Jobs & Internships

Position Title: Director of Programs
Department: Conservation/Education/Exhibits
Reports to: Executive Director
Pay Range: $55-70K
Employee Category: Full Time, Exempt

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Director of Programs (DP) will develop, implement, direct, and evaluate the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) education, camp, conservation and exhibit programs. The position exercises a working knowledge of technology specific to perform the job including MS Office and Event/Registration software. The ability to multi-task is essential and excellent independent work skills are required. The DP is responsible for program/project logistics, volunteer management, program/project -specific fund development, and program/project monitoring and evaluation. A good attitude about working outdoors in a variety of conditions and the ability to lift at least 50lbs are essential. The position will work with their employees, peer teams, and volunteers to develop/implement standard operating procedures within their departments.

The position must demonstrate the ability to interact professionally with the public, board of directors, MDC staff and volunteers. The individual must be a good team player and be willing to assist in other departments. The ability to establish working partnerships inside and outside the organization is essential. The position is expected to participate in most special events and fundraising activities. The DP must be able to work independently, with limited supervision.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

The DP will work with staff and volunteers to delegate roles and responsibilities. To be successful in the role, the DP will create a strong culture of communication, teamwork, and a collaborative working relationship. This includes responding to staff and volunteers in a timely manner, assisting with planning and executing training events, communicating expectations and responsibilities, handling all incidents or accidents involving MDC Program staff, volunteers, and/or program participants, maintaining a positive environment, and managing programs/projects to achieve project goals efficiently.

In addition, the DP will also work with the executive director and other organizational leaders to evaluate and grow the earned revenue programs at MDC. These include enhancing and expanding existing programs/projects and developing new programs/projects that serve the mission and generate revenue. In addition, the DP will work with the executive director and other organizational leaders to generate funds through grants and development efforts that help support non-revenue generating programs/projects.

The DP will also develop, implement, direct, and evaluate the programs listed below. The scope and priority of this list may change based on organizational needs.

Education Programs
MDC offers Pre-K through University level educational programs. These marine science-based programs are delivered in a way that encourages learning through hands-on and feet-wet activities. MDC education programs highlight the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem and the flora and fauna within. MDC programs are offered in a variety of settings including boats (pontoon and kayaks), classrooms, trails, public events, and a variety of aquatic and upland coastal habitats.

Camp Programs
MDC offers day camps during the school year and summer breaks. These action-packed science-based camps encourage learning through hands-on, feet-wet activities including, kayaking, seine netting, fishing, surfing, boating, and snorkeling, as well as opportunities to discover nature through art in our eco-focused art camp. MDC day camps highlight the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem and the plants and animals that call it home. Additional offsite field trips are also part of the day camp experience.

Community Programs

In addition to Education and Camp programs, MDC offers additional program opportunities for the public, clubs, civic organizations, and other groups. This includes but is not limited to homeschool classes, preschool classes, and family-oriented programs.

Exhibits/Exhibit Programs

MDC maintains a variety of indoor and outdoor dry and wet exhibits and associated interpretative signage to educate the visitors and program participants. MDC also has plans to expand the # of dry and wet exhibits and associated exhibit programs.

Interpretive Programs

MDC offers a variety of interpretive programs including boat, kayak, education, camp, conservation science, and exhibits. Interpretative programs are designed to convey our mission and empower visitors and program participants to help protect and restore our coastal ecosystems.

Restoration Programs

Shuck & Share: MDC works with community partners to coordinate an oyster shell recycling program. This involves maintaining and growing partnerships including restaurants, Waste Pro, universities, government and non-government organizations and volunteers.

Property Maintenance/Enhancements: staff and volunteers work together to remove invasive species and create and maintain native plant gardens throughout the Marine Discovery Center leased property.

Conservation Science

MDC works with partners and volunteers to collect scientific data on water quality, horseshoe crabs, living shorelines, and microplastics.

OTHER RELATED FUNCTIONS

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of MDC’s mission and the strategic vision of the organization
• Comply with MDC Employee Handbook guidelines and expectations
• Prepare newsletter articles as requested
• Attend and/or participate in special fund-raising events at MDC as requested by Executive Director
• Participate in outreach speaking presentations as requested
• Clean and maintain grounds and facilities as needed
• Attend internal committee and staff meetings as required
• Assumes responsibility for professional growth and development
• All other duties as assigned by Executive Director

WORK HOURS

The DP typically works 40 hours a week or more depending on organizational needs. Schedule can vary but a typical schedule is 9AM-5PM, Monday-Friday. Occasional evenings and weekends will be required.

EDUCATION/TRAINING

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, or Education preferred or five years of work-related experience as an equivalent
• A background in K-12 education in either a classroom or an informal environmental education setting is preferred, but not required.
• Computer Skills: Microsoft Office Suite, Registration/Database management software

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

• Must have excellent interpersonal, communication and organization skills to interact professionally with the public, MDC Board of Directors, MDC staff, and volunteers.
• Must be a good team player and able to establish working partnerships inside and outside the organization.
• Must demonstrate excellent initiative, creativity, problem-solving and independent work skills.
• Must have a positive attitude, enjoyment of the outdoors, customer service experience, and an ability to deliver environmental education programs to both children and adults.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sufficient strength and mobility to move about the facility and grounds, on and off boats
• Assist students, volunteers, and guests
• Move educational equipment (lift at least 50 lbs.)
• Corrected vision and hearing in the normal range
• This position requires both field and office tasks, therefore the applicant must be able to work in an estuarine environment including wading in water, walking on trails and kayaking. The individual must be able to work in sometimes adverse conditions that include rain, heat, insects, etc.

EXPOSURE TO HAZARDS

Many MDC operations involve being on, in or near water. Additionally, chemicals are used for various laboratory tests, in aquaria and in restoration work. All safety protocols must be followed.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

You must submit the following documents to be considered for the position:
1) Cover letter
2) Resume

All documents must be submitted to Laura Stapleton by email at [email protected]. Position is open until filled.

Position Title: Marketing and Development Coordinator
Department: Marketing and Development
Reports to: Director of Marketing
Pay Range: $17.00-$19.00/hour
Employee Category: Full Time, Non-exempt

POSITION OVERVIEW

With a commitment to environmental conservation and nature-based education, the marketing and development coordinator will play an integral role in supporting Marine Discovery Center’s marketing and revenue goals by working with staff, volunteers, board members, program participants and donors to generate original content for distribution through a variety of channels including internal and external publications, website, blog, social media and other media outlets. Candidate will further strengthen the department by assisting with special projects, events, prospect research, and other tasks as assigned, as well as coordinate and oversee logistics for MDC’s bi-monthly point-of-entry tour. The ideal candidate will possess excellent written and visual communication skills; knowledge of social media best practices; and experience using online tools and software. Photography, graphic design, and video editing skills are highly desired.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Marketing/Communications

• Generate, edit, publish and share daily content (original text, images, video) to build meaningful connections, communicate impact and encourage community involvement in support of overall marketing and fundraising strategies
• Educate the public on all educational opportunities and programs offered by MDC, including boat and kayak tours, camps and school programs and public lectures
• Coordinate interviews with past and current program participants, employees, partners, and donors to generate dynamic, original content for use in social media, blog, website, newsletter, and other media outlets
• Ensure social component is executed during all marketing/fundraising campaigns and events
• Under the guidance of supervisor, work strategically to update editorial and content calendars based on program and organizational needs
• Monitor and manage social activity (comments, mentions, and shares) regularly
• Establish and maintain consistent branded message and voice throughout all initiatives
• Report on results of social media marketing efforts, including recommendations based on analysis
• Research online news sources for mission-related content
• Support marketing, development and public relations efforts as needed
• Coordinate cause-related marketing initiatives
• Provide support at tabling events and other community outreach activities in collaboration with volunteer coordinator and other program staff
  

Development/Fundraising:

• In collaboration with database coordinator, consistently update and execute donor cultivation and stewardship plan
• Assist with special events/projects where needed
• Assist in researching prospective individual and corporate donors from external and internal sources; develop in-depth donor profiles
• Oversee bi-monthly point-of-entry tour including promotion, RSVPs, securing meal sponsors, post-event follow-up and execution of next-steps
• Adhere to the AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards and comply with all laws—national, state, and local—regarding fundraising on behalf of MDC

Human Resources

• Assure that any incident or accident involving staff, volunteers, visitors or campers is handled appropriately, including completion of an MDC Incident Report per the MDC Risk Management Program Manual procedures
• Maintain good teamwork and public relations to insure program efficiency and effectiveness
• Comply with MDC Employee Handbook guidelines and expectations
• Attend internal committee and staff meetings as required
• All other duties as assigned by supervisor

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

• Must possess excellent interpersonal communication skills and be comfortable working with the general public, MDC Board of Directors, MDC staff, and volunteers
• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or nonprofit management or minimum 3 years equivalent work experience in a nonprofit marketing and/or fund development office
• Highly organized and detail-oriented; ability to work on multiple projects and prioritize tasks based on immediacy
• Must be a good team player and able to establish working partnerships inside and outside the organization
• Must demonstrate excellent initiative, creativity, problem-solving and independent working skills
• A commitment to understand, support and convey the mission, vision and values of Marine Discovery Center
• Experience with donor management software ideal

DESIRED SKILLS and/or CERTIFICATIONS

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience working with a variety of design programs including Adobe InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop, as well as Canva

WORK HOURS

Monday through Friday: 9am – 5pm; Occasional weekends and evenings will be required

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sufficient strength and mobility to move about the facility and grounds, on and off boats, assist students, volunteers and guests
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds

EXPOSURE TO HAZARDS

Many MDC operations involve being on, in or near water. Additionally, chemicals are used for various laboratory tests, in aquaria and in restoration work. All safety protocols must be followed.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

You must submit the following documents to be considered for the position:
1) Cover letter
2) Resume

All documents must be submitted to Tracie Morris, Director of Marketing, by email at t[email protected]. Position is open until filled.

Position Title: Coastal Naturalist/Mate
Department: Boat Operations/Education
Reports to: Boat Operations Coordinator/Education Coordinator
Salary Range: $12.50 plus tips
Status: Part Time – Non Exempt

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Coastal Naturalist/Mate position works in a variety of informal education settings including the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) “DISCOVERY”, a 40-foot, 40-passenger vessel, a fleet of kayaks, classrooms, exhibit areas and the outdoors to deliver marine science-based, hands-on, feet-wet educational programs. The Coastal Naturalist/Mate is responsible for the safety and well-being of all guests while providing informal education tours/programs like field trips. He/she will assist the Captain in all related boat functions and is responsible for all required narration during MDC boat, kayak and educational programs. He/she is also responsible for all equipment required to conduct these programs. The Coastal Naturalist/Mate is a representative of the Marine Discovery Center and will adhere to all MDC policies.

WORK HOURS

As needed; some weekend work-related activities may be required.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Education/Training
B.A. or B.S. in Environmental Science, Biology or Education, or five years of work-related experience as an equivalent.
Certification as a Florida Coastal Naturalist is preferred (must be obtained within the first 18 months of employment)

Experience
Boat handling and leading environmental education/interpretation experience recommended.

Interpersonal Skills

The Coastal Naturalist/Mate must have excellent interpersonal, communication and organizational skills to interact professionally with MDC guests. The Coastal Naturalist/Mate must be a good team player able to establish working partnerships inside and outside the organization and be responsible for personal/professional growth and development. This position calls for excellent initiative, creativity, problem solving and independent work skills.

The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude, enjoyment of the outdoors, and an ability to deliver environmental education programs to both children and adults.

Technical Skills

The Coastal Naturalist/Mate must have a working knowledge of all safety equipment and some boat operating experience.

Physical Requirements

The Coastal Naturalist/Mate must have mobility and strength to perform all required functions of DISCOVERY, including but not limited to assisting guests on and off DISCOVERY and lifting/moving equipment up to 50 lbs. This position requires both field and classroom tasks, therefore the applicant must be able to work in an estuarine environment, including wading in water, walking on trails and kayaking. The individual must be able work in sometimes-adverse conditions that include rain, heat, insects, etc.

Additional Requirements

A pre-requisite to employment will be a criminal background check per the Volusia County School Board Jessica Lunsford Act.

All Coastal Naturalists/Mates are members of the Maritime Consortium and are therefore subject to random drug testing.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

You must submit the following documents to be considered for the position:
1) Cover letter
2) Resume
3) Three Professional References

All documents must be submitted to Carley Metcalf, Education Coordinator, by email at [email protected].

CONSERVATION SCIENCE INTERNSHIP

Marine Discovery Center (MDC) is looking for a driven, team-oriented student to assist with ongoing conservation science projects with a focus on shoreline restoration and the Shuck & Share program. The student will be expected to work on site at MDC to complete tasks as requested by coordinators. The student will work a minimum of 8 hours a week and a maximum of 20 hours a week on tasks unless otherwise discussed by coordinators and the student. The student will not be expected to work during official holidays or into fall semester, unless further organized between student and MDC staff.

TASKS

Shuck and Share

• Assist specialist with general needs
  • Establishing new volunteer networks
  • Assist/facilitate unit creation events
  • Obtain new restaurant partners
  • Order supplies and materials
• Assist in maintaining restaurant participation in Volusia County.
• Assist coordinator with volunteer shoreline restoration and bagging events
• Assist with updates to grant paperwork

Restoration Plant Nursery

• Assist in the coordination of infrastructure, logistics, and implementation of the Spartina / mangrove nursery at MDC
  • Assist with ordering supplies and materials
  • Maintain infrastructure for a healthy nursery
  • Assist in establishing volunteer network and facilitate events
  • Work with marketing department to create public education materials
  • Assist with administrative tasks and paperwork

Citizen Science

• Assist in the coordination of logistics and implementation of the Citizen Science Programs at MDC
  • Establish volunteer network and facilitate events
  • Assist with ordering supplies and materials
  • Create a dataset and plan for interpretation
  • Collaborate with marketing department to create public education materials

DURATION

Semester by semester basis, with the knowledge that this student has potential to work with MDC for the duration of their academic experience.

REQUIREMENTS

• At least 18 years old
• Reliable transportation
• Availability during the entire semester 20hrs/wk
• Proficient in Microsoft Office

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

Must have excellent interpersonal, communication and organizational skills and the ability to work well with the general public, volunteers, and staff. Must also be able to carry out tasks independently and with limited supervision.

The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude, enjoyment of the outdoors, and an ability to deliver environmental education programs to both children and adults.

ESSENTIAL TECHNICAL/MOTOR SKILLS

Ability to perform all essential functions

ESSENTIAL MENTAL ABILITIES

Competent to perform all essential functions

ESSENTIAL SENSORY REQUIREMENTS

Ability to visually and audibly perform essential functions

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Sufficient mobility and strength to move about the facility, on and off of boats, assist students and customers, work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, move equipment (lift at least 50 lbs.), and have corrected vision and hearing in the normal range

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Intern should be comfortable with working in a team on a rotating schedule and have excellent time management skills
• Previous field work experience preferred but not required
• Interest in the projects listed above is required
• Experience conducting scientific surveys and managing/analyzing datasets preferred
• This is an unpaid internship. The intern will be responsible for their own housing and transportation.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

You must submit the following documents to be considered for the position:
1) Cover letter
2) Resume

All documents must be submitted to Tess Sailor-Tynes, Conservation Science Coordinator, by email at [email protected]