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 backgrounds into our team and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.
Priority deadline for applications is January 26, 2026. Due to the volume of incoming applications, the role may be closed earlier than January 26, 2026.
Job Summary:
Manage the development, implementation, and delivery of Interpretive Programs (Public Programs, Guide Program, Specialty Programs). Uphold the standard and quality of interpretive messaging in all programs in collaboration with senior Guest Experience management, staff, volunteers, Volunteer Engagement team, and contractors. Oversee daily Interpretive Programs operations and budget; train, coach, and provide ongoing feedback to staff, volunteers, and contractors. Foster an inclusive, emotionally intelligent environment that champions diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), ensuring that all programming is culturally relevant, accessible, and engaging to diverse audiences. In partnership with management and cross-functional teams, cultivate a culture of empathy, respect, and collaboration. Core Activities may vary based on assigned programs. Perform other duties as required.
Core Activities:
- Provide leadership to and management of the interpretive programs staff and volunteers (Guides, Shift Captains, and Mentors); coach and provide ongoing feedback.
- Facilitate and deliver training (onboarding, intensives, new programs, specific skills and roles).
- Provide daily operational management of the Interpretive Programs Team and Guide Volunteers.
- Develop new interpretive programs working cross divisionally to support the Aquarium mission.
- Lead the strategic development of new initiatives.
- Implement the launch of new interpretive programs (tours, theatrical, night events, virtual, public, auditorium, among other guest facing programs).
- Evaluate programs to measure and analyze program effectiveness to help inform the future strategy of interpretive program offerings.
- Write guest experience training materials, including enrichments for the Guide Program Pathway and Interpretive Programs (tours, theatrical, night events, virtual, public, auditorium); keep them updated on Tidepool and MBA Learns.
- Manage the creation and editing of new/existing training materials including but not limited to audio visual, manuals, digital libraries, handouts, and presentations.
- Evaluate and approve program delivery from guest facing staff and volunteers.
- Deliver ongoing interpretive programs (e.g., deliver feeding narrations, auditorium programs, tours, etc.) as required.
- Assist the Operations team with ad hoc floor support on the floor as required.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities (KSAs):
- Bachelor's degree in a natural science, education, or performing arts or equivalent experience
- At least four years' experience in a management or professional leadership role, ideally in a museum, educational, or camp setting
- At least four years' experience delivering educational or related programming in an informal setting
- Demonstrated ability to develop science training materials for non-science professionals
- Experience with training staff on program delivery, as well as offer continued coaching and feedback
- Proficiency in delivering educational programs in a fun, scientifically accurate and engaging manner
- Strong interpersonal skills and familiarity in working with a variety of professionals, interns, and volunteers of various ages
- Flexibility and the ability to be self-directed while performing a number of diverse tasks simultaneously
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Must be able to work weekends, evenings, and holidays
- Ability to work within, and maintain Monterey Bay Aquarium's Core Values
- Demonstrated commitment to Monterey Bay Aquarium's Leadership Competencies
- Preferred Certifications: National Association of Interpretation, ASTC, AZA, or the Getty Leadership Institute
- Experience with adult education
- Experience managing multigenerational group settings
- Track record managing large groups of volunteers
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
Annual Compensation Range:
$75,400 - $93,000 USD annually. Starting rate will vary based on previous experience and relevant skills/knowledge set.
