workplace award and the Corporate Culture award in 2016. With a mission to inspire conservation of the world’s aquatic treasures, the Aquarium is consistently ranked one of the nation’s two top aquariums and has hosted over 51 million guests since opening.
Today, the National Aquarium builds on a history of local, regional and global conservation initiatives that provide real solutions for protecting marine life, ecosystems and aquatic communities. Its Animal Rescue team has rescued, rehabilitated and released hundreds of marine mammals and endangered sea turtles throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Its Animal Care and Welfare teams participate in important research efforts to confront pressing ocean conservation issues and advocate for smarter policies at local, state and federal levels. Through education, research, conservation action and advocacy, the National Aquarium is pursuing a vision to change the way humanity cares for our ocean planet.
HOW TO APPLY Interested and engaged applicants should apply through our website http://aqua.org/jobs. Requests for reasonable accommodation can be made by e-mailing HR@aqua.org.
