At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that celebrates and values diversity. We firmly believe that having a team of diverse backgrounds and voices, working together, increases our capacity to serve our visitors and fulfill our mission. We welcome people from all walks of life into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A SEASONAL POSITION WITH START DATES TAKING PLACE ON 4/6/2026, 5/4/2026, 5/9/2026, 5/26/2026, 6/8/2026. This position is set to end on 9/20/2026.
Applicants must have at least part-time availability through the end of May and full-time availability beginning in June. Candidates who cannot start full-time immediately must be able to transition to full-time in June.
Job Summary:
Under direct supervision, deliver visitor programming at a variety of venues throughout the Aquarium; create powerful and emotional connections for guests through scripted and theatrical presentations and narrations/interpretations; engage with guests throughout the aquarium by offering continuous marine science interpretation; works as part of the Guest Experience team delivering public programs, tours and educational activities, interpreting at exhibit galleries, as well as offering continuous operational support; perform other duties as required.
Core Activities:
- Deliver scheduled programs to a wide variety of MBA visitors including but not limited to Auditorium (holding up to 275 guests) and Theatrical presentations, live guest Tours, and Feeding Narrations. Delivery of programs generally include:
- Scripted and theatrical presentations, answering questions from guests
- Live narrations and interpretations of aquarium exhibits and activities
- Web, social, and other media live and recorded programs
- Facilitate activities and logistics for special programs such as Sleepover and various night events
- Maintain ongoing knowledge of exhibits and programs, in addition to knowledge about the Monterey area
- Provide continuous marine science interpretation throughout the Aquarium, actively engaging with guests
- Assist with minor husbandry duties such as animal food preparation for feeding tours
- Assist with delivery of prepared trainings and enrichments (interactive content training/lessons) to staff and volunteers, as assigned
- Provide daily Operations support as needed (e.g., ticket processing, queue management, cashier, etc.)
Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):
- BA degree in marine biology, natural science, education, theater or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
- Informal science education experience, public speaking, storytelling, theatrical training/experience or NAI interpretive certification preferred
- Strong understanding of marine science content and conservation principles
- At least two years' experience delivering educational, theatrical, or related programming in an informal setting
- Ability to deliver marine science training materials for non-science professionals
- Ability to maintain MBA and AZA standards
- Demonstrated ability to deliver educational programs in a fun, scientifically accurate and engaging manner
- Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work with a variety of types of professionals, interns, and volunteers of various ages
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Must be able to work weekends, evenings, and holidays
- Ability to work within, and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium's Core Values
Physical Requirements to Perform Essential Job Functions:
- Typical office equipment
- Constant sitting, standing, walking, bending
- Occasional unassisted lifting up to 50 lbs
- Typical office environment, main aquarium, and exhibits, occasional offsite events
Hourly starting rate: $23.00
