Senior Educator (Special Education) at Maritime Aquarium Norwalk
Job Title: Senior Educator
Job Status: Full-time
Location: Norwalk, CT
Description
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Inc. (TMA or the Aquarium) seeks a full time Senior Educator (Special Education).
ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND
The mission of the Aquarium is to inspire people of all ages to appreciate the Long Island Sound, its ecosystem and the global environment through living exhibits, marine science and environmental education. For almost 34 years, the Aquarium has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Norwalk and the region. The second largest family attraction in Connecticut, and 50 miles from New York City, the Aquarium hosts nearly 500,000 guests annually. Its primary exhibits take guests on a voyage from the shallow salt marshes and estuaries to the depths of the Long Island Sound and the ocean beyond, culminating with habitats for sharks and harbor seals. Altogether, the Aquarium is home to more than 7,000 animals and 300 species in 75 exhibits. A new 4D Theater offers a unique sensory film experience for guests. Its education programs introduce approximately 80,000 students, campers and scouts to marine and STEM education. The Aquarium is recognized as a top aquarium in the nation, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is an active participant in the local and regional community. The strength of the Aquarium is its 60 full-time staff, and part-time and seasonal staff, in addition to nearly 300 volunteers, which contribute 28,000 hours annually. While the pandemic challenged the Aquarium in profound ways, the team’s resilience and creativity led to new ways to connect with the community, and renewed optimism for the future.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Maritime Aquarium seeks a talented, charismatic Senior Educator (Special Education) to provide outstanding programs and activities for a wide variety of audiences. These programs will be held in Aquarium classrooms and at animal exhibits, at schools and coastal sites, aboard the Aquarium’s research vessel, and at other places.
The Senior Educator (Special Education) has an active role in developing new programs and writing lesson plans, as well as training part-time staff. The Senior Educator (Special Education) has particular responsibility for developing and leading programs for audiences that have special needs, developmental issues and/or alternative learning styles. However, responsibilities will include programs for all audiences. The weekly schedule will include one regular weekend day.
Successful candidates will have an undergraduate or Master’s degree in a relevant field, plus substantial experience in special education. Excellent presentation and other communication skills are essential. Desired qualifications include previous experience as an educator in an aquarium, zoo, museum of other informal learning site.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply:
Please provide a cover letter, resume and Maritime Aquarium application (maritimeaquarium.org and click on join our team) to rlombardi@maritimeaquarium.org. Please put SESE in your subject line.